Medford Public Schools approves $4.57M budget for maintenance and security improvements

The Medford Public Schools budget hearing held on March 24, 2025, highlighted critical discussions surrounding the fiscal planning for the upcoming school year. A primary focus was the need for enhanced security measures and maintenance funding, reflecting the district's commitment to student safety and facility upkeep.

One significant revelation during the meeting was a miscount of security monitors from the previous fiscal year, which necessitated the addition of a night shift security monitor at the high school. This adjustment aims to ensure adequate coverage during evening hours, particularly for areas like the pool side of the building. The budget proposal includes funding for city year contracts for two schools, which were implemented after the budget was finalized, indicating a proactive approach to addressing security needs.

The discussion also emphasized the importance of maintenance within the district's facilities. A comprehensive inventory of maintenance requirements was conducted, leading to a clearer understanding of the financial needs for upkeep. The budget allocates approximately $120,000 for routine maintenance and an additional $330,000 for extraordinary maintenance projects. This structured approach aims to prevent the backlog of maintenance issues that have historically plagued the district, ensuring that essential repairs and improvements, such as air conditioning for technology rooms and fire alarm panel replacements, are addressed in a timely manner.

Questions raised by committee members underscored the importance of distinguishing between recurring and one-time expenses in the budget. The chair expressed a desire for a stable maintenance budget that could be sustained in future fiscal years, emphasizing the need for careful planning to avoid emergency situations that arise from neglected maintenance.

Overall, the budget hearing underscored the Medford Public Schools' commitment to enhancing safety and maintaining facilities, with a focus on long-term planning and stability. As the district moves forward, the proposed budget aims to address immediate needs while laying the groundwork for future fiscal responsibility and infrastructure improvements.