| It was with a high degree of professionalism that William Scibelli, Longmeadow selectman, conducted his Power Point presentation at the forum to discuss the upcoming override. Hundreds of numbers that numbed the brain but did nothing to explain why just six months after setting the 2008 budget, the town has asked for $1,050,000 additional over the $1,100,000 needed for the teachers contracts. As the presentation closed, it was revealed that monies for 2009 and 2010 were included in their figures. Scibelli showed his compassionate side by saying that it was difficult for him to keep coming back each year to ask for more, so they want to get the next three year's needs out of the way now. I think I would rather keep my money now, and pay the town for those out years when the bills come due. As you can tell from the above, the 2008 budget is already short that $1,050,000 for this year. How can we trust their forecast for 2009 and 2010 when their track record is so miserable for current expenditures? In any event, the town ballot states that they want $2,150,000 for "purposes of funding the school and town operating budgets and school and town collective bargaining agreements." No explanation of what the money will be used for. Just give them a blank check and step aside. Their performance to date hasn't earned them such freedom. It was also evident from the audience reaction that the new water/sewer rates have caused great concern. Much is needed to be explained about the causes of this increase. I will write about that in a future letter. Sam Altman Longmeadow |
