Southwick-Tolland-Granville Transitional Regional School Committee members Jean McGivney-Burelle, Theodore Locke and George LeBlanc review materials during a budget discussion Tuesday night. (Photo by Hope E. Tremblay)
Southwick school
budget discussed
By HOPE E. TREMBLAY
Staff writer
SOUTHWICK – A third draft of the Southwick-Tolland-Granville Regional School District budget was presented this week to the tune of $21,277,050.
The version presented by School Business Manager Stephen Presnal reflects more than $400,000 in cuts from the first draft.
“Between the first and second drafts we were able to shave off $350,000, and we were able to bring down expenditures another $2,100 in draft three,” said Presnal.
Superintendent Dr. John Barry said this is the first budget that includes Granville and because it is now a three-town district, the budget reflects a 10 percent increase over last year. However, he said Granville brings $2.5 million to the budget between its assessment and Chapter 70 funds.
Barry said most staff reductions in the budget are through attrition and two full-time employees were added. Barry added that there would be just one food service director for the four schools in the district.
The budget includes a potential $600,000 in capital borrowing, which would be reduced by $250,000 if a revised school renovation project goes forward and is approved by voters.
“How would we cut that?” asked committee member Jean McGivney-Burelle.
“That would be up to the committee,” said Barry.
The budget also includes money for the transition of the district to include Granville, which is being funded with a $44,000 state grant.
Barry said the budget is still a “work in progress” and more revisions are forthcoming.
Hope E. Tremblay can be reached at [email protected]
