Budget Committee

Minutes

January 7, 2006

Official as of May 30, 2006

Chairman Daniel McNally calls the public session to order at 9:15 a.m.

PRESENT: Chairman Daniel McNally, Selectman Representative Scott Bryer, School Board Representative Steve Foley, Ben Edwards, Robert Bailey, Robert Jean, Shelley Bobowski, Mark Edwards, Board Administrator Linda Smith and Board Secretary Lisa Fellows-Weaver. John Jacobsmeyer arrives at 10:30.

ABSENT: Richard Gendron, Douglas Briggs, and Cindy Bryer are excused.

PUBLIC PRESENT: Kate McNally, Bunny Behm, Ginger Dole, Selectman Lucy Edwards, and Ed Hanrahan.

Bob Bailey makes a motion, second by Ben Edwards, to accept Nona Holmes as a member to the budget committee. Motion passes unanimously, 7/0.

Ms. Holmes is sworn in as a budget committee member by Selectman Lucy Edwards.

ELECTION OF VICE-CHAIR:

Mr. McNally states that Vice-Chairman Tom Chase had to resign as he is now an employee of the school.

Mr. Bryer nominates Bob Jean who declines the nomination as he feels that he is too new to the committee and process. Shelley Bobowski is nominated for vice-chair by Bob Jean. Bob Jean makes a motion, second by Bob Bailey, to nominate Shelley Bobowski as Vice-Chairman for the budget committee. Motion passes unanimously, 7/0.

SCHOOL BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT:

Principal Dr. John Crist, Assistant Principal Barbara Gendron, Superintendent Judy McGann, Bookkeeper Betsy Colburn, School Board Vice Chair Bernice Raffaele, Special Education Director Debbie Cohen, and Business Administrator Kathleen Sargeant.

SCHOOL PUBLIC HEARING:

School Board Chairman Steve Foley thanks all present for attending the meeting. He explains that the proposed budget is a work in progress. He provides an overview of the budget. Mr. Foley explains that the school board is waiting on the actual percent of increase for Coe-Brown Northwood Academy, tuition (CBNA). He adds that they have received a not to exceed 10% from CBNA this year and the school board replied that they would like to see this come back around 5%. He states that the school board has applied 8% in the budget. CBNA will have final figures in by 1/15. 

General discussions are held regarding the following departments:

Dept. 1100~Regular Education:

Page 1: Line: 1100-120-20.3~Gifted and Talented Salaries:

Mr. Foley explains that the school board has agreed to add in $7500. for this program and this needs to be entered into the line and the budget. All other numbers are the same through this section.

Page 1-3: Dept. 1100~Total Regular Education:

Mr. Foley states that the proposed total is $5,229,402.78, which is an increase of $275,847.34 from last year. He notes that the biggest increase is CBNA. Ms. Behm states that the CBNA figures are an estimate. 

Ms. Behm states that the CBNA trustees are working hard on the budget. The problem this year is that over the past two years they have kept the budget low and the biggest reasons for the increases is that there has not been the expected growth. Additional expenses would be absorbed by the extra students such as; salaries, benefits, and utilities. She explains that 48,000 gallons of oil is used for all buildings over the course of the year. She adds that the reassessment of properties this year is a factor too as that increase drives tuition rates. Further discussion is held regarding pre buying of oil. Scott Bryer states that the town is tax exempt for fuels. Mr. Foley states that it will review this option.

Page 3-5: Dept. 1200~Special Education:

Mr. Foley refers to page 4 and states that the school board proposed number needs to change to match the SAU’s proposed amount of $747,209. He explains that two aide positions are being eliminated. He states that all departments were asked to reduce their budget by 2% and share some of the burden to reduce the budget. He states that with the personnel and the number of students, the job will still get done and the kids will still get the care.

Ms. McNally asks for clarification regarding the budget layout of the proposed budget. Mr. Foley explains that this is the difference of the school board proposal and the current budget. The proposed is the administration’s proposal to the school board; the school board created their own numbers.

Mr. Foley states that the SAU’s proposed total of $2,013,534.57 is now changed to $2,055,434.27. This is a school board difference of $315,861.17. Ms. Dole states that this is a big difference and requests specific area that increased. Mr. Foley explains that the biggest increase is special education from CBNA, which is an increase of $66,000. Special Ed Non Public School/Out of District Placement is up $160,000 over last year. Ms. Cohen explains that there are more students, more out of district placements and more intense needs. She explains that there are more students projected out of district for next year and the out of district costs are higher for next year. Out of district placements are projected to be 11 students. Further discussion is held regarding other districts. Ms. McGann states that this is Northwood’s numbers and also includes preschool ages 3-5, which has increased due to upgrading and more support in child find, mandated by law. She explains that the SAU special ed board is making sure that the children in the 3 – 5 age group are receiving services prior to kindergarten. She adds that the SAU is applying for grants and is looking into reopening the Brookside school as an SAU preschool. She further explains that not every child receives the same amount of hours and there are different plans per child. Services are billed accordingly by the hour. Ms. McGann adds that the law requires transportation for preschool students.

Page 5: Dept. 1300~Vocational Programs:

Mr. Foley states that this is $10,012., which is an increase of $10,900. as there were no students involved with this last year. This is a vocational program that CBNA did not offer and this will cover up to the CBNA tuition amount.

Page 5-6: Dept. 1400~Co-Curricular Account:

Mr. Foley states that the total of $52,888.70 is an increase of $1,897.93.

Page 6: Dept. 1430~Summer School:

There are no changes proposed.

Page 6: Dept. 2110~Attendance:

There are no changes proposed. The $2. proposed is to keep the lines open.

Page 6-7: Dept. 2120~Guidance Services:

Mr. Foley states that the total is $80,649.85, which is an increase of $29,729.42. This is due to an additional part time guidance counselor position. Much discussion is held regarding the current guidance counselors position regarding the efforts, time involved, and students. Mr. Foley states that the figure proposed also includes the highest benefit package, as they can not determine what benefits the person will need until hired. Ms. McGann explains that this is established by using the existing salary of the full time guidance counselor less 50% but includes the benefits, taxes, FICA, etc. 

Ms. Dole asks what the IDIEA stand for. Ms. Cohen states that it is for Individuals With Disabilities Education and Improvement Act.

Page 7-8: Dept. 2130~Health Services:

Mr. Foley states that the total of $80,852.26 is an increase of $10.29. Ms. Behm asks if the figures shown are without raises. Mr. Foley states that on January 12 they are meeting with the teacher’s union representative. Salaries and benefits are listed at the current pay rates and levels. He explains that they are trying to rearrange the salary structures. Mr. Bryer states that the budget is on the low side. Ms. McGann states that they currently use Health Trust for their insurance agent and the SAU is working with each of the towns to try to encourage the towns group to be included into the SAU group. This may not give the school a lower rate but may lower the town’s rates. 

Mr. Foley further explains that the school board is currently looking into rearranging the steps to be equal. Further discussion is held regarding the increases of health insurance. Ms. McGann states that the numbers are estimated at an 18.8% increase. Mr. Foley states that it would not be any higher. Ms. McGann states that last year it was estimated to be 20% and ended up being 13%. Mr. Foley states that in the past the school board has tried to conserve on that line. Ms. Dole states that the tax payers have taken a bit hit this year with the assessment. She applauds the efforts so far and asks that the school board would please keep this in mind. Mr. Foley states that the school boards negotiating team has been doing a great job. He adds that they are trying to come up with a better way. Ms. Behm comments that if an agreement is reached for benefits, they will still need to give the teachers a raise. Mr. Foley states that the school board is trying to be fair to all employees and students.

Page 8-9: Dept. 2140~Special Contracted Services:

Mr. Foley states that the total is $122,732.57, which is an increase of $8,518.19.

Page 9: Dept. 2150~Speech Services:

Department total is $87,989.61, which is an increase of $327.34.

Page 9-10: Dept. 2210~Improvement of Instruction:

Department total is $34,888.19, which is an increase of $3685.24. 

Page 10-11: Dept. 2220~Library and Education Media Compensation:

Department total is $108,891.91, which is an increase of $4,264.60. 

Ms. Dole asks about the technology director’s position. Mr. Foley states that this position needs to be filled by June 2007. Ms. McGann states that this is a state mandate and explains that the state is requiring a standard level of expertise for computer technology. She states that this is recorded under the state’s standards. Mr. Bryer explains that if it is a state mandate then the state has to pay for it. Further discussion is held regarding federal requirements. Ms. McGann further addresses applying for grants and all mandates need to be met in order to receive grant money. Mr. Hanrahan states that something cannot be mandated by the state and not paid for. Ms. Dole agrees. 

Page 11: Dept. 2225/310~Contracted Services Internet Service:

Ginger Dole asks about the $3600. for this line and if internet is free. She refers to a letter from Metrocast that explains that internet is free to all public schools. Ms. McGann states that the money is for email services. The number of accounts is discussed. Mr. Hanrahan asks if MSN is free. Mr. Foley will check into this.

Page 12: Dept. 2310~School Board Services:

Mr. Foley states that this department total is $43,925.54, which is an increase of $10,388.60.

Ms. McNally refers to line 2310/119/10.1 and states that the school board member’s salaries have doubled in a year. She questions the timing of the increase. Mr. Foley understands and explains that the board is addressing this for this year as there have been significant amounts of added time with negotiations, meetings, etc. Members of the board have been meeting weekly during the day for 4-5 hours at a time. He adds that this has been for negotiations as well as for subcommittee for different issues. The original compensation was $1000. and is being proposed to increase to $3000. He adds that this amount is in line with the selectmen pay and other school districts. Mr. Foley states that the efforts of the board next year will be even more strenuous. Ms. McNally suggests that the amounts be introduced in smaller increments. Mr. Foley states that the amount of work has tripled and there are no signs of it slowing down. He states that he will bring this issue back to the school board. Mr. Hanarahan asks for an average amount of meetings per month. Mr. Foley replies that there are 4-5 meetings per month. Mr. Hanrahan feels that the pay is not very much for the board’s services. Bunny Behm explains that historically, the compensation was based on the idea of covering the taxes per year. Back in 1982 this was around $150. - $200. Ms. Dole agrees with both sides. She states that board members earn every penny; however, she agrees that this is a sudden increase and agrees with Ms. McNally that the increases should be in smaller increments.

10:30 a.m. Mr. Jacobsmeyer arrives and Chairman McNally calls for a recess. 10:40 a.m. session resumes. 

Page 12: Dept. 2321~SAU # 44:

Mr. Foley states that the department total is $246,427.099. This is an increase of $9635.75.

Page 12-14: Dept. 2410~Office of the Principal:

Mr. Foley states that the department total is $311,778.78. This is an increase of $16,593.71, which is due to health insurances and benefits.

Page 14: Dept. 2520~Office of School District Bookkeeper:

The department total is $78,954.63. This is an increase of $16,663.83, which is due to computer software expenses and for GASB 34. Mr. Bryer states that the town is requesting this software programming as well. Mr. Foley states that the software will provide better programming for payroll, and the town and school will be on the same system. He adds that this is also a security step that needs to be taken.

Ed Hanrahan asks if this is a one time increase. Mr. Foley replies yes and adds that the new software will save time. Mr. Hanrahan wants to know what the payback is for the investment. Ms. McGann replies that the software will be more efficient, more accurate, and require fewer hours to do the same work. Mr. Hanrahan states that he does not see what the return is for the investment. He asks if this will be a part of the budget. Ms. Sargeant further explains the program and adds that this will aid in people bringing materials home from the SAU and within the school. Selectman Edwards adds that in the future there will no longer be support available for the current software. She adds that this is not a choice; if something goes wrong with the software, it will not be useable. She further explains that this will allow the administration town to be more interactive with the assessing and town clerk/tax collector departments. Ms. Dole states that she supports updating the software. She asks if other districts and towns are on board with this software this year. Ms. Sargeant replies that the company has a good track record with support issues. She adds that larger districts are using this software and feel it is more efficient. Mr. Foley states that there will be no cutting of personnel or hours, as they will be reallocating of resources. Ms. McGann notes that this amount also includes four system upgrades. Ms. Sargeant states that the maintenance fees with be $1200. per year, which is only an estimate.

Page 15-17: Dept. 2600~Operation of Maintenance of Plant:

Mr. Foley states that the total for this department is $450,856.59. He explains that this is an increase of $33,683.82, which is due to utility costs for electricity and fuel oil. He adds that due to the increased use of electricity in the addition, the school was placed into a different bracket for utilities.

Page 17: Dept. 2700~Pupil Transportation Services:

The department total is $388,318.13. This increase of $14,850.69 is for special  ed transportation. Mr. Hanrahan asks why $10,000. is just for special ed. Ms. Sargeant states that the school will be going out to bid. Mr. Foley adds that this cost may include out of district expenses. Ms. McGann states that this amount is Northwood’s portion for all three communities. This is also for the summer, out of district placements, and mileage, which is high. She notes that these are specially equipped buses. 

Ms. McNally refers to line 2725/519/1~ Class Field Trips. She states that this line has been reduced by $7,854. to $4,500. She encourages the town boards and budget committee to put field trips back into the budget. Mr. Foley states that they do understand the educational values of field trips; they are not trying to eliminate these programs. He adds that they are trying to be more creative in how to pay for field trips so to maintain them but to reduce costs. 

Page 18: Dept. 2900~Workers Comp./Unemployment Comp:

Mr. Foley explains that they have removed these lines and placed them into the proper budget areas.

Page 18: Dept. 4000~Building Improvement Services:

Mr. Foley states that there are no new recommended projects in this area. The decrease is $6001. He explains that this is a carry over of lines from the school addition. These areas may need to be addressed again in the future.

Page 18-19: Dept. 5100~Debt Service:

Mr. Foley states the total for this department is $431,698.75, which is a decrease of $12,065.63. 

Page 19: Dept. 5200~Capital Reserves:

Mr. Foley states that these amounts should each be $25,000. This is for the potential to expand the school. He adds that they are anticipating a build up now so that it will be less when it comes out of undesignated surplus at the end of the year. Ms. Sargeant states that the total line for this department should not show $30,000. 

Total General Fund Operating Budget:

Mr. Foley states that the school’s total general fund operating budget is $9,819,996.68. This is an increase of $676,363.68 or 7.37% from last year.

Page 19-20: Dept. 3100~Food Services:

Mr. Foley states that this department’s total is $140,133., which is an increase of $10,377.89. This increase is due to benefits and health insurance.

Page 20: Budget Summary:

Total budget is amended to $9,960,099.85, which is an increase of 7.859%.

Ms. Smith requests that a spread sheet be provided from the school and the town of all employees, showing benefits for existing positions and projected positions, as well as health and dental insurances. A discussion is held regarding confidentiality. Ms. Smith then requests that only the position titles, with benefits that pertain to each position be provided.

Mr. Hanrahan asks about insurances. Mr. Bryer replies that there are no collective bargaining units for the town. He states that the single plan is 100% and 2 person or family is 85/15%. Mr. Hanrahan explains ratios that other companies provide.

Ms. Dole asks about enrollment. Mr. Foley replies that there are currently 476 students with 10 home schooled students. Enrollment has been up to 502 students including home schooled students.

Ms. McNally requests that the school board look at the science camp and AMC  night compensation for staff. She feels that these programs are a critical area and the staff should receive more than $50. 

Ms. Dole asks about 2140/310/5~ESL. Ms. McGann replies that every year there is an accountability piece. She explains that the progress made determines the amount of services needed. Any increase would be for a new student. She explains that the state tests have just changed this year and the test assesses both verbal and written. She adds that there are a total of 3 students in the elementary and high school that utilize this program.

Mr. Foley states that the school board will be meeting again 1/17. At that time the final numbers will be available from CBNA. Updated budget copies will be sent out after that meeting noting all final numbers.

Warrant Articles:

Mr. Hanrahan requests that the budget format show additional lines of information. Mr. Foley states that in the past, additional line items have been provided; however, the format has been small and difficult to read. He adds that they will take that request under advisement. 

Steve Foley provides an explanation of the proposed warrant articles. Discussions are held as follows:

1. Teacher’s Contracts: Mr. Foley states that this is currently being discussed so there is no final number at this time.

2. Special Meeting Authorization: Necessary should Article 1 fail.

3. School Operating Budget: Mr. Foley states that this article is the budget committee’s recommendation for statutory obligations of the district.

4. $25,000. Capital Reserve Fund– RSA Ch. 35: A discussion is held regarding this warrant article and how the money can be used. Mr. Foley states that there is approximately $125,000 in the fund now. He adds that this is for out of district placements and can only be used for special education. Mr. Hanrahan asks why this would not be placed back to the tax payers. Mr. Foley explains that there would be a need for a special town meeting for the town to approve monies if needed. Ms. McNally states that there must be a better way to pay for this without a warrant article. 

5. $25,000. Capital Reserve for Capital Improvements: Mr. Foley explains that this is for new construction. The current amount is $34,000.

6. $70,000. Special Education Capital Reserve Fund: Mr. Foley states that $129,000. is in the fund at this time.

7. To be deleted. Numbers of the following to be changed accordingly.

Existing articles 8, 9, and 10 do not have any money values.

Estimated Revenues:

A general discussion is held regarding the revenues. $727,000. subject to health insurance, tuition rates changing and possibly warrant articles. Ms. Dole states that it appears that if this budget is approved, the impact to the tax rate would be $1.80 without contracts. Ms. Sargeant explains that based on state aid, it appears that it will be a little less.

A discussion is held regarding grant writing. Ms. McGann states that the SAU has a grant writer who secured a total of $93,198. in grants just for Northwood. She adds that this does not include the SAU’s grant totals, which was $456,532.61, which is distributed three ways, to each district. The total amount of money received comes in at $820,861.05. She adds that this does not include the present grants that the SAU is waiting to see if they qualified for. Some are over $100,000. Mr. Hanrahan asks how many grants were received this year. Ms. McGann replies that this year there were 14 received. She is not sure how many grants were actually applied for. Mr. Foley adds that many grants do need to be re-written every year. 

With no further discussion, Mr. McNally closes the public portion of the school budget.

11:50 a.m. Mr. McNally calls for a recess for lunch.

SCHOOL WORK SESSION:

Session resumes at 1:07 p.m. Mark Edwards and John Jacobsmeyer are not present.

Shelley Bobowski reiterates Ms. Smith’s requests for a listing of teacher’s and support staff salaries and benefits. 

John Jacobsmeyer arrives at 1:12 p.m.

Ms. Bobowski asks about Line 1100-120-20.3~Gifted and Talented Salaries. Mr. Foley states that they have been working on this program for a few years. It has been incorporated within the enrichment program after school and the school would now like to expand this program. Dr. Crist states that they would like to combine grant money with the Town of Strafford for a part time coordinator between the two towns. Currently there is about $15,000 - $16,000. from grant money this year. He adds that this will be on a part time basis and will help coordinate enrichment within the day for students that need more during the day. It also includes acquiring additional grant money. He adds that they would work on enriching the course work, broaden existing subjects, and world languages, and bring this program into the school day rather than only after school. Ms. Bobowski replies that the school really needs this. She appreciates the efforts to implement this program and feels that an enrichment program is a key to giving the school a better attitude, for teachers and students. Much discussion continues regarding other school programs and grants that can be obtained. Mr. Bailey asks if this is for a salary. Dr. Crist explains that this is a contracted service and materials have been added into the budget. Dr. Crist states that the school is trying to enrich and advance students. He states that they are trying to do as much, for as many, as they can. He explains that there are a number of areas where they want to use the money to do things that have already been done in the after school clubs. No exact hours have been determined at this time. Mr. Foley explains that they are starting small and will build up the program, keep it economical, and use local people, volunteers, and internships. He adds that it may be possible to coordinate the curriculum with CBNA so that all students can benefit in all grades.

Mr. Bryer asks about Line 1100-563~Coe Brown Tuition and if the board is expecting the numbers to come down. Mr. Foley states that this could be slightly less and would change if the number of students changes. Mr. Foley states that 52 students are expected to graduate and 62 students are expected to move up. Additional discussion is held regarding the calculations of tuitions, benefits, salaries, and the increases of utilities this year. Mr. Foley explains that they are addressing the increases with CBNA. 

Line 1100-610-20~Enrichment Supplies:

Ms. Bobowski states that she has been involved with these types pf programs and feels that the programs are a catalyst for the enrichment that they are already receiving. Ms. Bobowski motions to increase the Enrichment Supplies line 1100-620-20 from $2,000. to $4,000. Bob Jean seconds. Mr. Bryer comments that he feels that the school board has put a lot of effort into their budget and supports it as it was submitted. He suggests that the committee think of the tax rate as they motion to add to the budget. Mr. Foley replies that this is a work in progress. He adds that he can get the board’s view on the suggestion. He has a goal to have the SAU’s numbers and the school board proposed numbers be the same.

A discussion is held regarding policy and procedures of addressing the lines and section, in the budget. Mr. Bryer states that the committee cannot tell the school board how to spend the money in what lines once the bottom line has been established. Discussion ensues on the process of motioning to increase or decrease line amounts. Ms. Smith states that lines need specific numbers for the MS-7. She notes that there will be another public hearing, regarding any changed figures. Ms. Dole reminds the committee that many times the boards and committees recommended amounts do not match. VOTE: YES: SBobowski, RJ. NO: BE, RB, NH, JJ, SBryer, DM. SF abstains. Motion fails; 6/2/1. The line remains at $2,000.

Dept. 1100 - Total Regular Education Programs:

Mr. Bryer makes a motion to approve the bottom line for the Total Regular Education Programs, as recommended by the school board for  $5,229,402.78. Mr. Bailey seconds. Mr. Foley states that the line will need to be addressed again with the Coe Brown figures. VOTE: YES: SBobowski, BE, RB, SBryer, NH, JJ, DM, SF. NO: RJ. Motion passes; 8/1. 

Dept. 1200 – Special Instruction Programs:

Mr. Bryer notes that this figure will change with CBNA figures. Mr. Bryer makes a motion to recommend the Special Instructional Programs, as recommended by the school board for $2,055,434.27. Mr. Jean seconds. Mr. Jean asks for a clarification of the 25 cuts from special education. Mr. Foley explains that the school board asked all departments to generally reduce their budgets by 2%. He refers to page 4, line 1200-569, which shows the difference of $159,701.30. Mr. Foley states that this is a savings due to the two aide positions being eliminated. Bob Jean makes a motion to amend the motion to increase line 1200-110-40.2 from $118,625.50 up to the original proposed amount, $143,337. Mr. Jean feels that cuts across the board are arbitrary. He feels that he could live with issues like increases in school board salaries, athletic issues, or field trips as long as departments like this are not cut. Ms. Bobowski seconds. Mr. Foley explains that the school board did pick an arbitrary number of 2% that they asked the departments to try to reduce their requested budget. He states that this motion is restoring two positions that the school does not necessarily have to have. Mr. Jean replies that the positions were not determined to be eliminated before hand, it was arbitrary. Mr. Foley replies that the 2% was a target amount. The school board asked the special ed director to determine where cuts could be made. Mr. Bailey states that there is a reserve fund for special ed and the committee should go along with the school’s recommendation that they provided. Further discussion continues regarding the special education lines and how it fluctuates. Mr. Bailey feels that the school is responsible to put the positions back into the system, if needed. Mr. Jean feels that the one on one input is critical and this arbitrary cut is not acceptable. He adds that he will be less likely to accept issues throughout the budget if this is not approved. Ms. Cohen states that the recommendation was difficult. She explains that the cuts will not be child specific cuts. She states that the responsibility would need to be picked up by teachers rather than paraprofessionals. This will strain their already high responsibilities; however, if there is anywhere in the special ed budget that there is any leeway, this was the best projection. Mr. Foley states that they must set goals and a target. Bob Jean moves the motion. VOTE: YES: SBobowski, BE, RJ, NH, JJ. NO: RB, SBryer, SF, DM. Motion passes; 5/4. Mr. Foley provides the amended salary amounts and benefits amounts for the following line items:

* 1200/211 – Health Insurance will increase $10,225.47

* 1200/212 – Dental Insurance will increase $1089.74

* 1200/213 – Life Insurance will increase $4,901.

* 1200/219 – Buyout $1,500.

* 1200/220 – F.I.C.A $1,855.07

TOTAL = $39,470.79

Mr. Foley states that the budget will now go back to the proposed 2006-2007 figures rather than the school board figures.

Bob Jean makes a motion, second by Shelley Bobowski, for all necessary changes to the benefits of Dept. 1200 as 2006-2007 proposed, be made accordingly. Mr. Bryer asks if these were vacant positions. Mr. Foley states that they were not vacant. Mr. Bryer calls to move the vote. VOTE: YES: SBobowski, RJ, NH, JJ, SF, DM. NO: BE, RB, SBryer. Motion prevails; 6/3.

Dept. 1200: Special Instruction Programs total bottom line is $2,094,985.23.

A discussion is held regarding increasing line 1200/250, which is unemployment compensation by the proposed $80. Steve Foley states that the amended amount is $2,094,985.23. VOTE: YES: SBobowski, RJ, NH, JJ, SF, DM. NO: BE, RB, SBryer. Motion passes; 6/3.

Dept. 1300 – Vocation Programs:

Mr. Bryer makes a motion, second by Mr. Jean, to approve the school board recommended amount of $10,012.00. VOTE: YES: SBobowski, BE, RJ, SBryer, NH, JJ, SF, DM. Motion passes; 8/0/1. Mr. Bailey was out of the room. 

Dept. 1400 – Co-Curricular Activities:

Mr. Bryer makes a motion, second by Mr. Jean, to approve the school board recommended amount of $52,888.70. VOTE: YES: SBobowski, RJ, SBryer, NH, JJ, SF, DM. NO: BE. Motion passes; 7/1/1. Mr. Bailey was out of the room. 

Dept. 1430 – Summer School:

Mr. Bryer makes a motion, second by Mr. Jean, to approve the school board recommended amount of $3,763.20. VOTE: YES: SBobowski, BE, RB, RJ, SBryer, NH, JJ, SF, DM. Motion passes unanimously; 9/0.  

Dept. 2100 – Attendance:

Ms. Bobowski makes a motion, second by Mr. Jean, to approve the school board recommended amount of $2.00. VOTE: YES: SBobowski, BE, RB, RJ, SBryer, NH, JJ, SF, DM. Motion passes unanimously; 9/0.  

Dept. 2120 – Guidance:

Ms. Bobowski makes a motion, second by Mr. Jean, to approve the school board recommended amount of $80,649.95. Mr. Bryer asks about the half time position proposed, line 2120/110/20. Mr. Foley states that this amount includes the salary and the maximum benefits, as there is no way to determine what type of benefits the employee would need. The hours would be 2-half days a week. Further discussion is held regarding what benefits are available for part time employees. Ms. McGann states that they figure these amounts for insurance by taking 50% of the benefits total of the full time employee. VOTE: YES: SBobowski, BE, RB, RJ, SBryer, NH, SF, DM. NO: JJ. Motion passes unanimously; 8/1.  

Dept. 2120 – Health Services:

Mr. Jean makes a motion, second by Ms. Bobowski, to approve the school board recommended amount of $80,852.26. VOTE: YES: SBobowski, BE, RB, RJ, SBryer, NH, JJ, SF, DM. Motion passes unanimously; 9/0.  

Dept. 2140 – Special Contracted Services:

Ms. Bobowski makes a motion, second by Mr. Jean, to approve the school board recommended amount of $122,732.57. Ms. Bobowski asks what the changes are. Ms. Cohen explains that there is a decrease in the amount of need for services and an increase in the physical therapy. VOTE: YES: SBobowski, RB, RJ, SBryer, NH, JJ, SF, DM. NO: BE. Motion passes; 8/0/1. Mr. Edwards abstains.

Dept. 2150 – Speech Services:

Mr. Jean makes a motion, second by Mr. Bryer, to approve the school board recommended amount of $87,989.61. VOTE: YES: SBobowski, BE, RB, RJ, SBryer, NH, JJ, SF, DM. Motion passes unanimously; 9/0.  

Dept. 2210 – Improvement of Instruction:

Mr. Jean makes a motion, second by Ms. Bobowski, to approve the school board recommended amount of $34,888.19. Mr. Jacobsmeyer asks about the amounts and compares the figures of last year. Ms. Colburn explains that the teachers can take up to two courses per year. Ms. Bobwski asks what goes into staff development. Dr. Crist explains that this is for regional work shops that all staff can go to UNH for a day. He adds that there is an agreement for up to $200 for reimbursement to offset the cost for additional workshops. Ms. Bobowski states that the staff needs to be supported for development. Dr. Crist states that some teachers do not participate in the workshops. Ms. Bobowski asks if this is an adequate amount. She requests that the school look into a social curriculum as Nottingham has done. Ms. Bobowski makes a motion, second by Mr. Jean, to increase 2210/322-In Service Training, by $4,000. to become $6,200. to accommodate one day of training for the school to enrich the school environment, to look at different types of programming for staff, and bring forth ideas that would have a tangible effect. Ms. McGann confirms that this is a $1200 cost for a consultant to come to the school for a program. There is no cost for the school to cover the salaries for the teachers. This would be incorporated as a workshop day. Ms. Boboski withdraws her motion. Mr. Jean withdraws the second.

Ms. Bobowski makes a motion, second by Mr. Jean, to increase 2210/322-3, In Service Training, by $1,200. to become $3,400. Mr. Bryer states that the school board has presented their budget and he feels that the overall budget is a huge increase and the committee should not amend the individual lines. Ms. Bobowski feels that this is worth the investment. Nona Holmes states that she feels that the staff should be doing this already and should be included in the proposed budget. Mr. Foley replies that this is one of many good ideas.

Mr. Bryer leaves at 3:03 p.m. 

VOTE: YES: SBobowski, BE, RB, RJ, JJ, SF, DM. NO: NH. Motion passes; 7/1.  

Mr. Foley confirms that the new bottom line for Dept. 2210 – Improvement of Instruction is $36,088.19. VOTE: YES: SBobowski, BE, RB, RJ, JJ, SF, DM. NO: NH. Motion passes; 7/1.  

3:15p.m. Chairman McNally calls for a recess until Monday, January 9, at 7:00 p.m.

Respectfully submitted,

Lisa Fellows-Weaver

Board Secretary

Town of Northwood

Budget Committee Minutes

1/7/06