March 19, 2008 DRAFT
The Board of Finance held a special meeting on this date at the Police Department meeting room. Members present were Glenn Frishman, Chairman; Andrew Rines, Secretary; John O’Brien; Dudley Wheeler; Bryan Bentz and Kevin Burns. Also present Town Hall, Board of Education and Police Department staff and residents.
Mr. Frishman called the meeting to order at 7:30 p.m.
Budget deliberations
Mr. Frishman recognized Mrs. Smith and Mr. Cary of the BOE who asked the Board to reconsider the cuts to the proposed budget. The stated that New programming of $177,000 would disappear and an additional $123,000 would come from the foundation.
Chief J. Darren Stewart spoke in support of maintaining the one Police officer and part time dispatcher. He stated that with the growth in the Town along with building, tourists and increased medical calls he believes these positions are critical to maintain public safety. He confirmed that there are currently 36 sworn personnel and 3 reserves. Captain Jerry Desmond mentioned the E911 grant funding as an option to supplement the dispatcher. Members unanimously agreed to the decision of no new positions for FY 08-09.
The following adjustments were made
Department of First Selectman
Town Clerk & Tax Collector salary Add $ 5129.
Police
Police Officer Cut $ 56,428.
Dispatcher Cut $ 21,042.
Administrative Services
Community Development Cut $33,000.
BOE
Operating Budget Add $123,000.
Capital Improvement
Seawall Borough Add $ 20,000.
Classroom furniture Cut $ 9,999.
Tiling/Carpet-District wide Cut $ 10,000.
Mr. Burns moved that the Board recommend to Public Hearing a budget totaling $55,745,050. This would carry a 15.80 mil rate. Mr. O’Brien seconded and voting was unanimous.
There being no further business to come before the Board, Mr. Burns made a motion to adjourn. Mr. Wheeler seconded the motion and the meeting was unanimously adjourned at 8:15 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Andrew W. Rines
lp Secretary
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