Minutes
Board of Selectmen
Monday, October 22, 2007
Work Session
Location: Eastham Town Hall
Present: Linda Burt, Chair
Martin McDonald, Vice Chair
David Schropfer, Clerk
Kenelm Collins
Carol Martin
Sheila Vanderhoef, Town Administrator
Selectman Burt called the meeting to order at 2:05 p.m.
FY 09 Budget Policy
Selectman Schropfer suggested sending a letter to the Nauset Regional School District (NRSD) Budget Subcommittee outlining the Town’s budgetary position. Selectman Martin noted that she does not want to interject into the school budget excessively. Selectman Schropfer informed the Board that Michael Gradone, Superintendent of Schools, informed the attendees of the NRSD Budget Subcommittee meeting that enrollment in the Charter School is no longer affecting enrollment in the Nauset District. Mr. Gradone added that he also has a plan in place for when Truro and Provincetown students begin enrolling in the NRSD.
Selectman Martin suggested under the “staffing” section of the policy that no new positions be created in the next year. Ms. Vanderhoef noted that filling vacancies should be on a case-by-case basis. Selectman Martin suggested allowing the Board to review the vacancies before filling them. Selectman Martin also added that there should be no new programs initiated unless there is a tradeoff of other programs. Selectman McDonald suggested requesting recommendations from the department heads outlining how they can potentially make their programs more efficient.
Selectman Schropfer noted that it is acceptable to use free cash in the Town’s operating budget for one year to avoid an override. Ms. Vanderhoef recommended placing more cash into the Stabilization Fund. She added that increased revenue may come from the fee increases that will go into effect at the beginning of Fiscal Year 2009, adding that current revenue has been consistent with the Town’s revenue predictions.
Russell French, Finance Committee, suggested having joint budget meetings. John Knight, Finance Committee Chair, recommended allowing the Finance Committee to become involved as early as possible in the budget process. Ms. Vanderhoef noted that the earliest the Finance Committee can get involved is when she presents the budget to the Selectmen.
Selectman Burt restated several points that the Board felt should be included in the budget policy as follows:
· No new staff positions in the next year;
· No override (if possible), and use free cash to avoid an override;
· Move cash into the Stabilization Fund;
· Investigate the fees at the Transfer Station and possible parking fees at Rock Harbor;
· Review capital plan and prioritize items within departmental budgets; and
· A level funded budget for the school district.
Ms. Vanderhoef noted that she will draft the policy, which can be edited by the Board as necessary.
Selectman Collins left the meeting at 3:00 p.m.
Bellamy’s Keno License
The Board reviewed the application for a Keno license from Bellamy’s Restaurant located at the Sheraton Four Points to the State Lottery Commission. They stated that they had no problems with the application as presented.
Comcast Contract Renewal
Ms. Vanderhoef noted that as a renewal with Comcast is considered, certain terms to match the other towns’ agreements be considered. Selectman Schropfer also noted that the end date of the contract is not in line with the other towns. Selectman McDonald added that Eastham needs to emphasize consistency in the draft contracts from Comcast, based on their contracts with other Towns.
Selectman Schropfer made a motion at 3:20 p.m. to go into Executive Session for the purpose of negotiations, and not to return to Public Session. The motion was seconded by Selectman McDonald. Selectmen Burt, yes; Selectmen McDonald, yes; Selectmen Schropfer, yes; Selectman Martin, yes.
Respectfully Submitted,
Krystal M. Boyd
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