The Board of Finance in Westport has unanimously approved an education operating budget of $150.4 million for the fiscal year 2025-26. This approval came after a brief meeting that lasted less than half an hour, during which concerns were raised about the sustainability of future budgets with similar spending increases. Notably, this budget constitutes around 63% of all public expenditures in Westport for the upcoming fiscal year. Additionally, the board endorsed nearly $7.7 million for servicing long-term school district debt. The discussions highlighted the challenges posed by uncertain state and federal funding as well as limited property tax growth.
In a recent development, Westport's financial authorities have given their nod to an educational budget exceeding $150 million, designed to support the town’s acclaimed public schools. While acknowledging the necessity of such allocations, members expressed apprehension regarding the feasibility of sustaining comparable increments in subsequent years due to external economic factors. Jeff Hammer, a board member, warned that the proposed 4.7% increase might not be tenable moving forward, citing modest property value growth and unpredictable governmental aid.
Despite these concerns, Board of Education Chair Lee Goldstein emphasized the absence of unnecessary expenses within the budget. She underscored the meticulous planning involved, including difficult decisions like eliminating three full-time roles—two assistant principal positions at elementary schools and one district facilities coordinator—to achieve savings approximating $770,000. Furthermore, reductions in the school bus fleet aim to streamline transportation costs without compromising service quality.
Health insurance expenses significantly contribute to the overall budget hike, projected at 1.01% of the total increase. Meanwhile, personnel salaries remain the largest expenditure category, with certified staff receiving a 4.6% raise and non-certified employees seeing a 4.9% bump under contractual agreements for 2025-26. These figures reflect ongoing commitments to maintaining high educational standards amidst fiscal constraints.
Finance board member Liz Heyer commended the collaborative approach taken by both boards in crafting this budget. Having previously served on the school board, she appreciated the groundwork laid prior to submission, easing the finance panel's evaluation process. Other members echoed her sentiments, appreciating specific cost-saving measures while acknowledging broader systemic challenges.
As deliberations continue towards finalizing comprehensive spending plans for 2025-26, including municipal operations, the approved education budget awaits endorsement from the Representative Town Meeting scheduled for May. This milestone underscores a balanced effort to uphold excellence in education despite looming financial uncertainties.