A potpourri of capital budget requests for the fiscal year 2015 town budget were discussed on Wednesday evening in the conference room of the Marion Recreation Facility on Atlantis Avenue.
The Marion Finance Committee met to review department and committee requests and formulate recommendations, recommend funding sources and strategy, and conduct any other business related to the town’s finances.
Using a projected estimate of total fiscal year 2015 level-funded operating budget expenses, the committee estimates a total budget of $19,913,730 which has the town in the red approximately $51,555. The budget is an estimate, with many variables. “This is where we are with level services,” said Chairman Alan Minard.
A 14-page handout meticulously documented each area of estimated revenue and funding sources. It was clear that the all-volunteer board had done their homework and is working effectively to see that the town’s finances are well managed.
A storm-related expenses category was discussed due to its $100,000 estimate. “What about looking into snow insurance,” asked member Peter Winters. The FY14 budget went over the storm-related budgeted amount, and the Board of Selectmen recently approved an additional $38,000 to make up for the shortfall.
Another item of note included two police vehicles that are being retired from service. “The Council on Aging is seeking another vehicle and perhaps one of these can be used,” said Minard.
Various projects were discussed, including the proposed installation of vinyl flooring in parts of Sippican School. The board discussed making the project into a multi-year effort to reduce the requested amount in the budget for next year.
Facilities Director Sean Cormier attended and spoke regarding a $1,400 increase in the budget for the Elizabeth Taber Library for a proposed repainting project. The issue of having a full-time town nurse was also discussed.
The board made no decisions regarding these issues, but weighed in on the impact the various requests would have on the upcoming budget.
Member Karen Kevelson said that the town needs more members on the Town House Renovation committee. “We want a fresh look and don’t want to be restricted by past decisions on the issue,” said Kevelson. Anyone interested in serving on the committee should contact Facilities Director Sean Cormier at 508-217-8355. Lastly, Minard noted that Cormier is a qualified Owner Project Manager who will oversee whatever construction decisions are made regarding the Town House.
By Joan Hartnett-Barry
