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NBCPHA split over 3–5% increase to BME shared-services line; final vote delayed
Summary
Members debated a request from BME Strategies for a 3–5% FY26 increase to the shared-service coordinator line; the group split between no increase and a 3% increase and deferred a final decision to the strategic planning meeting next week.
During budget deliberations on June 11, Meghan Russell of BME Strategies asked the Northern Bristol County Public Health Alliance to consider a 3–5% increase to the shared-service coordinator (SSC) line in FY26 to cover overhead, administration and fringe. Meghan said the SSC rate is an all-inclusive line that had not been increased last year and that the FY26 request reflects organizational costs rather than a single employee’s cost.
"We are asking for a 3–5% increase," Meghan Russell said, describing the rate as an all-inclusive annual amount that accounts for overhead and administrative support. She noted the contract entered was a one-year agreement with two renewal options and that FY26 would be the second renewal; the contract is planned for rebid in FY27.
Some members opposed an increase. Sherri Miller-Bedau said a board member (Dan) was not in favor, and Sharon Jamieson reported that the board had voted against an increase the day prior. AnneMarie Fleming said she would not support 5% but would be comfortable with 3% if the majority favored it. Danielle Gurgel voiced support for 3%, citing BME's performance and advocacy for the alliance.
The municipalities on the call were split between a 3% increase and no increase; members agreed to take a final vote during the first half of the strategic planning meeting next week. The group did not adopt a contract change or a binding fiscal decision at this meeting.
