Whately School Committee Faces Budget Increase and Potential Staff Reductions

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Whately School Committee confronted a projected 5.57% increase in the upcoming fiscal year 2022 budget, leading to concerns over potential staff reductions. The committee discussed the financial implications of this increase, debating whether to use federal funds to mitigate the impact or conserve them for future needs. They also tackled the potential addition of a math interventionist position and the long-term effects on the budget, along with other issues such as proposed tax cuts, the principal’s departure, and the cost of composting and duct cleaning at the school.

Whately Select Board Approves Consulting Contract Amid Assessor Retirement

Overview: The Whately Select Board recently held a meeting addressing significant town matters, including the approval of a consulting contract for assessing services, budget discussions for various departments, and considerations for capital expenses. The board approved a $40,000 contract with a consulting company to provide assessing services following the retirement of the current assessor, Cynthia. This decision was made due to the difficulty in finding a suitable replacement with the necessary assessing experience.

Whately Board of Assessors Considers Hiring Consultant Amidst Staffing Challenges

Overview: The Whately Board of Assessors is facing a challenge in staffing, which was the primary focus of their recent meeting. The difficulty in filling the assistant assessor position has led the board to consider hiring a consultant, potentially initiating a 13% budget increase for the upcoming fiscal year. Among the six applicants interviewed for the assistant assessor role, five have declined the offer, leaving only one candidate who lacks sufficient experience in real estate and assessing. The board is now leaning towards employing the services of RRG, a consultant from Leominster, MA, who currently holds contracts with around 30 other communities in the state.

Whately Personnel Committee Discusses Critical Town Employment Policies

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Whately Personnel Committee tackled issues surrounding town employment policies, including the definition and application of “appointing authority,” the need for a comprehensive technology policy, compensation and break period regulations, and the salaries for specific positions such as the animal inspector and community development director. The committee also decided on a recommendation for a 3% cost-of-living adjustment (Cola) to the finance committee and select board.

Whately Select Board Deliberates Center School’s Future

Overview: The Whately Select Board recently convened to discuss several issues, with the future of the Center School building taking center stage. Amidst a debate over whether to accept a proposal for the building’s use or to request an extension for further planning, concerns about the building’s condition, financial feasibility of proposals, and compliance with municipal laws were prominent. The board requested extensions from the RFP submitters to allow for more informed decision-making.