A joint meeting of the Regional School Committee, Essex and Manchester BOS, Essex and Manchester FinCom convened at 8:14 PM in the MERHS.
Members present: Bothwick, Herbster, Kenney, Martin and Sullivan
Members absent: Carr, Croft, and Putnam
Ms. Beckman, MERSC Chairman presided.
SCHOOL BUILDING PROJECT – Report from Ms. Creighton
- The project is 64% complete; may be occupied at 88% complete
- Current issues include:
- Tennis courts
- Settlement with DEP – zone 1 of well
- Professional license
- The loss of certification by the general contractor does not affect the project
- Economy- continue to operate on the guaranteed price
- Staffing levels are monitored daily
- Qualified for MSBA funding – anticipate short term borrowing up to $14 million
- Received grants for green design, photovoltaic and energy efficiency
- Budget commitment is not overextended
- Scheduled to move in September 2009
- $72,000 of damages at the Coach Ed Field Park has been credited to the project
PUBLIC HEARING ON F’10 SCHOOL OPERATING BUDGET – Report from Superintendent O’Neil
Uncontrollable costs that are escalating include health insurance, utilities, SPED, negotiated contract, and the impact of the new building.
The impact of the new building includes:
- $10, 000 - .2 special ed teacher
- $115,000 – contracted custodial services
- $350,000 – utility costs; additional square footage and increases rates
The impact of one time expenses includes:
- $20,000 – HS accreditation
- $8,000 - costs related to the move
- Other costs – related to the contract budget
The impact of increasing needs:
- Increased enrollment at the elementary level
- Proposing an additional pre school class
The School will need to do some short term debt borrowing in March, and expects some additional reimbursement from MSBA.
The Stabilization Fund is expected to be $167,290 at the end of F’09.
CPC – Mr. Herbster MOVED “to have Lars Swanson represent the FinCom on the CPC”. The MOTION WAS UNANIMOUSLY ADOPTED.
The meeting adjourned at 9:12 PM.
Respectfully submitted,
Judith Sabella, Clerk
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