Budget Committee

Minutes

January 6, 2007

Official as of November 6, 2007

Chairman Daniel McNally calls the public session to order at 9:05 a.m.

PRESENT: Chairman Daniel McNally, Vice-Chairman Shelley Bobowski, School Board Representative Bill Tappan, Ben Edwards, Colleen Pingree, Kate McNally, Nona Holmes, Robert Bailey, Herb Johnson, Robert Jean, Mark Edwards, Board Administrator Linda Smith, and Board Secretary Lisa Fellows-Weaver. John Jacobsmeyer arrives at 10:49.

ABSENT: Cindy Jones Bryer, excused. Selectmen Representative and Douglas Briggs.

PUBLIC PRESENT: Bunny Behm, Ginger Dole, and Lucy Edwards.

SCHOOL BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT:
Principal Esther Asbell, Superintendent Judy McGann, Financial Assistant  Betsy Colburn, School Board Vice Chair Bernice Raffaele, and Business Administrator Kathleen Sargeant. Irene Simoneau arrives later in the meeting.

SCHOOL PUBLIC HEARING:
School Board Representative Bill Tappan reviews the new materials distributed to members today. Superintendent Judy McGann also reviews additional information distributed relative to the three districts of the SAU, updated regulations, and goals that the SAU is working to implement.

Mr. Tappan reviews the budget and general discussions are held regarding the following departments:

Page: 1-2: Dept. 1100~Regular Education:
Page 2: Line: 1100-640-1~Classroom Workbooks:
Mr. Tappan explains that the administration has proposed $11,850 and the school board has proposed an increase of $5,200 to this line for a total of $17,050. He explains that this is due to a foreign language curriculum that is proposed.

Page 2-3: Dept. 1200~Special Instruction Programs:
Page 3: Line: 1270-810~Gifted and Talented:
Mr. Tappan states that administration proposed $7,500 and the school board proposed $9,500. He explains that this is the combination of two items; gifted and talented and enrichment with the purpose of having funds for the gifted and talented program. The gifted and talented in the past has had very few funds allocated and the board would like to add this to the budget this year to make sure that it is a funded item. Bunny Behm refers to the narrative in which $9,500 is noted as being maintained; however, it is not listed in expended. Mr. Tappan states that this is not being maintained; it is being increased. Ms. Dole states that this is a new line that has not been there in the past and cautions the board in how the wording of the narratives is done. Betsy Colburn explains that the $9,500 is made of $7,500 from line 1270/810. Bernice Raffaele adds that the $2,000 is from a title change and the school board combined wages. 

Page 1-2: Dept. 1100~Regular Education Programs:
After review of the section, Mr. Tappan states that the total for the school board recommended amount is $5,873,400.33.

Ms. Dole refers to the narrative regarding the foreign language program. She adds that it appears that the school is proposing two $40,000 teaching positions with benefits. She feels that this is a major expenditure that has not been explored. She states that this is the limit of the expenditures for beginning a language program in the 7th and 8th grades. Mr. Tappan replies that there is a lot to be done in coordination with CBNA. This is the basics and the school needs to get moving on this type of a program. He adds that he is aware of another school, within the district, that has done this successfully and the students are prepared. Mr. Tappan states that this is just for teachers, and supplies in terms of books. The school has not gone beyond this for any equipment.

Principal Asbell states that Strafford has a foreign language program. Informal discussions have been held with Coe Brown Northwood Academy Headmaster David Smith as far as grades and text book requirements. She adds that there is no policy with the elementary school but there is a system already working at CBNA. Ms. Dole asks why there needs to be a language program at the 7th and 8th grade level. She feels that these are nice extras and the program will expand and cost more in the future. She states that there needs to be more research done. Ms. McGann states that there are already labs in place in the class. She adds that this program enables the children to be more successful, move ahead with their ability, sharpen skills with a foreign language, and be more prepared in secondary schools. Ms. McGann states that many secondary schools require 2-4 years of a foreign language. She states that this is a recommendation by the school board and the administration.

Ms. Behm disagrees with Ms. Dole and adds that another thing to look at is that there are so many high school requirements now and to get the first year of a language, which is a requirement, out of the way, it will free up another course that the student may take that they may not have been able to. She adds that it is hard to take electives as there are so many standard requirements. Ms. Asbell further explains that the juniors and seniors in the advanced placement classes are sometimes locked out of courses as the scheduling at the school is limited to them due to the fact that a class is only offered at a certain time of day. This may restrict the advanced placement student to take another course of study.

Bill Tappan states that in today’s world, students need to be well rounded and able to speak a foreign language. The schools need to provide the opportunity and will make the students better prepared for high school and college. He feels that this is becoming a necessity. He adds that many items have been put off for many different reasons. Speaking a foreign language is now not a luxury; it is a necessity. Mr. Tappan states that the school board is putting this proposal forward with confidence, strongly believes in it and is advocating for it. 

Irene Simoneau states that she is the main thrust of putting this program into the budget. She explains that she was a foreign language teacher and sees many benefits with this type of a program. She states that a foreign language can improve English language skills. She feels that there is a need for an upgrade to the system. She understands if the town cannot support it due to finances; however, she feels that something should be implemented as soon as possible. 
 
Page 2-3: Dept. 1200~Special Education Programs:
Mr. Tappan states that the total for the department is $2,035,195.06. Ms. McGann  states that this includes additional teaching staff that relates to the person who maintains the paper work within the special ed department, including assessments, coordinating meetings required, and local education agent (LES). Ms. McGann explains this is one area of the district that did not make annual yearly progress with the state. She notes that another reason was the paper work that needs to be done, the special ed staff was tending to the paper work and was not able to direct the services and meet the needs of students. This person will be able to do the assessments on the children rather than the case managers. She further explains the assessment process in which the process can take up to 4 hours of the educator’s time, per assessment. 

Page 3: Dept. 1300~Vocational Programs:
Mr. Tappan states that the total proposed is $3. He explains that the change is at the high school level this year.

Page 3-4: Dept. 1400~Co-Curriular Activities:
Mr. Tappan states that the total proposed is $58,193.

Page 4: Dept. 1430~Summer School:
Mr. Tappan states that the total proposed is $3,764.

Page 4: Dept. 2110~Attendance:
Mr. Tappan states that the total proposed is $2.

Page 4-5: Dept. 2120~Guidance Services:
Mr. Tappan states that the total proposed is $86,072.67. Ms. Dole refers to the  guidance salaries. She asks if this is a proposal to increase the existing ½ position to a full time position for a total of two full time positions. She refers to the narrative which indicates a new position. Ms. Asbell states that the benefits are prorated. She refers to page 3 in the narrative, which further explains that this is the half time elementary guidance position being requested to increase to full time.

Page 5: Dept. 2130~Health Services:
Mr. Tappan states that the total proposed is $73,448.68.

Page 5-6: Dept. 2140~Special Contracted Services:
Mr. Tappan states that the total proposed is $129,938.67. Ms. Dole refers to line
2140/310/5 English as a second language (ESL) and asks about the enrollment. Ms. McGann replies that there are approximately 5 students and this includes CBNA. Ms. McGann further explains that when a student first comes into the district, the student goes through a rigorous assessment and they must score within a certain range. The range mandates the one on one service that the child needs and usually begins at 10 hours a week. She adds that this is for the entire district, K-12.

Page 6: Dept. 2150~Speech Services:
Mr. Tappan states that the total proposed is $83,576.44.

Page 6: Dept. 2210~Improvement of Instruction:
Mr. Tappan states that the total proposed is $40,238.

Chairman McNally calls for a recess at 10:15. Session resumes at 10:30.

Page 7: Dept. 2220~Library:
Mr. Tappan states that the total proposed is $57,343.72.

Page 7: Dept. 2225~Technology:
Mr. Tappan states that the total proposed is $115,384.33. He explains that the increase is due to a recommendation for a new technology director line 2225/110/1~Technology Director Salary. The salary is for $88,892.33. Ms. Dole states that this is an exorbitant amount for a position. She requests a breakdown for the position. She adds that the technology is already in the school at this time and asks who is handling the work now. Mr. Tappan replies that this position is a state mandate. He explains that this has caused the school some concern as there has been a combination of positions to address the work and tech support.

Mr. Tappan states that he has viewed the equipment and the equipment is antiquated. He further explains that ports on switches have died due to old equipment, patch cables needed to be replaced and had not been, systems are old and the hardware has not been rotated. He states that these problems will be rectified by filling the state mandated position and then by giving the person the ability and authority to do the job; in addition to providing the technical support that is necessary and not having teachers do what they can to help out. Ms. Asbell states that there is at least 103-125 systems including the printers, etc.

Ms. Asbell explains that the position is currently operating on a priority basis. Many things are put on hold due to the technology which in turn affects the curriculum. She states that an example is the science fair curriculum, which has been revamped to be less technology based as the technology cannot support what it had in the past. She states that they have used grant money and had an assessment done, which recommended that they coordinate to get the equipment functioning.

Ms. Behm asks if this is a school year or full year position. Ms. Asbell replies that this is a full year position so that maintenance can be accomplished in the summer months. Further discussion is held regarding the salary. Ms. Asbell refers to page 2 in the narrative and states that the position is listed at $60,000 plus all benefits. Mr. Tappan states that this is a budgeted amount so that there is something to work with. The school needs someone to do the job effectively.

Page 7-8: Dept. 2310~School Board Services:
Mr. Tappan states that the total proposed is $45,648.

Page 8: Dept. 2321~Expenses-S.A.U.#44:
Mr. Tappan states that the total proposed is $262,410.97.

Page 8-9: Dept. 2410~Office of the Principal:
Mr. Tappan states that the total proposed is $253,031.43.

Page 9-11: Dept. 2600~Operation and Maintenance of Plant:
Mr. Tappan states that the total proposed is $430,059.65.

Page 11: Dept. 2700~Transportation Services:
Mr. Tappan states that the total proposed is $575,581.22. He refers to line 2721/519/1 proposed for $338,811.01. Mr. Tappan states that the school board and administration are proposing a difference in the way the transportation is being provided.

Ms. Asbell explains that currently there are 2 waves for busses for arrival and dismissal. 5 busses come in and there is approximately 20-30 minutes that the students are waiting for the busses to comeback for the second wave. During the waiting period in the morning and afternoon, students are waiting, discipline problems occur, and supervision during these shifts must be covered by staff. Ms. Asbell further explains the teacher’s contracts relative to supervision duties and adds that this is not a good use of their training and expertise. She states that the incidents of discipline are much higher during these two times of day. The administration feels that with 8 busses running at one time, the instruction time of the day would increase 5-7 minutes. She adds that students also wait for a bus for athletic events and are at a disadvantage as they do not have the proper time to prepare. She notes that times for field trips are also affected. She notes that this affects the entire population of students. 
 
Ms. Behm asks if the bus company is in agreement with this. Kathleen Sargeant replies that the bus transportation was put out to bid. Only one bid came back and it was just opened yesterday. The school board has yet to see the bid; however, she states that the amount is covered in the proposed amount. Ms. Dole understands the reasoning. She states that this is for the same number of busses and the same routes. She understands that additional staff would be necessary; however, the 5 existing drivers were already working the same amount of hours. She adds that it should balance out. Ms. Asbell replies that there would be 3 new busses purchased  and additional drivers. Ms. Dole asks if the contract has been changed. Ms. Sargeant replies that the bid specifications will be discussed at the Monday night school board meeting.

Page 11: Dept. 4000~Building Improvement Services:
Mr. Tappan states that this section is $0. 

Page 11: Dept. 5100~Debt Service:
Mr. Tappan states that the total debt service budgeted is $419,736.25 and notes that it has decreased.

Page 11: Dept. 5200~Capital Reserve:
Mr. Tappan states that this section is $0. 

Total General Fund Operating Budget:
Mr. Tappan states that the total general fund budget proposed is $10,603,522.87.

Page 11-12: Dept. 3100~Food Services:
Mr. Tappan states that this department’s total is $130,102.51. Ms. Dole asks why such a substantial increase for line 3120/630. Ms. Sargeant replies that the school district has a wellness plan of which part of that is the food service program. The  amount of food that is prepared is based upon the number of students, the age group, and portion they receive. She states that the school has been absorbing some costs of the food service program. 

John Jacobsmeyer arrives at 10:49.

Page 13: Budget Summary:
Total proposed budget is $10,733,625.38.

Warrant Articles:
Mr. Tappan reads the proposed warrant articles. Discussions are held as follows:

1. Teacher’s Contracts: Ms. McGann states that negotiations are still ongoing. A meeting is scheduled for Monday night.

2. Special Meeting Authorization: Necessary should Article 1 fail.
3. School Operating Budget: No discussion is held.

4. $25,000. Capital Reserve Fund– RSA Ch. 35: No discussion is held.

5. $25,000. Capital Reserve for Capital Improvements: No discussion is held.

6. $12,000. Projection Enrollment Assessment Study: Ms. Dole asks if the study is for determining the amount of students who will be coming in to the town over a period of time. Mr. Tappan replies yes and adds that this is also for facilities and lands. Ms. McGann adds that this assessment will be provided to the planning board who had requested to project “build out” accurately. This assessment is researched base for the planning board so they can use the data for the town for planning purposes. Ms. Behm asks if this legally falls under the purpose of the capital reserve fund. Ms. Sargeant replies that she will need to check with legal counsel.

7. Repairing Blocks to the 1988 Wing: Mr. Tappan states that they are waiting for the estimate to come in.

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

Ms. Dole asks if there are any projections at this time as to whether there will be surplus, or if there will be a potential deficit. Ms. Sargeant replies that there is no deficit and they are not projecting a deficit. She adds that there will be a small amount left over at this time.

With no further discussion, Mr. McNally closes the public portion of the school budget at 11:05 a.m. and the committee enters into their work session. 

SCHOOL WORK SESSION:
The committee agrees to address the budget by sections.

Page: 1-2: Dept. 1100~Regular Education:
Ms. Bobowski makes a motion to recommend the bottom line for the Total Regular Education Programs, as written by the school board for  $5,873,400.33. Mr. Bailey seconds. Mr. Johnson asks if this section includes the foreign language amount and Mr. Tappan replies that it is included. Ms. McNally asks if the teacher salaries match the new staff list and Mr. Tappan replies yes. She adds that she found it confusing that the narrative does not have the details provided regarding benefits that the lines do. She requests that this be consistent.
Ms. McNally asks why such a small increase in line 1100/211-Health Insurance. Ms. McGann replies that the major change is based on change in staff. She adds that there is only a 4.8% increase in the health insurance. Ms. Bobowski asks if the “allowed to increase portion” is a portion of the contract. Ms. McGann replies yes and adds that this is negotiated as part of the contract. Mr. Johnson asks what the cost is for section 125. Ms. Sargeant states that this is related to health and dental.  Ms. McNally states that she feels it is misleading when presented with a list for K-8 students and not for CBNA. She requests a total list of students. Mr. Tappan states that it is noted in the narrative. Ms. McNally asks if the school has appropriated enough for supplies. Ms. Asbell explains the approach for general supplies this year was done by actual meeting with the grade levels for each need per class. As far as other supplies, she met with each department for specific needs and they provided a  list of specifics. She feels that this was much more accurate and reflects the teacher input.

Mark Edwards asks what the percentage of increase is for CBNA tuition. Ms. McGann replies that CBNA will not exceed 5%. They will be meeting Jan. 10 and will have a final number.

Ms. McNally asks what will happen if the technology position is not put into the budget, what the consequences are as this is a state mandate. Ms. McGann replies that in order to apply for grants, if the school does not meet the mandates then you will not receive the grant monies. Mr. Tappan states that there will be other impacts. Ms. McGann states that all programs are technology based and it must be maintained. Mr. Tappan states that there will not be a need for a computer support person as well as for maintenance. These will all be absorbed under this position. Mr.  Tappan states that the range is $40,000-$60,000 and benefits are included. 
 
Ms. Pingree asks about attendance for kindergarten increasing and the ratio of students to teachers. Ms. Asbell explains the plan is to hold off on kindergarten registration this year for more accurate numbers. She adds that it will depend on the budget passing for configurations of teacher/student ratios.

Ms. Holmes states that she supports the foreign language program and notes that the schools need to start educating the kids. Ms. Bobowski suggests that the school board consider other languages than the “romance” languages; Chinese. Mr. Tappan agrees; however, it is difficult finding a person to teach Chinese on this pay range. VOTE: YES: SBobowski, BE, CP, KM, NH, RB, JJ, BT, DM. NO: HJ, ME. Motion passes; 9/2.

Page 2-3: Dept. 1200~Special Education Programs:
Ms. McNally makes a motion to recommend $2,035,195.06 for the Total Special Education Programs, as written by the school board. Ms. Holmes seconds. Ms. Bobowski refers to line 1270/810-Gifted & Talented and states that she feels that there will be an increase in ramifications. Ms. McNally asks why this line is classified under Spec. Ed. Ms. Asbell replies that it is considered a Spec. Ed program. Mr. Edwards asks about government assistance. Ms. McGann refers to IDEA and states that we are receiving less than what was stated that the government would be providing. VOTE: YES: SBobowski, BE, CP, KM, NH, RB, JJ, BT, DM, HJ, and ME. Motion passes unanimously; 11/0.
Page 3: Dept. 1300~Vocational Programs:
Mr. Johnson makes a motion, second by Ms. Bobowski, to recommend the school board amount of $3. VOTE: YES: SBobowski, BE, CP, KM, NH, RB, JJ, BT, DM, HJ, and ME. Motion passes unanimously; 11/0.

Page 3-4: Dept. 1400~Co-Curriular Activities:
Ms. Bobowski makes a motion, second by Mr. Johnson, to recommend the school board amount of $58,193.
Bob Jean returns to the meeting at 11:35.
Ms. Pingree requests an explanation for the increase regarding Athletic Supplies 1420/610/8. Ms. Asbell reads the specifics noting that this covers a numerous amount of uniforms, and equipment for various sports. A brief discussion is held regarding a lacrosse program. Ms. Asbell states that lacrosse program was discussed and the school board agreed to support a volleyball program as this program currently exists at CBNA.

Ms. McNally asks about line 1420/500/1-Science Camp. She states that at the last budget meeting it was mentioned that the science camp may take a different form. Ms. Asbell states that science camp is the 6th grade program and the AMC trip is now the 8th grade trip to allow for more flexibility and support. Ms. McNally asks for clarification regarding the extra curricular stipends line 1410/110/2. Ms. Asbell replies that the stipends are within negotiated contracts and an example would be the different clubs and sports. All are contractual. VOTE: YES: SBobowski, BE, CP, KM, NH, RB, HJ, JJ, RJ, ME, BT, and DM. Motion passes unanimously; 12/0.

Page 4: Dept. 1430~Summer School:
Ms. Bobowski makes a motion, second by Mr. Johnson, to recommend the school board amount of $3,764. VOTE: YES: SBobowski, BE, CP, KM, NH, RB, HJ, JJ, RJ, ME, BT, and DM. Motion passes unanimously; 12/0.

Page 4: Dept. 2110~Attendance:
Ms. McNally makes a motion, second by Ms. Bobowski, to recommend the school board amount of $2. VOTE: YES: SBobowski, BE, CP, KM, NH, RB, HJ, JJ, ME, BT, and DM. NO: RJ. Motion passes unanimously; 11/1.

Page 4-5: Dept. 2120~Guidance Services:
Ms. Bobowski makes a motion, second by Mr. Bailey, to recommend the school board amount of $86,072.67. Ms. Pingree states that the school board should be prepared to do what is necessary to explain the need for another full time person. Ms. Asbell replies that currently the school is operating with 1½ counselors. There is a need for a full comprehensive program, which is mandated by the state. She refers to the narrative, which refers to three facets that the school needs to be working on; personal, academic, and career. She explains that the additional hours will allow the time necessary to raise awareness and be in the classrooms. She further explains the types of responsibilities that are necessary for additional help to students that this additional time would allow. She states that the contracts are for 1 full time guidance for grades 5-8 and one ½ time guidance for K-4. She states that outsourcing options are utilized for students that need regular guidance services. Further discussion is held regarding grant funding and additional services provided on a sliding scale or insurances from the family itself. VOTE: YES: SBobowski, BE, CP, KM, NH, RB, JJ, RJ, ME, BT, and DM. NO: HJ. Motion passes unanimously; 11/1.

Page 5: Dept. 2130~Health Services:
Ms. Bobowski makes a motion, second by Mr. Jean, to recommend the school board amount of $73,448.68. Ms. Holmes asks why the school nurse travels. Mr. Tappan replies that the travel is from the elementary school to CBNA. Ms. McGann further explains that there are currently students at the high school with health  needs and the nurse can meet the needs for both. CBNA nurse services the entire school and does not have the ability to service the student. VOTE: YES: SBobowski, BE, CP, KM, NH, RB, HJ, JJ, RJ, ME, BT, and DM. Motion passes unanimously; 12/0.

Page 5-6: Dept. 2140~Special Contracted Services:
Mr. Bailey makes a motion, second by Ms. Bobowski, to recommend the school board amount of $129,938.67. Ms. Bobowski asks what the Strafford Learning Center Membership is for. Ms. McGann explains that this is an outsource for special ed. There is a team supplied spec. ed program and service. The amount of money is based on students in the district by a fee. Currently it is $6. per student. Further definition is provided regarding the services for early intervention and outside counseling for students at risk. She notes that this was originally contracted via occupational therapy and none of the schools needed full time OT services. The  SAU looked at each of the programs, preschool to high school, and determined how much service is needed and the SAU contracted their own services. In the end the price is less as they are SAU employees. VOTE: YES: SBobowski, BE, CP, KM, NH, RB, HJ, JJ, RJ, ME, BT, and DM. Motion passes unanimously; 12/0.

Page 6: Dept. 2150~Speech Services:
Ms. Bobowski makes a motion, second by Mr. Johnson, to recommend the school board amount of $83,576.44. With no discussion, VOTE: YES: SBobowski, BE, CP, KM, NH, RB, HJ, JJ, RJ, ME, BT, and DM. Motion passes unanimously; 12/0.

Page 6: Dept. 2210~Improvement of Instruction:
Mr. Bailey makes a motion, second by Ms. Bobowski, to recommend the school board amount of $40,238. With no discussion, VOTE: YES: SBobowski, BE, CP, KM, NH, RB, HJ, JJ, RJ, ME, BT, and DM. Motion passes unanimously; 12/0.

Page 7: Dept. 2220~Library:
Mr. Bailey makes a motion, second by Ms. Bobowski, to recommend the school board amount of $57,343.72. With no discussion, VOTE: YES: SBobowski, BE, CP, KM, NH, RB, HJ, JJ, RJ, ME, BT, and DM. Motion passes unanimously; 12/0.

Page 7: Dept. 2225~Technology:
Mr. Bailey makes a motion, second by Ms. Bobowski, to recommend the school board amount of $115,384.33. Mark Edwards confirms that the computer support position has been eliminated, line 2225/300. Mr. Tappan explains that the new position of the technology director line 2225/110/1 will take over the duties. He adds that he feels that one person will be sufficient. VOTE: YES: SBobowski, BE, CP, KM, NH, RB, BT, DM. NO: HJ, JJ, RJ, ME. Motion passes; 8/4.

Page 7-8: Dept. 2310~School Board Services:
Ms. Bobowski makes a motion, second by Mr. Jean, to recommend the school board amount of $45,648. With no discussion, VOTE: YES: SBobowski, BE, CP, KM, NH, RB, HJ, JJ, RJ, ME, BT, and DM. Motion passes unanimously; 12/0.

Page 8: Dept. 2321~Expenses-S.A.U.#44:
Mr. Johnson makes a motion, second by Ms. Bobowski, to recommend the school board amount of $262,410.97. With no discussion, VOTE: YES: SBobowski, BE, CP, KM, NH, RB, HJ, JJ, RJ, BT, and DM. NO: ME. Motion passes; 11/1.

Page 8-9: Dept. 2410~Office of the Principal:
Ms. Bobowski makes a motion, second by Mr. Jean, to recommend the school board amount of $253,031.43. Ms. McNally asks what the percentage is for raises reflected within the increase. Ms. McGann replies that it is a 4% increase. Further discussion is held regarding the salary of the proposed technology position and the principal. Ms. McGann states that the new position is listed as an up to $60,000 for the salary. Mark Edwards asks if there is a contractual obligation for the salary of the principal to increase to $78,000. Ms. McGann replies yes and notes that the principal is different than last year’s personnel. VOTE: YES: SBobowski, BE, CP, KM, NH, RB, HJ, JJ, RJ, ME, BT, and DM. Motion passes unanimously; 12/0.

Page 9: Dept. 2520~Fiscal Services:
Mr. Johnson makes a motion, second by Mr. Jean, to recommend the school board amount of $60,495.45. Ms. McNally asks if the increase is for all non contractual staff. Mr. Tappan replies yes. VOTE: YES: SBobowski, BE, CP, KM, NH, RB, HJ, JJ, RJ, ME, BT, and DM. Motion passes unanimously; 12/0.

Page 9-11: Dept. 2600~Operation and Maintenance of Plant:
Mr. Bailey makes a motion, second by Mr. Jean, to recommend the school board amount of $430,059.65. Ms. Bobowski notes that it appears that the increases are generated from fuel, electricity, and insurance premiums. Mr. Tappan replies yes. VOTE: YES: SBobowski, BE, CP, KM, NH, RB, HJ, JJ, RJ, ME, BT, and DM. Motion passes unanimously; 12/0.

Page 11: Dept. 2700~Transportation Services:
Ms. Bobowski makes a motion, second by Mr. Jean, to recommend the school board amount of $575,581.22. Ms. Bobowski asks if there is an alternative. Mr. Tappan replies that the issue is the bus schedule rotation and the fact that there are kids sitting on the busses so long. Mr. Bailey notes that there will be an offset as the teachers will not be being paid for that time. He also asks if there was only one transportation bid received. Ms. Sargeant replies yes. Ms. Pingree states that this will be a dramatic change of the school day. She asks if the town owns the busses.

Mr. Tappan explains that the vendor will increase their costs and will be doing the bus routes all at the same time. This will result in the need for three additional busses. The bid response was only one and there has been a huge change in the costs for the transportation. He adds that the benefits outweigh the costs.

Ms. Pingree requests a concrete analysis figure showing the cost increase. Mr. Tappan states that some information is in the narrative. Ms. Asbell adds that the teachers’ salaries are negotiated; however, the teachers’ use of time will be different. She explains that her goal is to increase the use of instruction time and feels that the students should be able to gain an extra year and ½ in education time. She notes that teacher’s time would still be paid for; however, the teachers would be being paid to instruct and not monitor. Paraprofessionals are paid on an hourly rate totaling $14,985 for bus duty. This is anticipated to increase due to negotiated contracts. 

Further discussion is held regarding the bid specifications and Ms. Sargeant explains that the bid specifications were sent out for 9 busses. The bid received was for 8 busses. The bid specifications were based on the number of miles, gas, insurance, labor, plus the busses. She adds that the school board has not made any decisions as they have not seen the document.

Mr. Tappan adds that this is a new number and a new situation and the school board is doing their best to estimate the costs. He states that this was a 5 year contract with the current provider. It was a good idea for the town, school, and provider to lock in costs. He states that in turn it ended up not being a good idea for the provider due to cost increases for fuel. There were no contractual obligations for the school to meet the cost increases. He states that the school has been fortunate to have the five year contract.

Mr. Tappan states that the figures provided are only an estimate. Actual figures will be available at the next budget meeting. Mr. Jean makes a motion, second by John Jacobsmeyer, to table the discussion until the actual numbers are available. VOTE: NO: SBobowski, BE, CP, KM, NH, RB, HJ, BT, DM. YES: JJ, RJ, ME. Motion passes; 9/3. Ms. Holmes makes a motion, second by Ms. Pingree, to postpone this discussion until the next meeting. VOTE: YES: SBobowski, BE, CP, KM, NH, RB, JJ, RJ, ME, BT, DM. NO: HJ. Motion passes; 11/1.

CBNA Tuition:
A discussion is held regarding CBNA tuition figures and the fact that they have not been completed. Mr. McNally states that if the committee follows the recommendation of not to exceed a certain percentage, what is voted on is fairly accurate. He explains that the budget committee would need to reduce it to the actual number. 

Page 11: Dept. 4000~Building Improvement:
No money involved.

Page 11: Dept. 5100~Building Improvement:
Mr. Johnson makes a motion, second by Ms. Bobowski, to recommend the school board amount of $419,736.25. VOTE: YES: SBobowski, BE, CP, KM, NH, RB, HJ, JJ, RJ, ME, BT, and DM. Motion passes unanimously; 12/0.

Page 11: Dept. 5200~Capital Reserve Fund:
No money involved.

Page 12: Dept. 3100~Food Service:
Ms. Bobowski makes a motion, second by Ms. Holmes, to recommend the school board amount of $130,102.51. VOTE: YES: SBobowski, BE, CP, KM, NH, RB, HJ, JJ, RJ, ME, BT, and DM. Motion passes unanimously; 12/0. Ms. McNally refers to line 3120/737 and asks why nothing is noted in the line for a café table when there is one cafeteria table listed in the narrative. Ms. Asbell replies that cafeteria tables are not solely used for kitchen purposes. VOTE: YES: SBobowski, BE, CP, KM, NH, RB, HJ, JJ, RJ, ME, BT, and DM. Motion passes unanimously; 12/0.

Warrant Articles:
1. Teacher’s Contracts: No action can be taken at this time.

2. Special Meeting Authorization: No action can be taken at this time.

3. School Operating Budget: No action can be taken at this time.

4. $25,000. Capital Reserve Fund– RSA Ch. 35: Ms. Bobowksi makes a motion, second by Mr. Johnson, to recommend the warrant article, as read. Ms. Bobowski asks what happens if the funding is not received. Ms. Sargeant replies that it is in the operating budget as it was voted in last year. She explains that if there is no money left over, then no money goes into the capital reserve fund. This warrant article is a special article and is only good for one year and must be appropriated yearly. She adds that it cannot be put into the budget. Mr. Bailey states that it is not raised by taxation; it is surplus. VOTE: YES: SBobowski, BE, CP, KM, NH, RB, HJ, JJ, RJ, ME, BT, and DM. Motion passes unanimously; 12/0.

5. $25,000. Capital Reserve for Capital Improvements: Mr. Johnson makes a motion, second by Ms. Bobowksi, to recommend Article 5, as read. VOTE: YES: SBobowski, BE, CP, KM, NH, RB, HJ, JJ, RJ, ME, BT, and DM. Motion passes unanimously; 12/0.

6. $12,000. Projection Enrollment Assessment Study: Mr. Bailey makes a motion, second by Ms. Bobowksi, to recommend Article 6, as read. VOTE: YES: SBobowski, BE, CP, KM, NH, RB, HJ, JJ, RJ, ME, BT, and DM. Motion passes unanimously; 12/0.

7. Repairing Blocks to the 1988 Wing: No action can be taken at this time.

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

At 12:45 p.m. Ms. Bobowski makes a motion, second by Mr. Bailey, to recess until Tuesday, January 9, at 7:00 p.m. at the Northwood Elementary School Library. Motion passes unanimously; 12/0.

Respectfully submitted,

Lisa Fellows-Weaver
Board Secretary