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Westwood committee hears FY27 budget briefing; transportation and athletics costs flagged
Summary
Committee received a FY27 budget update that proposed a 4% increase to extended‑day tuition, noted a projected 4.1% rise in the yellow‑bus transport contract, and flagged potentially higher ice‑hockey rental costs under new Canton Ice House ownership; FY27 base capital shows a $140,000 increase focused on roofing, technology and building improvements (including security).
The Westwood School Committee received a directional update on the FY27 budget on Dec. 10, focusing on proposed fee changes, transportation and athletics cost pressures and base capital priorities.
Superintendent (name not specified) said the administration is recommending a 4% increase for extended‑day tuition to modestly offset operating costs and is considering a 3–4% annual escalator for other fees. She noted the yellow‑bus transportation contract shows a projected 4.1% cost increase for next year and that new ownership at Canton Ice House and an expiring contract will likely drive higher ice hockey rental costs. The district will go out to bid for ice time under procurement rules (referenced as 30B).
On capital, the superintendent said the FY27 base capital allocation shows a $140,000 increase versus the prior year; the funds are earmarked primarily for roofing, technology device renewal (replacement of Chromebooks and equipment purchased during the COVID era) and flexible building improvements with security-related work included. The committee reiterated that townwide capital priorities and the single town “pot” for capital will shape final allocations.
Members requested additional numeric benchmarking for athletics fees and transportation and emphasized phased, modest fee increases to ease family budgeting. The administration said it will return with more detailed figures at the Jan. 15 budget presentation.
