Barrington approves $57.7-million budget
11:49 PM Wed, May 27, 2009 | Permalink
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BARRINGTON, R.I. _ Voters last night approved a $57.7-million budget without batting an eyelash. In the end, the much-anticipated backlash to the school budget never materialized. Despite numerous questions about awarding salary increases to teachers, voters restored $849,805 to the school budget by a vote of 569 to 323. The town Committee on Apppropriations had recommended a $41.5-million school budget, which included an increase of $898,000 over the current year. The School Committee, however, had asked for a $1.8-million increase over the current budget, and, in the end, got what it asked for. It was clear that school supporters turned out in force at last night's annual Financial Town Meeting, which was moved to the high school gymnasium because a large crowd was expected. And nearly 1,000 voters turned out, although it was less than the 1,500 some observers anticipated. The municipal side of the budget was approved swiftly, in part because most of the crowd left the meeting afer the school budget was approved. Voters OK'd a $16.8-million budget, a 1.5-percent decrease over this year's expenditure. The appropriations committee said that the Town Counil and town manager have agreed to ask the municipal unions for a salary freeze this fall that would take place during the first year of their new contracts. Prior to town meeting, a couple of residents had filed motions to trim the municipal budget, but those motions were withdrawn. Town Meeting also authorized a $3-million bond to clean up two former town landfills; a $1-million bond to replace the roofs at two schools; and $1 million to repair town roads, sidewalks and drainage ditches. Voters also approved a tax rate of $16.10 per $1,000 assessed valuation. 
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The number of town resident teachers who are able to vote on a salary/budget increase is impressive!
Barrington's voting system at future Financial meetings needs to be assessed. Voting should be non-influenced by the environment. For example, sitting next to my child's teacher had an impact on my vote. I was present but did not vote last night!
To the teacher group who rallyed on the back bleachers, honestly how many of you were non-residents?
I believe most residents support our great schools receiving more money for academics not administrators personal lifestyles. I struggle with the administration not being forth coming with a salary freeze to help reduce additional tax burdens for Barrington households.
Enjoy your summer off as I and many others continue to work to support this increase!
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