Budget committee approves small increase to American Legion line after veterans’ presentation

Representatives of the American Legion presented a written request and short history of their local post and asked the Wolfeboro Budget Committee to restore funding to the 2024 level to cover flags, hardware repairs and parade expenses.

The presenter, identified as a past commander and adjutant for the Legion, told the committee the group relies on volunteers and local scout organizations to place flags at veterans’ gravesites and that the organization’s 105-year parade is a recurring cost. He said the American Legion was submitting a revised request for $11,236.

Jim, the committee’s budget presenter, confirmed the proposed budget before the committee contained $8,690 for that agency and that the Legion was requesting $11,236.

A committee member moved to increase the line item by $2,546 to bring the amount to $11,236; a second followed and members discussed the purpose of the increase and the role of volunteer groups in placing flags. ‘‘This will be basically replacing the flags in the towns at the cemeteries, public building, and maintaining the hardware on the poles,’’ the Legion presenter said.

The chair called for a roll-call vote and members present recorded affirmative votes; the motion carried. The committee did not record any opposing votes during the roll call.

The committee then moved on to the next agenda item.

The increase is a one-line change to the proposed operating budget; it will be reflected in the final packet the committee circulates to voters if the committee’s recommendation and the select board’s subsequent approvals remain the same.