Southampton School Committee Faces Budget Shortfall Amid Staffing Challenges and Calendar Disputes

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Southampton School Committee grappled with budgetary challenges, staffing issues, and debated calendar changes. The committee discussed a potential $1.2 million override to address a looming financial shortfall. The budget concerns were exacerbated by recent increases in insurance rates and the failure of a budget override, forcing the town to identify additional funding sources to fill a $600,000 gap.

Confusion Over Property Sale Sparks Intense Debate at Southampton Planning Board Meeting

Overview: During the Southampton Planning Board meeting on August 6, the most contentious issue centered around a property transaction on Maple Street that seemed to bypass standard planning procedures, prompting discussion among board members. Among other topics, the board also addressed financial constraints impacting consulting services, solar installation permits, and the revision of the town’s Open Space and Recreation Plan.

Southampton Faces Water Department Staffing and Compensation Challenges Amid Fiscal Concerns

Overview: During a recent meeting of the Southampton Select Board, issues regarding the water department’s staffing and compensation took center stage. The board approved a new overtime compensation policy for the department, which is grappling with understaffing and competitive pay challenges. The approved policy, set to expire on December 31, 2025, aims to address the immediate needs of the department, which currently employs only two staff members. The approved policy stipulates that qualified employees working weekends will receive a minimum of four hours of overtime pay at one and a half times their regular rate for hours exceeding 40 in a week. However, these employees must perform their duties for the entire four-hour period or be considered on-call if work is insufficient.

Southampton Select Board Faces Crisis in Treasurer’s Office Amid Staff Turnover

Overview: During the Southampton Select Board meeting on July 8, 2025, the town’s financial operations emerged as a primary concern due to significant staff changes in the treasurer’s office. The board discussed the resignation of two key figures, Treasurer Collector Jennifer Day and Assistant Treasurer Collector Angela Baldick, which has left the office in what officials termed a “mini crisis mode.” The board addressed the immediate need to stabilize the department to ensure continuity of essential municipal functions.

Southampton Select Board Tackles Budget Shortfalls Amid Calls for Financial Review

Overview: The Southampton Select Board meeting on June 30th focused heavily on budgetary concerns, with discussions surrounding a large projected deficit in the school department’s budget, the management of special education funding, and strategic financial planning for upcoming fiscal years. The board also debated personnel changes in the treasurer collector department and addressed a land conservation grant application.