The Town of Stratford's Ordinance Committee held its first budget workshop on March 20, 2024, as part of a series of meetings aimed at discussing the town's budget for the upcoming fiscal year. The committee outlined a schedule for future workshops, which will take place on March 21, March 26, April 2, and April 9, providing ample opportunities for public participation.

The meeting commenced with an introduction by the committee chair, who emphasized the importance of community involvement, noting the significant turnout at the previous town council meeting. The chair also mentioned plans for additional public hearings in April, aimed at further engaging residents in the budget process.

Following the introduction, Heather Borges, the interim acting superintendent of schools, was invited to present her insights regarding the budget. After her speech, the committee opened the floor for questions, allowing each council member to ask three questions in a structured manner, starting with Councilman O'Connor.

The meeting was time-sensitive, with a requirement to conclude by 7 PM to accommodate a subsequent meeting that included a public hearing. This structured approach aimed to ensure that all agenda items were addressed efficiently while allowing for meaningful dialogue among council members and the public.

Overall, the workshop set the stage for ongoing discussions about the town's budget, highlighting the committee's commitment to transparency and community engagement in the budgeting process. Further workshops and public hearings are anticipated to continue this dialogue in the coming weeks.