Beverly council to cover strike-related school costs with $628,693 free-cash transfer

The Beverly City Council voted to transfer $628,693 from the citys certified free cash balance into the Beverly Public Schools operating budget to cover costs associated with the teachers strike last fall.

City Finance Director Bridal Ailes told the council the funds will allow the school department to absorb strike-related expenses without drawing on other operating accounts. "The order you have before you this evening is a request to transfer 628,693 from the city's reserve for free cash to the school operating budget to cover costs associated with, the strike that occurred last fall," Ailes said.

Why it matters: Councilors and staff said paying the bills now is preferable to leaving liabilities on the books at fiscal year-end, which would reduce next years certified free cash and either raise the tax rate or force service reductions. Budget analyst Jerry Perry recommended the transfer,…