Northborough
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K-8 Override FAQsHow much is the override? Why couldn’t the budget come in within the town’s target increase of 3.75%? The FY 2009 budget represents a level services budget. The only increases are due to cover contractual negotiations for teachers and transportation and staff increases where necessary to maintain class size. Are any new initiatives proposed in this budget? Recognizing the difficult financial times, the budget does not contain any new initiatives in this budget as it is a level services budget. What actions have been taken to try to meet the 3.75% target? On April 2nd, the budget was reduced approximately $184,000 from $316,000 to the current level of $131,000. To achieve the savings, fees for summer services and student activities will be instituted next year accounting for approximately $26,000. Two custodial positions have been eliminated for a savings of $72,650. As a result, outside groups using the schools at night will be required to pay for the evening custodians. An additional $58,000 was saved on an out-of-district placement. An additional $25,000 was cut from various other accounts. What is the position of the Appropriations Committee on the override? The Appropriations Committee unanimously recommended approval of the override with one abstention. Their report states, “It is to be noted that in careful analysis of the Northborough K-8 Schools core budget, the Appropriations Committee recognizes that all cuts have been made that can be made without impacting the delivery of quality direct educational services.” What will happen if the override does not pass? If the override does not pass an additional .75 FTE custodial position will be cut. A behavioral specialist at the Middle School and a yet to be determined elementary teacher position will be eliminated. What is the estimated impact of the override on my tax bill? For the average home assessed at $418,400 the override will cost about $21 per year.
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