The Special City Council meeting held on May 9, 2025, in New London, Rochester, focused primarily on the pressing issues surrounding the school budget and the impact on local education. The meeting featured several passionate speakers, including educators and community members, who expressed their concerns regarding the current state of funding for New London Public Schools.

The session began with Sarah Turner, a local resident, who urged councilors to reconsider the budget timeline. She emphasized the need for transparency in the budget process, noting that the current financial strategies have left many constituents feeling uneasy about the allocation of funds. Turner highlighted the adverse effects on students and teachers, advocating for more time to develop solutions before finalizing the budget.

Following Turner, Maureen Katie Lazarus, a special education teacher, expressed gratitude for the city’s advocacy efforts but stressed the importance of addressing the funding gap. She pointed out the dedication of the staff and the potential consequences of inadequate funding on the students they serve. Lazarus called for unity among the council and the board of education to ensure that the needs of the students are prioritized.

Gabriel Beluccio, a music teacher, criticized the perceived prioritization of police funding over educational resources. He questioned the lack of accountability regarding budget transparency and urged the council to take action to support teachers and students rather than allowing them to suffer due to financial mismanagement.

Eric Plum, a long-time educator and vice president of the teachers' union, shared his personal struggles with health issues that have affected his ability to work. He implored the council to advocate for fair compensation for teachers, emphasizing the importance of retaining quality educators in the community.

The meeting also included comments from Jeffrey Butler, who expressed disappointment in the council's handling of educational funding and called for a more responsible approach to budgeting for schools.

As the meeting progressed, tensions rose, prompting a brief recess for councilors to discuss the issues raised. The urgency of the situation was palpable, with many speakers imploring the council to prioritize the future of the children in their community.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the critical need for transparency and adequate funding in the New London Public Schools budget. The voices of educators and community members highlighted the potential long-term consequences of current financial decisions, urging the council to take immediate action to support the educational needs of their students. The council's next steps remain to be seen as they navigate the complexities of the budget process.