Finance director reports Eversource billing discrepancy, plans for non‑lapsing excess cost funds; transportation contract issues remain under review

Dan, the assistant superintendent for finance, told the board that the March budget is generally on track but highlighted three issues: a disputed Eversource billing that the district is investigating, an expected excess‑cost state payment of roughly $300,000 that staff plan to place in a non‑lapsing account under board policy 3170, and continuing transportation contract performance concerns.

Dan said Eversource lists an outstanding balance across three schools and the district has asked the utility for billing backup for several months. The finance office will earmark funds if a balance is confirmed but expects the operating budget can absorb any necessary payment without a major impact.

On excess‑cost revenue, Dan said the district expects to receive a payment that it may carry forward in a non‑lapsing account to smooth volatility and fund special projects or special services. He described this as a new option the district intends to implement with guidance from legal counsel and peer districts.

Board members asked about transportation: Dan said buses that do not run are not billed to the district and that invoice adjustments will reflect consolidations or missed runs. Penalties for contract breaches (for example, repeated late runs beyond contract thresholds) remain part of the contract, and the district receives monthly invoices that would reflect any adjustments. Trustees agreed to schedule a June check‑in focused on transportation performance and metrics.