Budget Committee

Minutes

January 5, 2008

Official as of February 9, 2008

Chairman Daniel McNally calls the public session to order at 9:00 a.m.

PRESENT: Chairman Daniel McNally, Vice-Chairman Robert Holden, School Board Representative Jim Ryan, Robert Bailey, Ben Edwards, Colleen Pingree, Nona Holmes, Lucy Edawrds, Herb Johnson, Board Administrator Linda Smith, and Board Secretary Lisa Fellows-Weaver. John Jacobsmeyer arrives at 10:49.

ABSENT: Selectmen Representative, Shelley Bobowski, and Tammie Beaulieu.

PUBLIC PRESENT: Kate McNally, Bunny Behm, Ginger Dole, Ellen Gibson, 

SCHOOL BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT:
Principal Esther Asbell, Superintendent Judy McGann, Financial Assistant  Betsy Colburn, and Business Administrator Bill Tappan.

SCHOOL PUBLIC HEARING:
School Board Representative Jim Ryan reviews the school’s proposed budget dated 12/21/07 Draft 1. He notes areas of increase and decrease throughout the programs and general discussions are held regarding the following departments:

Page: 1-2: Dept. 1100~Regular Education
Mr. Ryan explains that the regular education section does not have much flexibility due to the fact that the proposed figures are results of contracts. Ms. Behm notes that there appears to be some percentage calculation discrepancies. Ms. McGann notes that the percentage column is based on the administration proposed amount to the school board. She adds that there are possibly four lines with this discrepancy and the numbers will be corrected.

Page 1: Line: 1100-563~Coe Brown Tuition:
Mr. Ryan states that the CBNA amount proposed, $254,531.21, is the amount calculated by the anticipated amount of students that are expected to attend CBNA, which is 8 new students. Ms. Behm states that the percentage listed is
8% and feels it is misleading. She explains that the CBNA trustees guaranteed not to exceed 5%. She feels that the 8% listed is the 5% plus an extra 3% more for additional students. Mr. Ryan states that there are other areas in the budget that are “not to exceed numbers”. Ms. McGann states that the CBNA tuition line is based on a not to exceed 5%, and 8 is the number of new students projected.  

Page 1-2: Line: 1100-610-5~Language Arts:
Ms. Asbell explains that there are some increases within this section based on accommodations for the new reading program that was implemented for K-4 and now grades 5-8 will be getting the new reading program. The reading program will then be consistent for K-8. Mr. Ryan notes lines 640/1 and 640/2 are changeable items.

Page 2: Line: 1100-733-1&2~Repalcement of Equipment:
Page 2: Line: 1100-810~Dues and Fees:
Ms. McGann explains that these items are discretionary, meaning that they are items with a capability of movement. Mr. Ryan states that the difference is noted at 11.62%; however, a corrected version will be provided. 

Ms. Gibson asks about line 640/2, and the notation of room for change and discretionary. Ms. Asbell explains that this is not an estimate. It is an actual figure based on requests from teachers for the supplies and equipment necessary to continue with the reading program and math workbooks. She adds that the difference would only be in the costs of shipping. Mr. Ryan adds that the school board was thinking that there would be something of equivalent value available through other workbooks and/or other companies. Ms. Asbell replies that the programs cannot be substituted from another company or the programs will not be specific and consistent. Ms. McNally states that if these numbers are not discretionary, then the amount budgeted is the amount required to fulfill the program with the necessary supplies.

Page 2-3: Dept. 1200~Special Education Programs:
Page 2-3: Line: 1200-110~Special Education Aide Programs:
Ms. McGann explains that there were three additional support staff for 07-08 due to specific needs this year that were not budgeted. The number proposed is based on this years actual needs of students, with three new additional support staff as well as the new contract and the new staff. Ms. Dole asks how many overall support staff is included in the special education aide wages. Ms. McGann replies 22. 

Page 3: Dept. 1300~Vocational Programs:
Mr. Ryan states that this program total is $10,588.10.

Page 3-4: Dept. 1400~Co-Curricular Programs:
Mr. Ryan continues noting discretionary items within this department. Ms. McNally states that “discretionary” seems to hint that the numbers are not going to be what they are listed as. Ms. McGann states that Mr. Ryan is only trying to clarify which sections are contractual commitments and where there is some ability for movement in lines.

Page 4: Dept. 1430~Summer School:
Mr. Ryan states that this program total is $3,830.60 noting that there is a decrease of $66.
 
Page 4: Dept. 2110~Attendance:
Mr. Ryan states that there is a total amount of $2.

Page 4-5: Dept. 2120~Guidance Services:
Mr. Ryan states that the first four items are contractual agreements; salaries, FICA, retirement, and standardized testing. Ms. Dole asks if the salary of the guidance counselor is part of a contract. Mr. Ryan replies yes. Ms. McGann further explains that there were some changes in personnel and salary increases. She adds that this was all based on staff and a warrant article was created to separate these items out. This will always be included within this line from this point forward. 

Page 5: Dept. 2130~Health Services:
Mr. Ryan states that this department increased by $3,237.65, an increase of 4.28%.

Page 5-6: Dept. 2140~Special Contracted Services:
Mr. Ryan states that this department shows an increase of $7,489.33, an increase of 5.76%. Ms. Dole explains that it was her understanding that the school was working on bringing the English as a second language (ESL) line down. She expresses concern that this line increases every year. She asks how long the program is and how the student is reevaluated. Ms. McGann explains that this is based on students with state guidelines used with the scores determining the required number of hours per week. Further discussion is held regarding the time that elapses pre/post assessments. Ms. McGann explains that throughout the program time assessments are done to determine growth throughout the year through the end of the year. Assessments are also within the program itself, which measures the rate of progress. Ms. Dole asks if there are any guidelines for the family and home where practicing is required so that the ESL service would not be required as long. Ms. McGann replies that there are no in home guidelines. She explains that the school supports training and activities for more experiences. She adds that social activities also promote a higher level of progress.

Page 6: Dept. 2150~Speech Services:
Mr. Ryan states that this department increased by $2,257.50, an increase of 2.7%.

Page 6: Dept. 2210~Improvement of Instruction:
Mr. Ryan states that the difference for this department is an increase of  $13,874.94. This is an increase of 34.48%. Ms. Behm asks if line 110/2 for staff mentors is a contractual item. Mr. Ryan replies yes and adds that this is a growing program seen over the past few years. Ms. McGann states that this is mandated due to No Child Left Behind.

Page 6-7: Dept. 2220~Library:
Mr. Ryan states that the increase is $7,061.08 or 12.31%. Ms. Asbell explains that the increases are due to the proposal to replace equipment, line 737/1 and 2. This would be for a table and a cart as they are falling apart. Also included in this department is the proposal for replacement parts for some equipment to up date and fix the existing equipment in some class rooms. She adds that there are step increase as well, which are contractual items. 

Page 7: Dept. 2225~Technology:
Mr. Ryan states that the increase is $34,593.39. Ms. Asbell refers to RSA 193-2 and explains that the increases are proposed new equipment, line 733/1. She states that the state has mandated technology standards, ICT standards. She explains that students K-8 will be required to do a digital portfolio for the class of 2011. This requires a traveling lab for the students. Ms. Asbell explains that this would provide mobility to the classrooms as the library now has classes. Another example is the students cannot do science labs within the library. She adds that a 5 year technology plan has been completed and was approved by the state.

Further discussion is held and Ms. Asbell states that there are currently 125 computers; 25 per year are scheduled for replacements. She adds that the school is proposing to update the computer monitors to flat screen monitors as they are more energy efficient. Ms. Asbell explains the daily computer usage throughout the school for teachers and students. Ms. Dole asks if this proposal is truly a must have. Ms. McGann adds that this is implemented in many schools in the district. Ms. Dole asks if it is necessary to have so many computers and laptops available and asks if there are more than what is needed. Ms. Asbell replies that with the mandated digital portfolio now it will be very difficult to meet the needs, transport kids to the computer area, and juggle the computer usage schedules. This proposal will meet the needs as it is a wireless lab. Further discussion is held regarding the computers and the need to have enough computers for the school in order for the students and staff to be efficient.

Page 7-8: Dept. 2310~School Board Services:
Mr. Ryan states that the increase is $11,038.03 or 24.18%. He explains that the primary contributor to the increase is the additional $12,000 for an attorney and negotiator for contracted services. He adds that the majority will be used for contractual costs. Mr. Ryan explains that the school board members usually take part in the contractual discussions and the contracts have become much more detailed. He adds that the assistance of a negotiator will be very useful. Mr. Ryan notes that the assistance of the school district clerk will also be utilized to archive documents.

Ms. McNally asks about line 119/10, school board salaries. She refers to the December 18 school board minutes, which state that the school board intends to pay the two replacement members a full stipend although they did not serve the entire year. She adds that this will then over expend the line. Mr. Ryan states that this is currently an item that the school board is discussing and will be further addressed at the Monday night meeting, January 7. He states that nothing is different than what has occurred before. Ms. Dole states that the members are prorated and paid for time served. In addition, Ms. Dole asks where the other school board members are today. Ms. Behm notes that the minutes refer to a decision being made in a non public session. She states that a motion cannot be made in a non public session; it is against the right to know law. She suggests that the board revisit the issues in a public session.

Discussion ensues regarding the payment of stipends for school board members. Mr. Ryan states that the school board members are in the midst of a process and they will not be doing anything unacceptable or illegal. Ms. Behm states that if the school board is considering setting a different precedent of stipends to members, the board should increase the line.

Marie Currier refers to line 330/30 regarding contracted services for an attorney and a negotiator. She asks why the line was over expended. Ms. McGann replies that this was due to discussions and negotiations as well as the legal fees for different issues to be addressed throughout the year. 

Ms. McNally asks for the date of discussions of the school board stipends and when the decision was released. Ms. McGann replies that she will provide the information. Ms. McNally states that she would like some rationalization why the discussion was even held where past practice has been established. Mr. Ryan states that the school board is now in discussion with the issue and the board is following the superintendant’s guidance. Ms. Dole states that an answer should be provided as there is money involved and that is what we are here to discuss. Ms. McNally states that this is a factual matter and again asks how and why the subject came up at the school board meeting. She asks if it was addressed due to the process of determining salaries. Mr. Ryan replies that the school board is in the process of determining salary processes and he can only answer as an individual as the school board members do not act independently.

Mr. McNally calls for a recess at 10:17 a.m. Session resumes at 10:33 a.m.

Mr. Johnson left the meeting during the recess.

Page 8: Dept. 2321~S.A.U.:
Mr. Ryan states that the SAU increase is $19,013.03. This is a 7.25%. Ms. McGann explains that the increases are mainly due to the moving of the SAU in the end of June as the building is up for sale. The increases cover the moving expenses and a rental agreement. She adds that she is not sure if the next place will include all facilities. In addition, 64% of the SAU budget was due to facility increases. Ms. McGann states that they have looked at another facility on Rte. 43 and are still in negotiations.

Page 8-9: Dept. 2410~Office of the Principal:
Mr. Ryan states that the increase total is $15,510.38 or 6.02%. Ms. Behm states that she feels that the department has a very moderate increase and it appears to be mainly due to salaries.

Page 9: Dept. 2520~Fiscal Services:
Mr. Ryan states that the increase is $9,028.98 or 14.93%. Ms. Dole states that it appears that the wages are the majority of the increase. Ms. McGann states that the increase is due to the specific position and hours required for the job. She states that this is an hourly paid position and administration is recommending to the school board that this be a salaried position. There are additional hours requested throughout the year that are not necessarily budgeted. She adds that this figure was based on expenditures of the previous years and overtime costs.

Ms. Dole states that it is not right to purposefully overspend the budget if the requirement is there. She adds that since it is an hourly paid position, the hours must be paid. She asks why the school board is deliberately under budgeting the position. Mr. Ryan states that the school board is reviewing the current activities and felt as though keeping the position as an hourly position was not unrealistic. He adds that discussion was held with the school board regarding how much overtime and time was spent in this position. Ms. McNally states that if overtime has not been included in the school board proposed wage line, she asks where the wages will come from. Mr. Ryan states that the school board must work this out with the principal and SAU.

Ms. Behm states that $49,000 represents a pay raise over what is spent and the overtime was $13,000. Ms. McNally states that $13,000 is a lot of money to have to find in a budget that is already tight. She adds that these funds will be taken away from areas that have some flexibility. Ms. Dole states that if the hours need to be worked, then the hours need to be budgeted for. She states that it is not fair to require the person in the position to attend meetings and then not allow them the time to do the work required.

In closing, Mr. Ryan replies that he is not sure as to the justification and the school board has not made a decision. He states that he will bring this back to the school board as an item to discuss.

Page 9-11: Dept. 2600~Operation and Maintenance of Plant:
A discussion is held regarding the custodial positions and wages. Mr. Ryan refers to line 110 and explains that the school has a hard time filling all of the vacancies for the custodians. These increases are due to additional help and wages. Ms. Asbell states that there are 4½ custodial positions and they are not all filled. Additional discussion is held regarding increases relative to changes in personnel as well as hiring at higher pay rates. Ms. Dole states that this is a substantial increase if there are no increases in the number of positions. She asks what the average salary for this position is. Ms. Asbell explains that the custodians have been hired to start at the lowest rate. With the new contract these positions are hired based on a level of experience. $16. per hour is an average rate of pay now.

Ms. Behm refers to line 430/3 and asks about the repairs to the building and the warrant article from last year as to where it is placed within the budget. It is later determined that the figures include the warrant articles monies. Overall, Mr. Ryan states that this section is reduced by $62,721.43, 11.16%.

Ms. McNally asks why this is such a large difference between the proposed lines for line 2660/430, contracted services. Ms. Asbell explains that this is a proposal for an updated phone system. She states that the current system was installed in the 80’s and should something break, the parts can only be reconditioned. The current system does not accommodate voice mail for each teacher either. Ms. Asbell explains that the parents are expressing frustration and are requesting a more immediate way for communications. Ms. Asbell states that the quote is within the line; it would be more to recondition the phones if there were a problem than it would be to replace the entire system.

Mr. Jacobsmeyer arrives @ 11:00 a.m.

Page 11: Dept. 2700~Transportation Services:
Ms. Asbell explains the bus schedule proposed last year. She states that one wave of busses was allowing for a ½ hour delay while having 225 students outside in the a.m. and the afternoon. This also required coverage from a paraprofessional. With the new schedule the students are within a 10 minute window within the class room, which works the same way in the afternoon. In turn this allows all students to have the same proportion of time in school and on the bus. She adds that there has also been a reduction in bullying. Ms. Asbell states that overall, this has worked really well.

Page 11: Dept. 4000~Building Improvements:
Mr. Ryan states that there is nothing proposed for this coming year. Ms. McNally asks about the planning board’s study showing an enrollment analysis. Ms. McGann states that they are in the process of having the analysis done now.

Page 11: Dept. 5100~Debt Service:
Mr. Ryan notes that this continues to be reduced every year as the debt is paid off more each year.

Page 11: Dept. 5200~Capital Reserve:
Ms. McGann states that there is nothing proposed at this time. Ms. McNally expresses concern regarding funds and not being able to receive the needs due to special education. She asks if there is a way to have the capital reserve fund so there would not be a need to wait until School District Meeting in March. Ms. McGann states that the school board could present a warrant article. Ms. McNally encourages the school board to present a warrant article so that the rest of the student population is not penalized as one section of the school needs to pay bills. Mr. Ryan states that this will be discussed at the next school board meeting.

Page 11-12: Dept. 3100~Food Services:
Mr. Ryan explains that there is a need for new furniture and new equipment as there is some equipment that does not meet state standards. He adds that also proposed is an increase for a computer program for the director for calculating the lunch program for the students. Mr. Tappan explains that the new system will be a point of sale system for the food service staff. The system will allow for a more accurate process that would be trackable for student’s meals. He added that this is recommended by the state.

Ms. McNally states that the enrollment form provided today does not include the students from CBNA. Mr. Ryan states that there are 280 students in CBNA. Ms. McNally requests that the enrollment forms reflect all students in the Northwood school district. Ms. Currier requests a per child cost rate, for all schools. Ms. McGann explains that the state report is one year behind. It is for the year before. Ms. Behm states that the annual basis is in the high $8,000 range. She adds that it is a formula based report.

Budget Summary
Mr. Ryan states that the school board’s proposed budget is $11,573,462.76, an increase of $775,864.04 or 7.19%. Mr. Ryan asks when the revenues are added in. Ms. McGann replies that previous revenues are used to propose the revenues for the upcoming year. Mr. Ryan states that with the food service total amount proposed for $144,614.84, the school board total operating budget for 2008-2009 is $11,718,077.60.

Warrant Articles:
Mr. Ryan reviews the warrant articles as follows:
1. School Operating Budget: No discussion is held.

2. $20,000. Upgrading the Athletic Fields: No discussion is held.

3. $17,404. Upgrading the Courtyard Area: (flag pole area of the school grounds and erosion repair).

4. $25,000. Capital Reserve Fund– RSA Ch. 35: Ms. Dole asks for the balance in the fund. Ms. Colburn replies $86,000.

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

6. $10,200. Summer Month Student Support Program: Ms. Dole asks for an explanation of how the money will be utilized. Ms. McGann states that this warrant article is the recommendation of the school board. She explains that this is based on the state assessment scores as well as local assessment scores from different grade levels. She further explains that the figure proposed is also based on three age groups; lower, middle, and upper throughout K-8 with the approximate numbers of staff required for each group. This is assuming a lower ratio for the number of staff to students, 3 staff with one specific for each group as well as one floater. Ms. Asbell adds that this proposed program will follow the same summer schedule for 6 weeks, three times a week at 4 hours per day. She notes that also included is money for supplies.

Further discussion is held regarding funds being compensated for this program. Ms. Asbell explains that Northwood is a designated school district based on need of improvement. Ms. Asbell explains that the state requires a team of teachers that make up a “phase one”. Recommendations were requested on how to appropriate the funds, “phase two”. Further explanation is provided in how the school is designated as a school in need of improvement. Ms. Asbell states that overall the scores are close and they will be anticipating targeting the entire school population.

Articles 7, 8, and 9 do not have any money values.

Ms. Dole requested that the worksheets next year show anticipated for 07-08. Ms. McGann replies that they will provide updated financial statements for next year.

With no further discussion, Mr. McNally closes the public portion of the school budget at 11:30 a.m. and the committee breaks for lunch at this time. Session resumes at 12:40 p.m.

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

Budget Committee Packets:
Ms. Weaver reviews the members packets distributed today with the following information:
• Town Budget
• Budget Committee Procedures
• RSA relative to budgeting and budget committees
• November 11, 2007 minutes
• January Budget Calendar

Basic Laws of Budgeting booklets purchased from LGC are made available for members to review.

Minutes:
Lucy Edwards makes a motion, second by Bob Holden, to approve the minutes of November 11, 2007, as amended. Discussion is held regarding the need for further information that was requested at the November meeting. Ms. Edwards withdraws her motion and Mr. Holden withdraws his second. The May 15 and November 11 minutes will be reviewed at the next meeting.

Memberships
A resignation has been received from Tammie Beaulieu. Additional discussion is held regarding advertising for new members or to continue with existing members as new members will be elected in March. Ms. Edwards states that due to the lateness of the timing, she suggests that the board try harder to get people to attend the quarterly meetings. Ms. Smith refers to the RSA regarding attendance and notes that Mr. Briggs is not in compliance of the requirements as he has missed more than 3 meetings in a row. After discussions, Bob Holden makes a motion, second by Herb Johnson, for the budget committee to continue with the existing group and expand the members after this budget season. VOTE: YES: RH, RB, CP, NH, LE, HJ, JJ, JR, DM. NO: BE. Motion passes; 9/1.

The committee agrees to address the budget by sections.

Page: 1-2: Dept. 1100~Regular Education:
Ms. Edwards makes a motion to recommend the administration proposed  amount of $6,597,763.36. Mr. Bailey seconds. A discussion is held regarding substitute teacher’s wages, lines 1100/120. Mr. Ryan states that the school board increased the hourly rate of the substitutes as there have been problems getting substitutes. Mr. Johnson amends the motion to recommend the school board amount of $$6,587,763.69. Ms. Pingree seconds. Amendment VOTE: YES: RH, BE, RB, CP, NH, LE, HJ, JJ, JR, DM. Motion passes unanimously; 10/0. Mr. Holden refers to the overall increase over the past two years, which is $2.1 million. He notes that there were only six people present in the public today. He expresses concern and struggles with the increases. Ms. Edwards states that there is a great amount of increases which are contractual agreements. She adds that any cuts done by the committee will be money that will come from the lines that are not mandated. Ms. Edwards adds that the solution may not be solely within the Town of Northwood. Mr. Bailey notes that there is an increase in the population, with students, the need for more teachers, and more subjects to teach. He adds that CBNA has the same problem. Ms. Pingree states that she feels that the proposed budget is a good budget that all involved have struggled to find areas to cut. She states that the principal has presented a bare bones budget and there really is not any excess.

Mr. Holden suggests that the board review a model budget states that runs the budget without contracts and unfunded mandates. Mr. Ryan states that Mr. Tappan has presented him a document noting the items not controlled by contracts. Mr. Ryan states the mandates always increase, the students always increase, and then the budget increases. Mr. Ryan states that there would only be 1-2% overall.

Ms. Edwards states that if a budget is created responsibly, it is created to what the board believes is what it will cost to run the school and town. She adds that the entities are not allowed to overspend the bottom lines. 

Ms. McGann explains that the school district’s budget portion is 4%. 96% of the budget is already set under contracts and agreements. 4% is what they can work with. $5,000 was cut by administration prior to going to the school board. It was justifiable as some periodicals were removed as they were being replaced with the new reading program. She continues to explain that the total increase was $27,645 or the 4%. $21,656 was decreased due to the budgeting processes. In closing she notes that the actual balance that was increased in the discretionary items was $5,989.

In closing, Mr. Holden states that he feels that the budget on a whole has enough support to pass; however, he is concerned with the criticisms that the committee and school board may receive in March. VOTE: YES: RH, BE, RB, CP, NH, LE, HJ, JJ, JR, DM. Motion passes unanimously; 10/0.

Page 2-3: Dept. 1200~Special Education Programs:
Mr. Holden makes a motion to recommend the school board amount of $2,092,610.79 for Total Special Education Programs. Mr. Johnson seconds. VOTE: YES: RH, BE, RB, CP, NH, LE, HJ, JJ, JR, DM. Motion passes unanimously; 10/0.

Page 3: Dept. 1300~Vocational Programs:
Mr. Johnson makes a motion, second by Ms. Edwards, to recommend the school board amount of $10,588.10. VOTE: YES: RH, BE, RB, CP, NH, LE, HJ, JJ, JR, DM. Motion passes unanimously; 10/0.

Page 3-4: Dept. 1400~Co-Curriular Activities:
Mr. Holden makes a motion, second by Ms. Pingree, to recommend the school board amount of $57,035.93. VOTE: YES: RH, BE, RB, CP, NH, LE, HJ, JJ, JR, DM. Motion passes unanimously; 10/0.

Page 4: Dept. 1430~Summer School:
Ms. Edwards makes a motion, second by Mr. Johnson, to recommend the school board amount of $3,830.60. VOTE: YES: RH, BE, RB, CP, NH, LE, HJ, JJ, JR, DM. Motion passes unanimously; 10/0.

Page 4: Dept. 2110~Attendance:
Ms. Edwards makes a motion, second by Mr. Holden, to recommend the school board proposed amount of $2. VOTE: YES: RH, BE, RB, CP, NH, LE, HJ, JJ, JR, DM. Motion passes unanimously; 10/0.

Page 4-5: Dept. 2120~Guidance Services:
Mr. Holden makes a motion, second by Ms. Edwards, to recommend the school board proposed amount of $106,850.35. VOTE: YES: RH, BE, RB,
CP, NH, LE, HJ, JJ, JR, DM. Motion passes unanimously; 10/0.

Page 5: Dept. 2130~Health Services:
Ms. Edwards makes a motion, second by Mr. Johnson, to recommend the school board proposed amount of $78,903.23. VOTE: YES: RH, BE, RB, CP, NH, LE, HJ, JJ, JR, DM. Motion passes unanimously; 10/0.

Page 5-6: Dept. 2140~Special Contracted Services:
Ms. Pingree makes a motion, second by Ms. Edwards, to recommend the school board proposed amount of $134,428. VOTE: YES: RH, BE, RB, CP, NH, LE, HJ, JJ, JR, DM. Motion passes unanimously; 10/0.

Page 6: Dept. 2150~Speech Services:
Ms. Edwards makes a motion, second by Mr. Johnson, to recommend the school board amount of $85,833.50. With no discussion, VOTE: YES: RH, BE, RB, CP, NH, LE, HJ, JJ, JR, DM. Motion passes unanimously; 10/0.

Page 6: Dept. 2210~Improvement of Instruction:
Mr. Johnson makes a motion, second by Mr. Holden, to recommend the school board amount of $54,112.94. With no discussion, VOTE: YES: RH, BE, RB, CP, NH, LE, HJ, JJ, JR, DM. Motion passes unanimously; 10/0.

Page 6-7: Dept. 2220~Library:
Ms. Edwards makes a motion, second by Mr. Bailey, to recommend the school board amount of $64,404.80. Ms. Pingree asks about the salary for the librarian. Ms. Asbell explains the salary schedule. She adds that included in the line is longevity in addition to a step. VOTE: YES: RH, BE, RB, CP, NH, LE, HJ, JJ, JR, DM. Motion passes unanimously; 10/0. 

Page 7: Dept. 2225~Technology:
Mr. Holden makes a motion, second by Ms. Edwards, to recommend the school board amount of $130,919.39. Mr. Johnson expresses concern with the wireless laptops in addition to the 25 computer replacements. He adds that he does not feel that the change of the flat top monitors will be a substantial savings in electricity. Mr. Holden supports the spending for the laptops as the future is the computer. Ms. Pingree asks if any of the portfolio work can be done at home. Ms. Asbell replies that this is an integration of the curriculum and needs to be done in the school. VOTE: YES: RH, BE, RB, CP, NH, LE, HJ, JJ, JR, DM. Motion passes unanimously; 10/0. 

Page 7-8: Dept. 2310~School Board Services:
Ms. Edwards makes a motion, second by Mr. Holden, to recommend the school board amount of $56,686.03. A discussion is held regarding salaries of the school board members. Mr. Ryan states that this is a 5 member board with the members receiving $2,000 and the chair $2,500. He states that the majority of the work is done at this time of year. Ms. Pingree states that it is surprising to not see the rest of school board members at this meeting. She feels that the members are doing a disservice to the chair. She adds that it is also surprising to pay two members $2,000 for only 3-4 months of work. Mr. Ryan states that no decisions on salaries have been made to date. He adds that new information has been received. VOTE: YES: RH, BE, RB, CP, NH, LE, HJ, JJ, JR, DM. Motion passes unanimously; 10/0. 

Page 8: Dept. 2321~Expenses-S.A.U.#44:
Ms. Edwards makes a motion, second by Mr. Holden, to recommend the school board amount of $281,424. A discussion is held regarding a detailed breakdown being provided as it is an item usually provided. Mr. Holden makes a motion, second by Ms. Edwards, to postpone any further discussion until the committee can review an itemized spreadsheet for the SAU. Ms. McGann explains that the SAU has already voted on their budget and it cannot be changed. Ms. Smith states that the budget committee still has a right to recommend a figure. Mr. Tappan states that the responsibility is only for the district and that is where the responsibility ends. Ms. Edwards states that she would like to look at the figures. She adds that there is a responsibility of the budget committee to look at all figures and provide explanations. VOTE: YES: RH, BE, RB, CP, NH, LE, HJ, JJ, JR, DM. Motion passes unanimously; 10/0. The motion and second are withdrawn.

Page 8-9: Dept. 2410~Office of the Principal:
Ms. Edwards makes a motion, second by Mr. Johnson, to recommend the school board amount of $273,016.81. VOTE: YES: RH, BE, RB, CP, NH, LE, HJ, JJ, JR, DM. Motion passes unanimously; 10/0.

Page 9: Dept. 2520~Fiscal Services:
Mr. Johnson makes a motion, second by Mr. Holden, to recommend the school board amount of $62,052.38. Mr. McNally notes that the figures are incorrect. Mr. Tappan states that he believes the administration figures are correct for associated expenses for salaries. Ms. Edwards states that there is also a difference in the title for the finance assistant. Ms. McGann states that the title should be the same. Ms. Edwards also notes that the financial statement dated 12/17/07 the line is overspent as well with projected figures. Ms. Asbell explains that there was an overage with the overtime and that is why the administration is proposing a salaried position; to avoid overtime and maintain the position as a salaried position. The school board recommended keeping the position as a 40 hour work week position with a 3% raise. Mr. Ryan replies that the school board questioned if the over time is really required. He states the position needs additional information and discussion.

Further discussion is held if there was enough discussion held at the school board meeting regarding the matter. Ms. Pingree states that there was a brief discussion at the school board meeting regarding cutting the line item. Mr. Ryan states that maybe there should have been additional discussion. He feels that the figures may not be correct and this needs to be further reviewed. Mr. Holden makes a motion, second by Ms. Pingree, to postpone any further discussion until the item is revisited by the school board. VOTE: YES: RH, BE, RB, CP, NH, LE, HJ, JJ, JR, DM. Motion passes unanimously; 10/0.

New figures are provided from Judy McGann as follows:
Total Salary-Line 110/40: $61,047.06
Total F.I.C.A.-Line 220: $3,762.11
Total Retirement-Line 231: $2,852.
Ms. Pingree states that she would like to see a description and a breakdown of the overtime hours, general job description, and comparative figures per other school. Mr. Ryan states that this district is unique; however, he will make every effort to obtain the information. Motion and second are rescinded.

Page 9-11: Dept. 2600~Operation and Maintenance of Plant:
Mr. Johnson makes a motion, second by Mr. Holden, to recommend the school board amount of $499,338.22. A discussion is held regarding line 430/3, the wing wall. Mr. Ryan explains that it has been leaking for years and notes other deficiencies. Mr. Holden asks if this should be included as a capital improvement as it has impacts to the percentages. Ms. McGann states that the money needs to be appropriated. Mr. Ryan states that it was a warrant article and now needs to be placed in the budget. Mr. Holden makes a motion, second by Ms. Pingree, to postpone any further discussion until there is more information. Mr. McNally notes that there appears to be some line numbers listed twice as well. VOTE: YES: RH, BE, RB, CP, NH, LE, HJ, JJ, JR, DM. Motion passes unanimously; 10/0. The motion and second are rescinded.

Page 11: Dept. 2700~Transportation Services:
Mr. Holden makes a motion, second by Ms. Pingree, to recommend the school board amount of $588,142. VOTE: YES: RH, BE, RB, CP, NH, LE, HJ, JJ, JR, DM. Motion passes unanimously; 10/0.

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

Page 11: Dept. 5100~Debt Service:
Mr. Johnson makes a motion, second by Ms. Edwards, to recommend the school board amount of $402,520. VOTE: YES: RH, BE, RB, CP, NH, LE, HJ, JJ, JR, DM. Motion passes unanimously; 10/0.
Page 11: Dept. 5200~Capital Reserve Fund:
No money involved.

Page 11-12: Dept. 3100~Food Service:
Mr. Holden makes a motion, second by Mr. Johnson, to recommend the school board amount of $144,614.84. A discussion is held regarding the point of sale system proposed for the food service department. Ms. McGann adds that this is a federal mandate. VOTE: YES: BE, RB, CP, NH, LE, HJ, JJ, JR, DM. NO: RH. Motion passes; 9/1.

Warrant Articles:
Mr. Holden makes a motion, second by Mr. Edwards, to postpone discussions of the warrant articles to the next meeting. VOTE: YES: RH, BE, RB, CP, NH, LE, HJ, JJ, JR, DM. NO: CP. Motion passes; 9/1.

Ms. Pingree asks if the warrant articles are recommended by school board. Ms. McGann replies yes.  

At 2:50 p.m. Ms. Edwards makes a motion, second by Mr. Holden, to recess until Monday, January 7, at 7:00 p.m. Motion passes unanimously. 

Respectfully submitted,

Lisa Fellows-Weaver
Board Secretary