The administration is tasked with crafting a supplemental budget that aligns with the intentions of the tax measures.

A point of discussion was the staffing reductions report due by December 15, which will play a role in informing the upcoming budget cycle. The committee underscored the need to focus on staffing roles rather than individual performances in the report.

The meeting also addressed operational and logistical concerns related to the district’s after-school and vocational education programs. The committee examined the challenges posed by staffing shortages in after-school care, specifically the reliance on a fluctuating workforce primarily composed of college students. This reliance raised concerns about maintaining consistent student-to-staff ratios, which are important for ensuring student safety and program effectiveness. Members discussed potential solutions, including engaging high school football players post-season to supplement staffing.

Transportation logistics for after-school programs emerged as another significant issue. With the national bus driver shortage affecting the ability to transport students efficiently, the committee recognized the need to gather specific data to better inform future decisions, particularly as the bus contract renewal approaches. The dialogue highlighted the complexities involved in managing transportation needs alongside the evolving demands of families requiring after-school care.

Vocational education programs also featured prominently in the discussions, with the committee acknowledging the challenges linked to increased student interest and limited program capacity. The Medford Vocational Technical High School faces a consistent waitlist, particularly for high-demand programs like Auto Technology and Culinary Arts. The director highlighted ongoing efforts to accommodate students, noting the potential implementation of a seven-period schedule to optimize student opportunities. The conversation touched on the broader challenges of vocational school admissions statewide, with discussions around adopting a lottery-based system to promote equity.

Members expressed concerns about the perception of vocational education as a lesser option, emphasizing the need for better communication with parents to dispel myths and highlight the pathways vocational programs offer toward both college and career readiness. The committee acknowledged the importance of engaging parents through informational sessions to help them understand the breadth and impact of vocational options available to their children.

In addition to programmatic discussions, the committee addressed infrastructure and planning initiatives. Mayor Breanna Lungo-Koehn led a discussion on authorizing construction management at risk services for the Mlin School complex and the Andrews Middle School HVAC upgrade project. This authorization will facilitate the signing of necessary contracts, promoting collaboration between design and construction teams to ensure successful project execution. After addressing legal concerns, the motion to approve the resolution passed unanimously.

The meeting concluded with procedural matters, including the presentation of a draft fiscal year 2026 budget calendar. The budget analyst proposed minor adjustments to the timeline, aimed at extending the period for gathering budget information and better aligning with the city’s budget ordinance and capital improvement plan timelines. The committee recognized the importance of coordinating with the city council to maintain budgetary alignment and avoid potential complications.