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On January 1, 2008, the Brockton EmptyPrize printed a letter to the editor by Mark Coelho that criticized Rep. Calter's position on the Middleboro Casino.

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On Thursday, January 17, Rep. Calter addressed an SRO audience in the Middleboro Library.

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Rep. Calter was available to explain the issues and answer questions.

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Were you there Mr. Coelho?

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I didn't see the media there either.

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And the vocal casino supporters who were there failed to ask questions, yet they subsequently misrepresented what transpired on other blogs.

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The Middleboro BOS has somewhat arrogantly requested that Rep. Calter attend one of their meetings to explain his position. Mr. Coelho, I can only hope you will attend, along with many others to ask your questions and listen for an explanation.

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Hopefully, the Middleboro BOS will have the sense to convene this meeting at the Middleboro High School and an overflow crowd will ask their questions.

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Mr. Coelho asked: "What is your plan to save our schools?" "What is your plan to save our town services?"

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In fairness, Middleboro has a Town Meeting form of government. That means that voters have an opportunity to determine spending and make choices.

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On November 5, 2007, Middleboro held a Special Town Meeting that was a grab bag of hastily prepared information and warrant articles that spent most of the town's piggy bank from the land auctions.

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The Finance Committee received some of the information regarding those articles that very afternoon. Why was the information withheld from the FinCom and voters?

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One must wonder who is watching and who is asking questions when this transpires?

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How do you understand the issues if the information is deliberately withheld from you by the Middleboro BOS?

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Prop. 2 1/2 provided limitations to town spending of 2 1/2% PER YEAR PLUS NEW GROWTH.

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Simply put, you can't negotiate contracts that provide 36% pay raises, as Mr. Perkins has done and expect the numbers to work.

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Rather than blaming our state reps. or others as the Middleboro Selectmen continually do, isn't it about time to accept some responsibility and recognize that WE, the voters of Middleboro HAVE CHOICES.

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We can make a concerted effort to understand how town government works, where the information is, where the money is, and attend Town Meeting.

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Have a complaint or question? Stand up at Town Meeting!

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The Town has been told that we may need a new ladder truck at a cost of $900,000.

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The City of Boston is buying new ladder trucks that cost $630,000.

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Why the price difference? Are the ladders shorter? Fewer wheels?

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Few of the recommendations from the DOR Report have been adopted. Is anyone asking why?

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Quarterly real estate tax bills have been estimated to generate $50,000 PER MONTH by the Town Treasurer.

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Have the Middleboro Selectmen accomplished it? They discussed it in 2003.

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Much can be accomplished with participation. Are you ready?

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Instead of criticizing Rep. Calter for his opposition to the flawed Agreement that will bankrupt Middleboro, why aren't we asking where our other Reps. are?

New Forum

The following was posted on the NEW FORUM.

To join the discussion or comment, click the link on the right of the screen.

Last year, when the Annual Town Report was being discussed, some may remember that the inclusion of sex offenders was made a big deal, and was ultimately included.

Little noticed, amidst the hysteria regarding the sex offenders, was the concern about enumerating the pay of certain town employees.

Of particular note during the discussions were police officers who work POLICE DETAILS.

Were those wages not itemized, their pay would appear unfairly distorted.

If you review the 2005 Annual Town Report (these represent 2 year old figures), you will find among the listings, these gross pay amounts (on pages 300-301):

Police Officer 88,411.00
Police Lieutenant 130,071.51
Police Sergeant 103,546.60
Police Sergeant 120,098.32
Police Officer 89,467.05
Police Officer 107,869.07
Police Officer 74,574.20
Police Officer 61,605.90
Police Officer 102,030.80
Police Officer 81,573.49
Police Officer 90,274.18
Police Lieutenant 144,134.34
Police Officer 77,859.12
Police Officer 85,326.47
Police Officer 83,414.49
Police Sergeant 87,368.79
Detective/Sergeant 132,870.15
Police Sergeant 110,241.86
Detective 94,597.18
Police Officer 83,582.21
Detective 100,954.67
Police Sergeant 110,091.35
Police Officer 107,164.69
Police Officer 119,941.82


On Pages 302 - 303, you will find the following among the listings, again gross pay amounts:

Fire Chief 87,161.72
Fire Captain 117,961.58
Fire Captain 87,676.71
Fire Captain 93,394.63
Fire Captain 80,428.74
Fire Captain 103,428.30
Deputy Chief 71,744.84

I have reviewed my 2006 copy of the Annual Town Report and find no listing of wages.

Perhaps those pages were omitted from my copy.

You can find a copy of the Annual Town Report in the Middleboro Public Library or in the Town Manager's Office.

Check for yourself.


'Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it's the only thing that ever has.' Margaret Mead

Municipal Job Openings

In order to understand Middleboro's fiscal situation, it's helpful to monitor other municipalities, their structures, their pay scales.

The following are listed on the MMA site:

City Auditor, City of Gloucester

The city of Gloucester is seeking applications for the position of City Auditor. This position is appointed by and reports to the city council. The Auditor is responsible for keeping the accounts of the city, maintaining the required financial records and the control of fund expenditures. The Auditor is also responsible for the development of reports illustrating the city’s financial condition and oversight of the city's financial management system. The Auditor provides financial analysis as requested by the city council including cost benefit analysis for budget and contract proposals. The Auditor serves as: liaison with independent auditing firms conducting the annual audit; ex-officio member of the Gloucester contributory retirement system and a voting member of the Gloucester community development loan committee and the tax incentive finance committee. This position requires a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in accounting and five to seven years of job-related experience; or any equivalent combination of education and experience. A master’s degree in accounting is preferred. Certification with the Massachusetts Municipal Auditor and Accounting Association is preferred. Prior municipal experience with supervisory responsibilities is preferred. Salary range: $58,353-$75,478, depending upon qualifications, excellent benefits are available. Please send resume and cover letter to City Clerk, City of Gloucester, 9 Dale Ave., Gloucester, MA 01930. Please place the word “Auditor” on the envelope. This solicitation will close on Jan. 31, 2008. (posted 12/19, exp. 1/31/08) MMA

Town Accountant
Town of Northborough

The town administrator’s office is currently accepting applications for the position of Town Accountant. Responsible for the oversight of the accounting office; development of reports illustrating the town’s financial condition; the maintenance of financial records; and the control of town fund expenditures. Position requires a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in accounting and five to seven years of job-related experience; or any equivalent combination of education and experience. Master’s degree in accounting is preferred and certification with the Massachusetts Municipal Auditor and Accounting Association is highly desirable. Prior municipal experience and supervisory experience is desirable. Salary range: $60,761-$78,989, depending upon qualifications, plus excellent benefits. Please send resume and letter of interest to Town Administrator, 63 Main St., Northborough, MA 01532. Submission deadline: Dec. 21, 2007, or until filled. AA/EOE (posted 12/03, exp.1/03/08) MMA

Town Accountant

Town of Marshfield

The town of Marshfield (budget $79 million) is seeking qualified applicants for the position of Town Accountant. The Town Accountant is a key member of the town’s financial team that also includes the town administrator and treasurer collector. Specific responsibilities include maintenance of accounting records in accordance with the UMAS system, GASB and DOR regulations; preparation of Schedule A, the tax recap sheet and other required reports; preparation and approval of payroll and vendor warrants and performance of other required duties of the Town Accountant. Duties include, but are not limited to, accounting for revenues and expenditures, financial analysis and reporting, and assistance with budget preparation. The applicant should have strong communication skills and be willing and able to work in a team environment. A thorough knowledge of UMAS, GASB and Massachusetts General Laws relating to municipal finance and experience with Excel and municipal accounting software ( i.e Softright) is essential. Requirements also include a bachelor’s degree in accounting or related field plus a minimum of five years’ experience in Massachusetts municipal accounting. Maximum salary for qualified selected candidate is $80,000. Salary dependent upon qualifications. Applications are requested by Jan. 4, 2007. Please submit resume and cover letter to Town Accountant Search Committee, Town of Marshfield Board of Selectmen, 870 Moraine St., Marshfield, MA 02050. (posted 11/28, exp. 1/04/08) MMA

Fire Chief, Town of Bedford

The town of Bedford (population 13,102) seeks qualified candidates for the position of Fire Chief. The Fire Chief reports to the town manager and supervises 26 firefighters. Primary responsibilities include, but are not limited to; oversight of the fire department’s personnel, collective bargaining preparation with the town manager, maintenance of firefighting equipment and apparatus, establishment of training programs, maintenance of related records of departmental activity, on-scene command in serious/unusual emergency situations, formulation departmental policies, rules, regulations and procedures, preparation of departmental budget. Ten years of firefighting and command experience and an associate’s degree in fire science or administration or an equivalent combination of training and experience required. Desirable candidate will have a minimum of fifteen years of firefighting and command experience and a bachelor’s in administration or related field. Initial screening of candidates will be conducted in early March, 2008. Normal starting salary for FY08: $75,913-$92,044, depending on experience and education. The town of Bedford offers a comprehensive and generous benefits package. Application for employment may be downloaded at http://www.bedfordma.org . Please send resume, application, and letter of interest to Jessica Porter, Human Resources/Management Analyst, Town of Bedford, 10 Mudge Way Bedford, MA 01730 or fax to (781) 275-6310. Position will remain open until filled. The town of Bedford is an Affirmative Action / Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. (posted 12/20, exp. 1/20/08) MMA

Fire Chief

Town of Wrentham

The town of Wrentham is seeking an experienced individual to lead its full-service fire/emergency medical service department. The department’s uniformed staff includes the chief, deputy chief, four captains, 12 full-time firefighters, and 15 call firefighters, with an annual budget of $1.5 million. Wrentham is a high-growth community of 10,500 plus residents, located south of Boston, Mass. and north of Providence, Rhode Island. This position requires a bachelor’s degree in fire science, public or business administration or a related field. An EFO or CFO Certificate is desirable. A minimum of 10 years of fire/emergency medical services management experience with a wide-range of duties in fire/emergency services operations and management is required. A record of increasing responsibilities with strong professional, administrative leadership in a growing community is an important consideration. Past experiences must demonstrate a record of team building, dealing with growth planning, management, finance and human resources related to fire and emergency medical service. The applicant also must be familiar with state fire and building codes. Required licenses and certifications are as follows: Comm. of Mass. certified EMT-B (minimum) and a valid Comm. of Mass. Driver’s License within one year are required. Initial salary negotiable within existing range: $75,000-95,000, dependent upon qualifications and experience, supplemented by an excellent benefit package. The successful candidate would also be required to relocate to Wrentham or any contiguous town within one year of the appointment. Applicants shall submit a letter of application, detailed resume with salary history and work related references to: Mrs. Cindy Thompson, Wrentham Town Hall, 79 South St., Room 213, Wrentham, MA 02093, by Dec.31, 2007. (No e-mail or fax submissions will be accepted). The town of Wrentham is an Equal Opportunity Employer. (posted 11/26, exp. 12/31) MMA

IT Network Administrator

Town of Winchester

The town of Winchester (population 20,000) is seeking an IT Network Administrator. Under the supervision of the information technologies director, the Network Administrator will have overall responsibility for the day to day operation of the town’s local area and wide area networks. The Network Administrator will be responsible for network security, maintaining software/user licenses and for providing software and hardware troubleshooting assistance to departments. Position is responsible for the implementation, integration and system administration of servers, printers, and personal computers into the town’s network. Responsibilities: analyze current LAN/WAN and introduce future applications to meet the needs of the town services and operations; and update the town’s Web site and maintain the overall infrastructure of the website. B.S. in computer systems or equivalent required with minimum of three years’ experience in network computing and distributed systems, particularly with Windows Server systems; knowledge of Microsoft Exchange 2003, Cisco hardware and operating systems; and knowledge of networking protocols with emphasis on TCP/IP, HTML and JAVA, JavaScript, and graphic user interfaces. Salary range: $46,000-$65,188 depending upon qualifications and experience. Send cover letter and resume by December 28, 2007, to Melvin Kleckner, Town Manager, 71 Mt. Vernon St., Winchester, MA 01890, MMA

Soaring Health Care Costs & Middleboro

The impact of escalating health care costs on Education Reform were partially addressed in the Boston Herald article (below), but Middleboro voters should be aware that the town currently pays 90% of employees' health care premiums and provides a $5 co-pay and prescription drug coverage.

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Others municipalities have placed their retirees on Medicare.

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No other municipality provides 90% payment of premiums.

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If you find one of 351 cities and towns, please forward the information.

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If you find a private employer that provides those benefits, please forward the information.

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If you believe that Middleboro can't successfully live within its revenues, how much could the town save by amending ONLY health care ?
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If YOU don't approve contracts at Town Meeting, it's back to the drawing board.
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Soaring health costs sicken school reform
By Edward Moscovitch Friday, December 21, 2007
Runaway inflation in health-care costs poses a severe threat to school reform in Massachusetts.
Yes, you read that right.
A recent analysis by the Department of Education (DoE) shows that spending on health care for school employees rose a stunning 12.3 percent per year from 2002 through 2006. At that rate, spending on health insurance doubles every six years. It thus outstrips the increase in other costs (3.4 percent per year over the same period) and the national price index used to adjust the state’s foundation education budget (2.9 percent).
It should come as no surprise then that a preliminary DoE study of actual school spending shows spending on health care alone exceeds the foundation budget health insurance allotment (on which current aid payments are based) by something like $850 million statewide.

BostonHerald

12/17/07 Selectmen's Meeting: Speculation and Incompetence

During the correspondence portion of the December 17th, 2007, Selectmen's Meeting, Selectman Patrick Rogers, who is now approving 'warrants' (the town's bills) after Selectman Bond's abrupt refusal to continue to do so, discussed that there was a charge on Town Counsel, Dan Murray's bill for:
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J. Powell
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among other things.
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Selectman Wayne Perkins protested that a PRIVATE CITIZEN would access Town Counsel without Mr. Perkins' gathering the facts and indicated that he was 'making a point.'

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Mr. Perkins: Why don't you gather the facts? You don't know what you think you know.

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Selectman Bond speculated that the charge might have to do with a conversation regarding DISCLOSURE OF PUBLIC DOCUMENTS because Dan Murray had this great radar.

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Chairwoman Marsha Brunelle stated that PRIVATE CITIZENS don't have access to Town Counsel.
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Mrs. Brunelle: You managed to call me to clarify misinformation regarding the Town Accountant's contract. Surely you could call to clarify this issue before you speculate.

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WRONG !!! WRONG !!! WRONG !!!
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If bills are being paid by the Selectmen with such little detail that only speculation or guesswork is acceptable, could this be where part of the Town's problem lies?

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To the Voters: These are your hard-earned tax dollars this Board is spending and they truly don't know what it's for. Isn't it time you paid attention? Isn't it time for a CHANGE?

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To the BOS:

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That you would bandy about my name regarding an issue about which you have NO FACTS defines your incompetence. Next time, do your research before you speculate. You are charged as 'Auditors' in the Town Charter and have failed miserably.

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If you want to know what was discussed, call me at: 508 946-9761.

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Only the facts prevent ignorance and speculation.

Middleboro Town Web Site

Middleboro's Town Web Site, long the butt of jokes because of its pathetic state, seems to stand as a statement of the Town.

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The library has posted their links. As has the School Dept.

Absent a calendar that the IT Director indicated would be added to the site, the Town Planner posts AGENDAS.

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Lack of regularly scheduled agendas seems to indicate the Selectmen don't meet.

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Job openings: Wastewater Division and Conservation, but did you see the postings for Town Manager, Town Accountant, or Selectmen's Secretary? Or the land auctions?

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Has anyone noticed that Middleboro seems to have no Finance Committee? If you find it listed, could you please let me know?

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Do you think if the town had a computer savvy BOS this might change? What could voters do to change this? What has to be done to provide information to townspeople?

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Check out other towns: MMA

Bond ratings and prudent financial management

It might seem that the bond markets reflect directly on the management of municipalities.

Hingham earns AAA bond ratings
Wednesday, October 31, 2007
For the second time, Hingham has achieved the rare distinction of receiving the highest possible bond ratings from three Wall Street ratings agencies: Standard and Poor’s, Moody’s and Fitch Ratings.Ted Alexiades, Hingham’s finance director, said there are other Massachusetts cities and towns that would be in good position to receive across-the-board AAA ratings if they applied to all three ratings firms. But many communities limit their participation to Standard and Poor’s and Moody’s, the two better-known agencies.While applying to all three takes time, “We think our bonds sell better, because people see all three ratings,” Alexiades said.The AAA ratings, Alexiades said, not only help reduce the amount of interest the town pays on its debt, but also demonstrate to citizens that their tax dollars are being used responsibly.Hingham ranks in the top 10 percent of the state’s cities and towns in per-capita income, but Alexiades noted that high bond ratings also reflect prudent financial and managerial practices. The town has received certificates of excellence in financial reporting from the Government Finance Officers Association for 10 straight years.Low staff turnover, particularly among department heads, also has helped to strengthen Hingham’s financial standing, Alexiades said.
By MMA Associate Editor Mitch Evich

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September 11, 2007, Moody's Investors Service Press Release: Moody's Investors Service has assigned A2 ratings to the Town of Middleborough's $7.95 million General Obligation Municipal Purpose Loan of 2007 Bonds and to the town's $3.49 million General Obligation Landfill Bonds (Subject to Federal and Massachusetts Income Taxation). Concurrently, Moody's has affirmed the town's long-term A2 rating and assigned a negative outlook affecting $34.7 million in outstanding long-term debt. The Series A bonds are issued to permanently finance various town capital projects, including the final tranche of bonds issued to finance the town's share of its junior high school renovation. The Series B bonds are issued to permanently finance remediation of a failed landfill. Both series of bonds are secured by the town's general obligation limited tax pledge as debt service has not been excluded from Proposition 2 ½. Affirmation of the A2 long-term rating incorporates Middleborough's moderately-sized and growing tax base with average wealth and income levels, an affordable debt burden, and a tax base experiencing moderate expansion. Assignment of the negative outlook reflects a significantly narrowed financial position with slim reserve levels which are unlikely to be replenished in the short term. JoryPepper

Bells and Whistles, Buzz Words and Fire Trucks

All of us have listened to the BUZZ WORDS of funding --

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FOR THE CHILDREN

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FOR THE SENIORS

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PUBLIC SAFETY

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There is NOT ONE SINGLE MIDDLEBORO RESIDENT who wouldn't support:

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3 fully staffed Fire Stations, with spares and extra firefighters twiddling their thumbs waiting for your call, filled with BRAND NEW EQUIPMENT

10 additonal police officers to respond to each call

6 10 hours days at the Library

a COA with an expanded facility begging for additional participants

a Park Department that expanded and offered free programs to ALL children

a School Department that offered 15 students per class, superlative schools, high school labs to envy

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And much else.

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But the Cadillac taste and the Ford pocketbook collide.

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Middleboro simply cannot afford ALL that we want without making choices.

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The Town appears at its bonding limit.

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Yeah, we can continue to borrow, just as the sub-prime market has proven, but it has its hidden costs.

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Those hidden costs are increased interest rates because Middleboro continues to overextend itself, the Board of Selectmen REFUSE to take unpopular stands and refuse to fund its rainy day SAVINGS ACCOUNT - the Stabilization Fund. (DOR recommends 4-6% in the Stabilization Fund. For Middleboro, that should be ~ $2.56 MILLION -- $3.84 MILLION.)

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Now, consider the LADDER TRUCK.

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Try a google search for USED FIRE TRUCKS

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Check out :

FENTON

FireTec

FireLine

VFD-Fire

Rosenbauer

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Outstanding aerials
Aerials represent a significant investment, and used ones pose a significant potential for liability. Departments looking for a used aerial should be prepared to conduct a detailed investigation before they buy.
The most important concern about used aerials is the strength of the aerial device itself. This is a matter of safety and shouldn't be dismissed with a verbal reassurance from the seller. All used aerials should be examined by an independent, third-party testing service and be certified according to the latest edition of NFPA 1911, Inspection, Maintenance, Testing, and Retirement of In-Service Automotive Fire Apparatus. Buyers should insist on these tests at the time of sale, even if the aerials were certified within the last year. Buyers also should understand that some aerials built before 1991 may not be designed to support the current minimum tip load at full horizontal extension and may not be suitable for some applications. continued

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Townspeople were told by the interim Fire Chief/Police Chief that the life expectancy of a ladder truck was 20 years, along with much additional misinformation about the problems with the ladder trucks and the 4 year old fire station.

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Of the three estimates requested, two appear to have come from companies that build and sell new trucks. Do your own google search for all the companies that REPAIR fire trucks.

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Trucks are NOT CARS.

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The town in which I grew up still has the ladder truck for which the volunteer fire department worked to raise funds --- house to house by donations. It's + 30 years old. Still works. Still does its job of transporting Santa on Christmas Eve and the Easter Bunny on Easter Eve. And it does the nitty-gritty house fires.

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There's a waiting list to get on that volunteer fire department. And those guys are AWESOME! They've won all sorts of competitions and they're truly INVESTED in the community. They deliver Christmas presents on Christmas Eve in Santa suits, and much else that contributes to a small community feel that Middleboro has long since lost.

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Sitting in front of a computer, the world of information in front of us, will we google search to educate ourselves or continue to accept emotionally charged arguments, with little basis in fact ?

Health care costs

FactFinder sometimes makes valid points that are lost in lack of facts or details, as has been noted elsewhere.

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FF had a valid point about Town Hall being open ONLY 4 days a week. A good starting place!

Unions were asked to make concessions in the middle of contracts that Selectman Wayne Perkins had single-handedly negotiated. (Weren't those the contracts that provided 36%, 4%, 4% pay raises to SOME town employees?)

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That's not the way it's done!

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Middleboro currently pays 90% of HEALTH CARE PREMIUMS for Town employees.

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Mansfield pays 60% of the cheapest plan.

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Dighton pays 60%.

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Make a call to comparable towns and see what they offer. Does ANYONE in the entire state offer 90% payment? (There is no DOR Report available because they were asked.)

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Middleboro currently offers a $5 CO-PAY and take a look at the PRESCRIPTION DRUG COVERAGE.

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The health care committee that was recently resurrected is composed of ONLY UNION TOWN EMPLOYEES. Does that serve Middleboro taxpayers?

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Several years ago, Middleboro adopted legislation that provides for lifetime health care coverage for dependents should a town employee die. Doesn't sound significant?

Let's say a 30 year old town employee dies. Middleboro will pay for health care for that employee's dependents.

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That means that the Town of Middleboro could pay for the next 35 years (or more) for the town employee's widow.

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At today's costs, that means ~ $15,000 PER YEAR for someone who never worked for the Town.

Some towns have moved their retirees to Medicare.


Health care is indeed a budget buster that Middleboro refuses to address appropriately. MMA

And wait until you see what's included in the contracts that the interim Town Manager has negotiated.

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Does anyone believe that a Prop. 2 1/2 OVERRIDE is acceptable to voters until issues such as health care are addressed?

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Cambridge links wages to health insurance costs MMA

FactFinderRegistered: 11/21/07Posts: 330
Two years ago the unions were asked to pay a bigger portion of the health insurance premium to save the town about $1,000,000 per year. In perpetuity and the rank and file said no. "Why should we. We don't have to. It's not in our contract." When I heard those comments that could have saved the town real money. I throw up my hands and say 0% 0% 0%.

Let's stop perpetuating ignorance and misinformation #1

The following was posted, apparently by several people who don't seem to want to waste their time understanding issues or researching the facts (emphasis mine):


YesRegistered: 10/13/07Posts: 310
Today at 12:50 PM

The town is not voting to accept a retroactive pay raise.
If a pay raise has been voted on by the BOS or School Committee it is binding. WRONG!!!
The town has to pay for it.

WRONG!!

The Town my [sic] choose not to fund it, in which case there would be the layoffs.



Town Meeting voters approve CONTRACTS.

Town Meeting voters approve UNION CONTRACTS.

At the combined Spring Special Town Meeting and Annual Town Meeting, there were TWO PAY RAISES that Town Counsel FAILED miserably to explain clearly.

The first had to do with the Selectmen's Secretary.

The Selectmen removed their Secretary from the Collective Bargaining group and provided a separate 3 year contract that included a clause (much like the one posted for the Town Accountant) providing for a pay increase equivalent to any received by ANY other town bargaining group.

When the GMEG group received their long overdo wage increases. it was in the SECOND YEAR of the Secretary's THREE YEAR contract.

In other words, Town Meeting voters had already APPROVED her three year contract by their vote, they just didn't realize it.

The second had to do with the salary increases of the Fire Chief -- a contract that the Selectmen deliberately neglected for 3 years and negotiated to enable to Fire Chief to retire.

Town Meeting voters DID NOT APPROVE THAT CONTRACT.

The Selectmen subsequently voted to pay that amount from 'found' money within the Fire Department prior to the end of the fiscal year. The motion, made by Chairman Brunelle was improperly worded and illegal, but one must wonder if anyone noticed.

Where is Middleboro?

Every other Town seems to be addressing municipal energy consumption.

Where is Middleboro?

Is anyone asking?


Easton to take part in energy-saving program
By Susan Tolar, Enterprise correspondent
EASTON— In an effort to save money and cut energy consumption, the town will take part in a statewide pilot program to make water pumping stations more efficient. Enteprise

Trash Fees

To understand the failure of the Board of Selectmen to appropriately address flawed fiscal policy by continually using one time revenues or bandaid solutions, the genesis of Trash Fees is worthy of note (Additional meeting minutes available on the Town's Web Site provide more information.):

SELECTMEN’S MEETING
JUNE 9, 2003

Selectwoman Brunelle noted that Department Heads had presented level funded budgets. $940,000 of the problem goes back to 1990 and has never been addressed.
Mr. Healey noted that layoffs will effect 12 full-time people, 4 vacant positions and 2 part-time positions. He said each week delaying the layoffs creates more of a shortfall.
It was noted that a $200 trash and recycling fee would generated $1.2 million. It still would not give the Town the $1.8 million that it needs. It also would not give the School Department the additional $600,000 that they are requesting. Increasing Local Receipts will temporarily deal with the additional shortfall. Beyond that, permanent sources of revenue have to be established.
Mr. Healey noted that the Building Commissioner and Health Officer would like to come back before the Board to discuss fee increases.
Chairman Perkins said, if he had to make a choice, he would rather see trash and recycling fees implemented. He said a Debt Exclusion only effects people who own property.

http://www.middleborough.com/Selectmen/Minutes/June%20Minutes/June%202003/June%209,%202003.htm



SELECTMEN’S MEETING
JUNE 2, 2003

Selectman Eayrs noted that a fee for trash and recycling could wipe out the rest of the debt.

The idea of maximizing receipts runs the risk of leaving us in a worse position next year. However, at that point trash fees could be implemented.

The world can't wait for George Bush

Public protests and condemnation forced modifications in Bali and in Washington.

Democratic Senate leadership was forced to strip important provisions from the energy bill by Republicans owned by energy interests and an out-of-touch Administration:

Senate Energy Bill Establishes Breakthrough Fuel Economy and Fuels StandardsRenewable Energy Development in Limbo
WASHINGTON (December 13, 2007) – In an 86 to 8 vote, the Senate today passed a landmark energy bill strengthening vehicle fuel economy standards for the first time in 30 years and requiring a significant increase in biofuel production. Lawmakers twice failed to muster the necessary 60 votes to end debate on more comprehensive legislation including renewable energy standards and tax incentives. So to avoid a filibuster and a veto by the White House, Senate leadership moved forward with a trimmed down bill, which is expected to pass early next week in the House before going to President Bush to be signed into law. UCS

DetroitFreePress

I am reminded that 20 years ago, we owned a vehicle that got 40 MPG. 10 years ago, we owned a vehicle that got 60 MPG. The auto industry and lawmakers seem to have sacrificed the consumer and the environment.

The Independent offered excerpts of Al Gore's speech:

Al Gore: The world can't wait for George Bush

Bali climate change summit hears a passionate appeal for action by the Nobel Prize-winner
Published: 14 December 2007
We, the human species, face a planetary emergency. That phrase still sounds shrill to some ears but it is deadly accurate as a description of the situation that we now confront.

They'll look back, and either they will ask "What were you thinking? Didn't you hear the IPCC four times unanimously warning the world to act? Didn't you see the glaciers melting? Didn't you see the deserts growing, and the droughts deepening, and the crops drying up? Didn't you pay attention to what was going on? Didn't you care? What were you thinking?"

Or they'll ask a second question, one that I'd much prefer them to ask. I want them to look back on this time, and ask: "How did you find the moral courage to successfully address a crisis that so many said was impossible? How were you able to start the process that unleashed the moral imagination of humankind to see ourselves as a single, global civilisation?" And when they ask that question, I want you to tell them that you saw it as a privilege to be alive at a moment when a relatively small group of people could control the destiny of all generations to come.

IndependentUK





Reuters





BBC





NYT





Bloomberg

Nations Set Timetable to Revive Climate Treaty

Fuel Economy: The Single Most Effective Step for Cutting Oil Dependence

Big Coal's Dirty Plans for Our Energy Future (with shocking photos) LINK

Just as the American people and the world are beginning to recognize the necessity of shifting to renewable energies, Big Coal, in collusion with an out-of-step administration, is pushing their dirty fossil fuel as the solution to our nation's energy crisis.

Energy Bill Update: Senate Approves Compromise Legislation

EMCORE to Supply Solar Systems in Canada

GE Energy Completes Wind and Solar Deals

Xcel Energy Announces 1,000th MW of Wind in Minnesota

PacWind Delta II Turbines Make Silent Leaps of Progression

Blue Mass Group

Other cities and towns are seeking alternatives, attempting to reduce their municipal consumption. And Middleboro? It might seem that the Selectmen are more interested in adjourning their meetings early than fulfilling their responsibilities.

Middleboro Town Accountant's Contract

AGREEMENT BETWEEN
THE TOWN OF MIDDLEBOROUGH and
STEVEN M. DOONEY

Whereas, the Town of Middleborough, acting by and through the Board of Selectmen, (hereinafter the "Town"), and Steven M. Dooney, (hereinafter, "Dooney"), are desirous of entering into an employment agreement pursuant to the provisions of G.L.Chapter 41, section 108N;

Whereas, the Town-desires to employ Dooney as the Town Accountant pursuant to the
authority granted to the Board of Selectmen;

Whereas, Dooney, is willing to perform the duties of Town Accountant subject to the
terms and conditions of this agreement;

Now therefore, in consideration of the covenants and undertakings contained herein, the Town and the Town Accountant hereby agree that the following terms and conditions shall govern salary and fringe benefits payable under this agreement. Said salary and benefits shall be subject to appropriation by Town Meeting.
ARTICLE 1. TERM

A. This agreement shall be effective October 9, 2007 and shall remain in effect for three (3) years until October 9, 2010, unless sooner terminated as hereinafter provided. Thereafter this agreement may be extended as provided by its terms.

B. Nothing in this agreement or any statute pertaining to Town Accountants, including without limitation M. G. L. c. 41, § 55, shall prevent, limit, or otherwise interfere with the right of the Town to end its obligations under this agreement and terminate the services of Dooney for any reason and without having to meet a just cause standard during a six (6) month probationary period beginning October 9, 2007 and ending March 9, 2008.

C. Nothing in this agreement shall prevent, limit or otherwise interfere with the right of Dooney to resign at any time upon sixty (60) days' written notice to the Board of Selectmen.

ARTICLE 2. DUTIES
A. As set forth in Massachusetts General Laws, Chapter 41, Sections 55, 56, 57, 58,60 and 61, Dooney will, under the general direction of the Board of Selectmen, have full charge and responsibility for the operation and management of the office of Town Accountant.

B. Dooney will perform all of the duties set forth in the attached job description for the Town Accountant, which is incorporated by reference.

C. Dooney will provide all reports, accounts and documents reasonably necessary to complete the obligations of the Town Accountant.

D. Dooney will keep all town offices and departments advised of unexpended balances in the said appropriations.

E. Dooney will, at the close of each year, notify, in a timely manner,
the Board of Selectmen, by written memorandum, of the financial status of the Town as detailed in General Laws, Chapter 41.

F. Dooney will maintain a complete set of books for appropriations, expenditures, revenues, assessments and abatements.

G. Dooney will prepare review and submit all financial reports required by the
Department of Revenue, including Schedule A, Year End Balance Sheet, Audit Report, Quarterly Cash Reconciliation. Furthermore, Dooney will prepare annually, 5 year expenditure and revenue projections.

H. Dooney will perform all other duties not otherwise herein defined as may be
required by the position of Town Accountant by Middleborough Town Charter or as requested by the Board of Selectmen (as well as the Town Manager).

ARTICLE 3. INSURANCE
Dooney shall be eligible to enroll in the Town's health and life insurance programs in accordance with their terms. If he enrolls for health insurance, the Town will contribute up to 75 % (seventy five percent) of the monthly premium. He will be obligated to pay all other costs associated with the health insurance, including without limitation the balance of the monthly premium and any co-pays and deductibles. The Town will provide, at its expense, the standard life insurance that it provides other employees under M.G.L. c. 32B.

ARTICLE 4. COMPENSATION
A. The annual salary of the Town Accountant during the first year of the agreement shall be $75,000.00

B. Any increase in salary for the second and/or third years of the agreement shall be determined by the Board of Selectmen, subject to an annual performance evaluation and Town Meeting appropriation.

C. Dooney shall be entitled to any cost of living allowances that may be granted to any non-bargaining and/or collective bargaining agreement.

ARTICLE 5. HOURS OF WORK

A. Dooney's Town Accountant hours of work will consist of a 4 day work week and any additional hours reasonably necessary for him to faithfully perform the duties of the position, including but not limited to attendance at meetings, off site work via computer or telecommunications etc. as needed or required.

B. It is recognized that the Town Accountant position is exempt from federal and state statutory provisions governing hours of work and overtime.

ARTICLE 6.BENEFITS

All benefits shall accrue on a fiscal year basis.

A. Holidays--The Town Accountant shall be entitled to twelve (12) paid
holidays as follows:
New Year's Day
M.L. King Day
Presidents Day
Patriots Day
Memorial Day
Independence Day
Labor Day
Columbus Day
Veteran's Day
Thanksgiving Day
Day After Thanksgiving
Christmas

B. Vacation-Dooney shall be credited with (25) twenty-five days of vacation. During the completion of the six (6) month probationary period, up to two weeks vacation will be allowed. With advance request and approval of the Board of Selectmen, up to five days may be carried over to the next calendar year. Vacation time will be taken on a schedule that minimizes the disruption to the performance of the duties of Town Accountant.

C. Dooney shall be granted three (3) personal days, with pay, in each year of the agreement.

D. Dooney shall be granted five (5) days bereavement leave for immediate family members. Immediate family shall include spouse, parents, children, sibling, grandparents, grandchildren and in-laws. Vacation and/or personal days may be used if additional time is required and as approved by the Board of Selectmen.

E. Dooney shall be eligible for sick leave pursuant to the following schedule: Upon completion of the probation period, sick leave shall accrue at a rate of one and one-half (1 1/2) days per month, for a maximum of eighteen (18) days per calendar year. Unused sick leave may be accrued from year to year up to a maximum of 225 days. No compensation will be provided for unused sick leave.

ARTICLE 7. AUTOMOBILE EXPENSE
In accordance with the Town's Vehicle Use Policy, the Town shall reimburse Dooney at the prevailing per mile Town Rate.

ARTICLE 8. PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
Dooney will be allowed to attend any job-related conferences, meetings and seminars each year without a loss of vacation or other leave, and will be reimbursed by the Town for all reasonable expenses (including travel expenses) incurred while attending or traveling to the aforementioned, with the prior approval of the Board of Selectmen. Reimbursement will exclude all non-business related expenses.

ARTICLE 9. DUES AND SUBSCRIPTIONS
With the prior approval of the Board of Selectmen, the Town agrees to pay for Dooney's job-related professional dues and subscriptions for his continued participation in state and local associations and organizations necessary and desirable for his professional growth and advancement and for the good of the Town.

ARTICLE 10. DEATH DURING TERM OF EMPLOYMENT
If Dooney dies during the term of his employment, the Town shall pay to his estate, at such time as Town Meeting shall vote to appropriate, all the compensation which would otherwise be payable to him up to the date of death, including, but not limited to holidays, personal days, and unused vacation.

ARTICLE 11. SUSPENSION, DISCHARGE, ENDING TOWN'S OBLIGATIONS
In addition to its rights under the probationary period provisions set forth above, the Town may suspend without payor terminate Dooney' s employment, as well as end any of its obligations under this Agreement prior to March 1, 2010 for just cause, including without limitation the failure of Dooney to satisfactorily meet his obligations under this agreement.

A. Dooney shall be entitled to a hearing before the Board of Selectmen or its designee and the right to be represented by counsel, except that this shall only apply to suspensions without pay and/or a discharge.

B. Dooney may appeal any decision to suspend him without payor discharge him or to end the Town's obligations under the agreement to an arbitrator mutually selected by the Town and Dooney. Any appeal must be filed in writing thirty (30) days of Dooney's receipt of the Town's decision and it shall specify the grounds for the appeal. Failure to do so will result in a waiver of any appeal.

C. If Dooney and the Town are unable to agree, a labor/employment arbitrator will be selected and the issues decided under the procedures and rules of the American Arbitration Association pertaining to labor and employment disputes.

D. Dooney and the Town shall divide equally the costs of the arbitration, including the arbitrator's fees. Each side shall pay its own legal expenses.

ARTICLE 12. CONTRACT RENEWAL/TERMINATION

A. The term of this agreement shall be from October 9, 2007 throug October 9, 2010.

B. There will be an automatic extension of the agreement for a single, one year term, from October 9, 2010 through October 9, 2011, under the following conditions:

1. Between March 31, 2010 and April 30, 2010, Dooney notifies the Town in
writing that the March 31, 2010 automatic extension date for the agreement is approaching.

2. The Board fails to notify Dooney in writing by March 31, 2010 of its intention not to automatically extend the agreement at the end of its term. The notice may include a statement of the Board's willingness to attempt to negotiate a successor agreement without negating the notice of no automatic extension. Likewise, any subsequent negotiations shall not negate the notice of no automatic extension.

C. In the event that Dooney intends to resign voluntarily at any time following commencement of this original Agreement, he shall give the Town sixty (60) days' written notice in advance, unless the parties otherwise agree in writing. In such circumstances, Dooney shall only be
entitled to receive compensation due him up to the effective date of his resignation, including unused vacation leave.

ARTICLE 13~ GENERAL PROVISIONS
A. This Agreement is a Massachusetts contract and shall be governed by the
laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. If any of the provisions of this Agreement shall be determined illegal by a court of competent jurisdiction, such provision shall be considered null and void and shall not be binding on the parties hereto. In such event, the remaining provisions of this Agreement shall remain in full force and effect.
B. This Agreement supersedes any and all prior written or oral agreements and constitutes the entire agreement between the parties. No extension or modifications or same shall be effective unless by an instrument in writing duly executed by the parties.

ARTICLE 14. NON-WAIVER
No addition to, alteration, modification or waiver of any of the terms or provisions of this Agreement shall be valid, binding, or of any force and effect unless it is made in writing and executed by the parties hereto. The failure by either party in one or more instances to observe or enforce any provisions of this Agreement shall not be construed to be a waiver of said provisions.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereunto set their hands and seal by their duly authorized representatives this 17th day of September 2007.

(emphasis mine, format slightly changed because of blog software)

Town Accountant

Recently, Middleboro Selectmen hired a Town Accountant whose hiring and contract raises many significant issues, including a 4 day work week for $75,000 per year.

The following job listings are currently posted on MMA:

Accountant, Town of East Longmeadow
The town of East Longmeadow is seeking qualified applicants for the full-time position of Town Accountant. Position works under the general supervision and administrative direction of the board of selectmen. Responsibilities include financial monitoring of the budget, maintaining comprehensive financial records, generating required periodic reports, working closely with the appropriations committee and all town departments in budget preparation, and monitoring and supervision of department staff. Qualified candidates will have a bachelor’s degree in accounting or related field, MBA preferred; minimum of five years’ experience in an equivalent accounting position; managerial/supervisory experience; and detailed knowledge of municipal finance software, MUNIS preferred. Must be certified in governmental accounting or able to obtain certification within the first two years of employment to keep the position. Salary range: $60,000.00-$68,000.00, with benefits. MMA

East Longmeadow's Web Site

(E. Longmeadow's stats: 2006 Est. population: 14,937; FY 07 Operating Budget: ~ $45 million)

Town Accountant, Town of Marshfield
The town of Marshfield (budget $79 million) is seeking qualified applicants for the position of Town Accountant. The Town Accountant is a key member of the town’s financial team that also includes the town administrator and treasurer collector. Specific responsibilities include maintenance of accounting records in accordance with the UMAS system, GASB and DOR regulations; preparation of Schedule A, the tax recap sheet and other required reports; preparation and approval of payroll and vendor warrants and performance of other required duties of the Town Accountant. Duties include, but are not limited to, accounting for revenues and expenditures, financial analysis and reporting, and assistance with budget preparation. The applicant should have strong communication skills and be willing and able to work in a team environment. A thorough knowledge of UMAS, GASB and Massachusetts General Laws relating to municipal finance and experience with Excel and municipal accounting software ( i.e Softright) is essential. Requirements also include a bachelor’s degree in accounting or related field plus a minimum of five years’ experience in Massachusetts municipal accounting. Maximum salary for qualified selected candidate is $80,000. Salary dependent upon qualifications. MMA

Marshfield's Web Site

(Marshfield stats: estimated 2006 population: 24,836)

Town Accountant

Town of Northborough

The town administrator’s office is currently accepting applications for the position of Town Accountant. Responsible for the oversight of the accounting office; development of reports illustrating the town’s financial condition; the maintenance of financial records; and the control of town fund expenditures. Position requires a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in accounting and five to seven years of job-related experience; or any equivalent combination of education and experience. Master’s degree in accounting is preferred and certification with the Massachusetts Municipal Auditor and Accounting Association is highly desirable. Prior municipal experience and supervisory experience is desirable. Salary range: $60,761-$78,989, depending upon qualifications, plus excellent benefits. MMA

Northbororugh's Web Site

(Northborough's stats: estimated 2006 population: 14,681; FY 07 operating budget: ~ $45 million)

Equipment Planning Committee

In a previous entry, I raised the issue of insurance costs and town owned vehicles.

Town Owned Vehicles

The cost isn't cheap and the oversight is non-existent.

It would seem reasonable, since the Town has ~ 212 items insured, that periodic audits are accomplished and departments are aware of the vehicles for which they should be responsible.

Since the Board of Selectmen are charged as AUDITORS in the Town Charter, it is logical the expect them to be progressive in their consideration of the matter.

Voters, who are now paying attention, have raised important issues that a Board that never listened fails to consider.

Does it make sense to conduct periodic mileage reviews and record the use of each department and vehicle? Were that accomplished, could the Town better anticipate vehicle purchases? Should we be examining maintenance costs? Is there a current town-wide maintenance policy or does it get accomplished in a disorganized fashion? Are town owned vehicles being properly maintained?

Does the Assessors' Office usage justify a gas-guzzling SUV?

And what of the fire trucks? Does it make sense to replace the ladder truck when the repairs seem cost-effective?

Are there fleet managers living within the Town who could offer assistance?

Since each vehicle costs ~ $5,000 to insured, voters have questioned whether the 12 spare cruisers parked around the police station make sense.

And voters seem to have many more questions the current Board of Selectmen aren't hearing or addressing.

Would it make sense to have an Equipment Planning Committee?

#2 Fire Station and Fire Department Nov. 26 BOS Meeting

At the November 26, 2007, Selectmen's Meeting, the 'interim' Fire Chief/Police Chief, just returned from vacation, presented a progress report and information prepared by Captain Wiksten.

Again, lengthy information was presented to the Board, at the public meeting, not allowing consideration or research, prohibiting informed questions from the media or audience.

The proposed cost of replacing the ladder truck was presented now as being $900,000, with sketchy details.

What was originally presented as cracks in the chassis of the ladder truck has now been identified as cracks in the welds of the frame, not an unusual situation.

Since none of the publicly reported problems with the ladder truck are unusual and all are repairable, maybe it might be helpful for the Board to consider an Equipment Planning Committee that parallels the Capital Planning Committee. The former Fire Chief indicated that refurbishing was required on 2 other fire trucks but subsequently reduced his budget. Those 2 repairs also need to be considered before the Town is asked to bond money for a new ladder truck.

The transparent willingness to assess blame without accompanying research was clearly unprofessional. When a number of petty items appeared on the building list, including a burned out light fixture, surely voters are entitled to expect better conduct. The original 'punch list' provided by the Building Committee is undoubtedly available to document some of the original building problems.

And the BOS had not yet requested a determination from Town Counsel about the legality of using the unexpended funds from the original building construction for REPAIRS on a 4 year old building.

What was originally reported as 'leaking windows,' has now been correctly identified as the large overhead doors failing to operate properly. From the description, it might require minor adjustments.

It does seem that ALL of the doors were replaced last spring. Has anyone thought to contact the Architect or the Installer? It is my understanding that no contact was initiated prior to the first newspaper articles in October.

The newly hired employees within the Fire Department were briefly discussed. It is unclear at this time how many new employees there are or even whether the Board of Selectmen were aware. It seems that other departments come before the BOS to fill vacant positions because there's a HIRING FREEZE that no one has quite figured out. Why is the Fire Department different? Since the BOS voted to eliminate Call Fire Department permits and in essence, eliminated the Call Fire Department, it would seem crucial to public safety to be informed.

It would seem that ALL of the above information should be available as public documents within the Selectmen's Meeting Minutes for your review. Why don't they want you to know?

Middleboro Finance Committee and Nov. 26th BOS Meeting

So much transpired at the Nov. 26, 2007 Middleboro Selectmen's Meeting, that I awaited some impressive headlines to inform the public of the BOS business.

Failing that, let me proceed slowly.

Below, you will find, for your consideration, some information about the responsibilities of the FINANCE COMMITTEE and several randomly selected towns. (Should you choose, a google search of Massachusetts' Finance Committees produces much additional information.)

Middleborough Town Charter:

FINANCE COMMITTEE

SECTION FIVE: The committee shall consider and advise as to all matters relating to proposed appropriation and the matter of raising the amounts appropriated, and shall report in writing at each town meeting on all articles in the warrant relating to the appropriations or borrowing of money or the indebtedness of the town, with the exception of its action on the annual budget. The committee may make recommendations in writing at any time to the town, or to the Board of Selectmen, relating to the financial affairs of the town. It shall submit to the town at the Annual Town Meeting a report showing appropriations recommended for each fund or department, the estimated income from all sources, exclusive of taxes on property and poll taxes, the amount required to meet charges for interest and maturing indebtedness, and the estimated amount to be levied and raised by taxation to meet all expenses and liabilities of the town. Said report shall be filed with the Town Clerk on or before fifteen days prior to the fourth Monday of April, however, if not timely filed there will be no adverse affect to any action taken at town meeting. For the purpose of enabling the committee to perform its duties all Boards, Committees and Officers of town shall, on or before the twentieth day of January of each year, submit to the committee in writing, a detailed estimate of the appropriations required for the efficient and proper conduct of the departments under their charge during the ensuing fiscal year, and of all items of income to be received by such departments during said year and shall at any time, furnish any other information relative thereto in their possession which may be requested in writing by the committee. The Committee is hereby authorized to incur such expenses, as it may deem necessary, including the cost of the employment of experts and other assistants and the cost of printing its reports; provided, that such expenses shall not exceed, in the aggregate, the sum of two hundred and fifty dollars in any one year, unless a larger amount shall be appropriated for the purpose by the committee. Nothing herein shall be construed as limiting the power of the town to impose additional duties on the committee, in accordance with Section Sixteen of Chapter Thirty-nine of the General Laws.

PART I. ADMINISTRATION OF THE GOVERNMENT TITLE VII. CITIES, TOWNS AND DISTRICTS

CHAPTER 39. MUNICIPAL GOVERNMENT TOWN MEETINGS Chapter 39: Section 16. Appropriation, advisory or finance committees; appointment; tenure; powers and duties Section 16. Every town whose valuation for the purpose of apportioning the state tax exceeds one million dollars shall, and any other town may, by by-law provide for the election or the appointment and duties of appropriation, advisory or finance committees, who shall consider any or all municipal questions for the purpose of making reports or recommendations to the town; and such by-laws may provide that committees so appointed or elected may continue in office for terms not exceeding three years from the date of appointment or election. In every town having a committee appointed under authority of this section, such committee, or the selectmen if authorized by a by-law of the town, and, in any town not having such a committee, the selectmen, shall submit a budget at the annual town meeting.

Association of Town Finance Committees

Arlington Finance Committee

Dalton Finance Committee

Halifax Finance Committee

.... It considers any and all municipal questions for the purpose of making reports or recommendations .....

Kingston Finance Committee

Duties and Responsibilities:

The Finance Committee considers and reports on all requests for appropriations made by the different departments of the town, considers all warrant articles to be presented at a town meeting and makes recommendations for action at the town meetings as they deem in the best interests of the town.

Franklin Finance Committee

6-2-3 The Finance Committee shall carry out its duties in accordance with the provisions of general law, this Charter and bylaw, and it shall have regular and free access and inspection rights to all books and accounts of any Town department or office. The Committee shall carefully examine all budget and appropriations proposals and shall issue its recommendations thereon prior to consideration, debate and vote by the Town Council.

Section 3 Submission of budget and budget message

6-3-1 Within the period provided by general law, the Town Administrator shall submit to the Town Council and file copies with the Finance Committee a proposed budget for the ensuing fiscal year with an accompanying budget message and support documents.

Section 4 Budget message

6-4-1 The budget message shall explain the budget for all Town agencies in 50th fiscal and programmatic terms. It shall: (a) outline proposed financial policies of the Town for the ensuing fiscal year; (b) describe important features of the budget; (c) indicate any major variations from the current year in financial policies, expenditures and revenues, together with the reasons of such variations; (d) summarize the Town's debt position; and (e) include such other materials as the Town Administrator may deem desirable or the Finance Committee may require.

Section 5 Budget Proposal

6-5-1 The proposed budget shall provide a complete financial plan for all Town funds and activities, including the proposed School Committee budget of the ensuing year. Except for the school budget or may be required by general law, it shall be in such form as the Town Administrator deems desirable or the Finance Committee may require.

6-5-2 In submitting the proposed budget, the Town Administrator shall utilize modern fiscal principals so as to afford maximum information and financial control. The budget shall detail all estimated revenue from the property tax levy and other sources and all proposed expenditures, including debt service to: the previous, current and ensuing years, and shall indicate separately: (a) proposed expenditures for 50th current operations and capital projects during the ensuring year, detailed by agency, purpose and position, together with proposed financing methods; and (b) estimated surplus revenue and free cash available at the close of the fiscal year, including estimated balances in special accounts. Section 6 Action on the proposed budget

6-6-1 The Town Council shall conduct at least two (2) public hearings on the proposed budget, and it shall publish, in one (1) or more newspapers of general circulation in the Town, a general summary of the budget and a notice stating: (a) the times and places where copies of the budget shall be available for inspection, and (b) the dates, times and places, not less than fourteen (14) days after such publication, when the public hearings on the budget proposal shall be conducted. The Finance Committee shall issue printed recommendations and make copies available at the time of the public hearings. 6-6-2 The Town Council shall adopt the budget, with or without amendments, prior to the close of the current fiscal year. Adoption of the budget shall constitute appropriation of the amounts specified therein. CHARTER

Since the Middleboro BOS are fond of repeating the fiscal condition of ALL other cities and towns, I found this figure significant:

Stabilization Fund $4,793,011.78

Rockport Finance Committee

The Finance Committee is the Town's official fiscal watchdog. The committee has oversight responsibility for all financial matters, including revenue and trust funds as well as expenditures.

Secretary of State: Citizen's Guide:

What does the finance committee do?

The finance committee prepares the budget in the months before the annual Town Meeting starts. It also prepares financial articles (which are agenda items). Its recommendations are advisory. In some towns, the committee is known as the warrant committee or the advisory committee. Depending on a town’s by-laws, members of the finance committee are appointed by the selectmen or moderator, or elected by voters or the Town Meeting. In many towns, the finance committee'sreport is distributed to all residences.

MMA offers a list of ALL

City and Town Web Sites

What the headlines should have said ..... (Part 2)

At the request of the BOS, the 'interim' Town Manager prepared a 'policy' and timeline regarding the budget process.

It is important to understand that the BOS appoints the Town Manager and in this case, the BOS utilizes the position to reduce their workload and absolve themselves of responsibility. In essence, the Town Manager acts as the Board's lackey and does their bidding, at a cost of $500 per day.

Since this 'interim' Town Manager is part-time and retired from another Town, it is unreasonable to expect much future planning or long-term commitment. Besides, this Board lacks the insight and fails to see the need for much beyond their narrow scope.

It would seem with all the EXPERIENCE proclaimed on the BOS, they would have arrived at their own timeline and policy, but ......

When the 'interim' Town Manager presented his policy draft of BUDGET DEVELOPMENT SCHEDULE, noteworthy were the Chairwoman's apologies that 'I know I promised to get you out of here by 8:30,' and Selectman Bond's silence as the Town Charter was conspicuously violated.

Apparently, Charter violations are of no concern to Mr. Bond when they don't pertain to a position he is seeking.

And Selectman Spataro was too preoccupied smiling and giggling, clearly unprepared for the meeting. Isn't this the Selectman who said the Board was the MAJOR LEAGUES? Is anyone watching his behavior?

The contents of the POLICY were never fully enumerated during the meeting, but it was clear that the intent was to exclude the Finance Committee from the process. (The policy was undoubtedly included in the press packages, but the media also felt no need to comment.)

Since it appears that no one has yet shown the new Secretary to the Board of Selectmen how to post Meeting Agendas or Meeting Minutes, we will never see this POLICY unless we submit a Public Records Request. Is that how Town Government should work?

The 'interim' Town Manager said at one point that the statement had been distributed to all Department Heads and subsequently indicated that it had not been, pending Board approval.

Selectman Wayne Perkins emphatically endorsed adoption of the policy and included his statement that 50% of the recommendations contained in the DOR (Department of Revenue) Report had been adopted. (I will address the DOR Report in a subsequent entry, but much work needs to be done.)

Mr. Dunphy rose to ask a question and remained at the podium for quite some time.

When the Chairwoman finally acknowledged his presence, she made sure that she informed him that 'THIS IS NOT A PUBLIC HEARING.'

So, here again we repeat the limitations of the public's right to ask questions.

Mr. Dunphy questioned the Finance Committee's responsibilities governed by the Town Charter.

Chairwoman Brunelle dismissed the question by saying that there were NO PENALTIES INVOLVED.

In other words, violate the Town Charter and the expectations of voters that the Finance Committee Members that we voted for would do their job, and it is of no consequence to the BOS?

I voted for the Finance Committee Members because the ELECTED POSITION is of importance. I want those ELECTED OFFICIALS to be able to work conscientiously to fulfill their responsibilities for the benefit of the Town.

Are my rights not being taken away when the Board of Selectmen deliberately withhold information and prevent the FinCom from doing their jobs?

Didn't you elect the Finance Committee?

Are you wondering why your taxes are so high and services are being cut?

Do you dislike the way the Town is being run?

Is it time for you to inform yourself and maybe get involved?