BOE Budget discussions

Yesterday, the head of the Enfield Republican town committee posted an article about the BOE budget presentation on Tuesday, January 27th. I heartily agree with Ms.Hemmeler that our community needs to be informed about the budget. The more that our neighbors understand the needs of our students, staff and facilities, the more they are likely to support the budget as requested by the superintendent and board. I encourage everyone to watch the meeting, and all BOE and TC meetings, on the EnfieldTV YouTube channel. Even better, if able, come to the meetings and speak during public comments to ensure that our representatives have feedback from townspeople.

In Ms.Hemmeler's article she made several statements that, at best, were presented out of context and thus are misleading. When she mentions Mr.Kober's comments, she follows with "no response followed." That would lead one to think that what Mr.Kober was asking for was ignored. However, Mr.Moccio did state during his presentation that the budget book contained a complete break-down of expenditures being proposed. He also stated that the budget was constructed from a zero baseline and a view that every expense that had been requested by staff they had to give justification for the need. It is not simply a carry forward of what each section was last year with a standard % increase added on. Chair Pickett made it clear that questions were more than welcome, but requested they be sent through her so they could be collated and submitted to the Superintendent en masse for efficiency and to prevent duplication. I asked Chair Pickett if the question list, and answers, would be shared with all BOE members. She replied yes and that it helps ensure transparency.

Regarding the MOU termination, Chair Pickett clarified at the beginning of the discussion that meetings with the town to monitor spending would continue and that the findings of the audit, which are being followed, would continue to be followed. Mr.Kober had simply reiterated the already answered questions, thus further discussion was not needed.

The additional funding the TC just provided is another area where Ms.Hemmeler's article muddies the water. While Mr.Anderson and Mr.Kober are correct in clarifying if the amount will impact the MBR, the number below which the budget can't fall, it is important to keep that amount in perspective. While every cent counts to the taxpayer, me included, the amount is less than 0.36% of the budget. No, we don't want it wasted, but it isn't a massive impact. Regarding the way the Superintendent has chosen to use the funds, he is doing so in a way that aligns with the recommendations of the audit. The 5th grade music teacher is in the upcoming year's budget, so it isn't a fund for a moment item that will create a "cliff" next year. The remainder of the money is being used to replace broken or well beyond useable life equipment, a one-time expense. Mr.Kober's comments that the funds should better come from the non-lapsing account or fund more staff flies in the face of the concerns he previously mentioned about continuing to follow the guidelines suggested by the audit.

Again, I suggest people watch the meetings so they can form their own opinions of what was said and the accuracy of commentary put forward by others, mine included. If we all come to the discussions in good faith, the discussion has a better chance of being fruitful.