Whitman Select Board Discusses Key Budget Strategies Amidst Financial Challenges
WHITMAN - August 19 - The Whitman Select Board held a meeting where they discussed critical budget strategies to address the town’s financial challenges, including a proposal to restructure the Plymouth County retirement liability, which could extend the duration of payments, and interest paid, to reduce the current assessment. The board also explored the implications of indirect costs related to trash services and enhancements to ambulance billing efficiency.
Detailed Overview
The Whitman Select Board convened to discuss pressing budgetary concerns and explore potential strategies to alleviate financial pressures on the town. The primary focus was on the restructuring of the Plymouth County retirement liability. Board member Shawn Kain suggested extending the repayment period from five to ten years, which could significantly lower annual assessments from approximately $3.8 million to around $2.5 million, resulting in a potential savings of $1.3 million annually. However, this strategy would incur higher interest costs over time and is not recommended by financial consultants.
In addition to the retirement liability, the board discussed the need to account for indirect costs associated with the voluntary trash and recycling service. Currently, these costs are not properly reflected in the trash assessment, which has led to costs covered by other areas. By implementing a charge for these indirect costs, the town could generate an additional $100,000 in annual revenue, although it would likely result in a $25 increase in trash rates for residents.
Another significant topic was the efficiency of ambulance billing. The board emphasized the importance of collecting outstanding ambulance bills and considered the engagement of a third-party collection service to enhance revenue collection. Fire Chief Tim Clancy reported positive developments in this area, including a recent influx of $71,764 from the Ambulance Certified Public Expenditure Program, which is expected to bolster the town's finances.
John Galvin, a resident, raised concerns about the use of one-time funds from the overlay account for public safety, suggesting that while it may provide immediate relief, it could exacerbate budget issues in the following years. He advocated for careful consideration of the town's long-term financial health and the potential need for future overrides.
Major Topics of Discussion
Topic: Restructuring Plymouth County retirement liability. Discussion Summary: Proposed extension from five to ten years could save approximately $1.3 million annually, though it would incur higher interest costs. Watch this moment
Topic: Indirect costs of trash services. Discussion Summary: Accounting for these costs could generate an additional $100,000 in revenue but may lead to increased rates for residents. Watch this moment
Topic: Efficiency in ambulance billing. Discussion Summary: Discussion on engaging a third-party collection service to enhance revenue collection efforts. Watch this moment
Topic: No immediate decision on a Dangerous Dog Hearing. Discussion Summary: Four incidents occurred over a few years, but actions taken to keep the dog from getting loose. Watch this moment
Topic: Open Space Survey and Park Ave Property. Discussion Summary: A preview of community feedback on Open Space, and discussion about petitioning for the removal of a deed restriction. Watch this moment
Public Comment
John Galvin expressed concerns regarding the potential use of one-time funds from the overlay account, emphasizing the need for sustainable financial strategies moving forward.
Action Items & Next Steps
The board will continue to explore the proposed budget strategies and assess their viability in the coming meetings. Further discussions will focus on the implications of restructuring the retirement liability and the implementation of indirect costs for trash services.
*editor’s note: I’m experimenting with meeting formats and embedded links
Disclosure: South Shore News founder Justin Evans is a current member of the Whitman Select Board.
Source Video: Watch the full meeting