Board of Finance tie vote fails to advance Andover Elementary 7.5% recommendation

The Andover Board of Finance voted on a motion to send the Andover Elementary School budget recommendation of 7.5% forward to the town meeting and referendum but the motion failed on a 3–3 tie.

The motion, moved by Liz and seconded by Louise, reflected the board’s prior recommendation after reviewing school budget materials and legal guidance. Board members who voted in favor were Liz, Kim and Louise; those opposed were Rob, Bill and Heather, leaving the motion without the majority required to advance the recommendation.

Board members debated whether to press the reduction now or allow the town meeting and referendum process to play out. Proponents of the 7.5% recommendation cited the board’s review of actuals and the town attorney’s opinion regarding the board’s authority to prepare a final budget after the hearing; opponents expressed concern about the budget’s size and said voters should have a clear chance to speak at the town meeting. As Lisa noted, the town attorney’s opinion cites a statutory provision allowing the Board of Finance to prepare a final budget “subsequent to such hearing and review.”

Public speakers before and during the meeting voiced mixed views. Joanne, a resident at public comment, said the budget “is a little bit too high” and urged tighter cuts; other residents including Scott Soyatt and Valerie urged support for the school budget and cautioned against cutting school services.

Because the motion failed, the AES recommendation remains in flux. Board members agreed the matter could be revisited at the next board meeting when absent member Nick could participate, and that the town meeting and referendum process will provide additional opportunities for public input and formal motions.

The board adjourned after confirming next steps for finalizing presentation materials ahead of the public hearing.