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Selectmen recommend $200,000 stabilization transfer for Halifax elementary school costs, call it a short-term fix
Summary
Selectmen voted to recommend Line 69: a $200,000 transfer from stabilization to cover elementary school costs and called the measure a temporary 'band aid' while urging work toward a comprehensive override and restoration of funds once free cash is recertified.
At their July 29 meeting the Board of Selectmen recommended that town meeting approve Line 69: a proposed $200,000 transfer from the town’s stabilization fund to cover elementary school costs.
Members repeatedly described the transfer as a temporary measure. "These are Band Aids," the Chair said during discussion, adding that the town needs a comprehensive override or other longer-term revenue solutions to address growth and ongoing school needs. Board members noted the stabilization fund balance was over $2,000,000 (one member cited $2,029,000 at the last check) and said the intention is to replenish stabilization when approximately $727,000 expected reimbursement is recertified by the state.
The board moved, seconded and voted to recommend Line 69. Members said department and school officials (including the superintendent) will be prepared to explain specifics at town meeting if voters ask how the funds will be used.
"The plan and the hope and the commitment that we're making here tonight would be to replenish those funds once those funds are certified by the state," the Chair said.
The recommendation is advisory to town meeting; members emphasized the recommendation reflects a short-term bridging strategy pending free-cash recertification.
