Library director warns payroll projections could eliminate usual salary turnback

Library Director Ryan told the Southboro Library Board of Trustees on March 9 that recent timing in payroll reporting made an expense report appear over budget by a few days, but that overall projections show the library is "using all of the budgeted money for salaries" and that the modest "turnback" the library sometimes returns to the town is unlikely this year.

Ryan said he ran three payroll scenarios with the town accountant and in two scenarios the library would turn back a small amount; in one scenario the library would run slightly over depending on absenteeism and staffing calls. "One of the things I talked to Carla about is that that's unlikely to happen this year," Ryan said, adding that he will watch expenses closely and offered to meet with trustees to review payroll detail if requested.

Trustees discussed short-term staffing absences that can affect pay-period calculations; Ryan noted a part-time staffer would be out for sinus surgery and that snow days and sick leave had contributed to some timing anomalies. Trustee Brian reported no other major concerns after a deep dive into non-salary line items.

Separately, Ryan reported the revised FY27 library budget was transmitted into the town warrant for April Town Meeting and that select board and advisory committee review was underway. The board agreed to keep the FY27 budget as a standing agenda item until Town Meeting action.

Next steps: Director Ryan will continue payroll monitoring, offer trustees an opportunity to review salary projections with the town accountant, and report back before the next meeting and before Town Meeting.