During the meeting, the committee examined the budget in detail, noting that the general fund’s contribution would be $5,631,505. The discussion revealed an increase in the budget primarily due to transparency moves, such as including previously off-ledger items like the vice principal’s salary in the general budget. Members also sought to clarify whether the Select Board would accept the budget as presented.

One point of discussion was the school choice tuition, with the committee noting that the figures could fluctuate before final approval. The local school transportation budget was discussed, with a 5% increase over the previous year assumed, pending the finalization of the contract. Concerns were raised about the lack of a contract on file with the town accountant, which could potentially halt payments to the transportation provider if not resolved promptly.

The committee reviewed changes to various line items, including salaries for assistant principals, teachers, paraprofessionals, and custodial staff. Adjustments were made to reflect ratified contracts and to ensure all salaries were adequately funded from the general budget, not from school choice funds.

Vocational tuition was another topic of interest, as the committee anticipated a likely decrease in costs based on acceptance rates, which could positively affect the overall budget.

The committee expressed confidence that the general budget would not require an override and that any debt exclusions would be project-specific and not impact the general budget. The upcoming joint meeting with the Finance and Select Board was highlighted as a critical next step in reviewing revenue and solidifying the budget.

Finally, the committee addressed the school calendar as a pending item, revealing frustration over the delayed receipt of a contract from a service provider. The lack of response to repeated requests for the contract raised concerns about the implications for the budget and the potential need to stop payments to the provider.