We are likely to be asked again for an override to meet budgetary needs. In a past issue the Press printed the schools’ budget. I know that many of us look through and have many questions: Is this really necessary? Is what we pay for salaries a fair amount? What will our students lose if we do not pass this override? When analyzing any budget you have to know all your costs to make wise decisions as to what you can cut and what you must have. The schools’ budget and the town’s budget are very similar in size and yet, we do not have the breakdown of how the administrators of the town are spending those funds. I encourage the Harvard Press and the town to disclose their budget with a detailed breakdown of all expenses.
I would especially like to know how salaries are raised and why people are being given bonuses. As far as I understand, bonuses are given to people who go above and beyond their job or who have assisted in bringing in unexpected funds. Don’t get me wrong. There are people in both the town and the schools who deserve bonuses. However, I don’t understand how money that we don’t have keeps being allocated to additional expenses.
The town’s budget affects my budget and just like I have to make hard choices for my spending, I would like to see the town’s report so we all can ask questions and understand better why we may need this override and what makes it that we keep having to be asked for more. I want to support our town’s growth and continued beauty. I believe that having all the information in front of us will help us all feel better about the ask.
Kate Stamm
Old Littleton Road
