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Resident asks what happens if budget fails; board plans outreach and additional cuts
Summary
During public comment, a longtime district teacher asked what will happen if the budget does not pass; the board said it has proposed roughly $400,000 in cuts for the next referendum, will hold an information session and may propose further cuts if necessary.
A resident and former teacher pressed the Ansonia Board of Education on May 14 to explain contingency plans if the school budget fails in a referendum, and board leaders said they will hold a public meeting to clarify funding sources and proposed cuts.
Norine McMahon, 22 Prindle Ave., asked the board, "I want to know what is going to happen if the budget does not pass," saying the district should show voters "what we need." President Rich Bshara responded that the board has submitted cuts for the next referendum amounting to about $400,000 less than the original proposal and that, if that measure does not pass, the board would likely submit another $400,000–$500,000 in cuts.
"It will be about $400,000 less than the original," Bshara said, noting the board plans a meeting the following night to explain the adjustments and urge parents and residents to vote. Board member Chris Phipps and others emphasized the importance of transparent communication; Phipps said the board should post clear information so the process does not appear secretive.
Assistant Superintendent Steve Bergin and School Business Administrator Mr. Marriott were reported to be preparing a budget hearing and said a second payment for Special Education reimbursement — expected to be about $983,000 after recent legislative changes — may arrive soon and will affect planning.
Mat Hough, speaking during public comment, said confusion on social media about funding (including the town budget and an Alliance grant) makes public explanation important. The board reiterated they will present details at scheduled outreach meetings ahead of the referendum.
