Stratford committee recommends 2025 budget to full board after debate on utilities, technology and grant risks

The Stratford School District Finance Committee voted unanimously on Feb. 10 to send the proposed fiscal 2025 operating budget to the full Board of Education with a favorable recommendation, following discussion about rising utility costs, technology needs and the district’s reliance on grant funding.

The committee vote followed presentations from district staff and extended discussion by board members. "Overall, there is an increase of 4.79% in the facilities budget," District administrator Miss Mangini told the committee as she opened the facilities review. The committee also heard that electricity costs show a 16.60% increase in the utilities line.

Why it matters: The committee’s recommendation advances a budget that district leaders described as a "foundational" plan meant to maintain current programs and staffing while limiting new recurring expenditures. Board members raised questions about whether flat or level funding leaves the district unable to restore services cut in prior years and how the district would respond if federal grants are reduced.

Facilities and utilities: District staff said the facilities budget rise is driven in part by multi‑year contract steps and specific service-contract increases. In response to a board question about cleaning contracts, the committee heard the contract contains stepped increases in year two and three. Facilities director Rich Ruggero was present to answer operational questions.

On utilities,…