By Joan F. Simoneau, Community Reporter
Marlborough – Mayor Arthur Vigeant presented the fiscal year 2016 budget to the City Council at the May 4 meeting, requesting $143.2 million. It was referred to the Finance Committee for review and recommendations. A public hearing has been set for the Monday, May 18, council meeting.
The new budget is 4.5 percent higher than this year’s financial plan, said Vigeant in his communication, emphasizing it is “the result of a collaborative, data driven process involving each of our department heads.”
Among financial items affecting the proposal is an increase of $3.2 million in total state aid, and savings of $320,000 savings in the Information Technology and Public Works departments. The savings and increased financial help are offset by the 4.5-percent jump in the School Department, and an 8-percent increase for health insurance.
Adding to the budget is a 7.3-percent increase in the city’s share of operational costs for the Assabet Valley Regional Technical High School, a 5-percent hike in the price of water from the Mass. Water Resources Authority (MWRA), and a quirk in the calendar that makes fiscal year 2016 the year with an extra payroll week.
Other than mandatory expenses, the mayor said he is proposing funds for part-time help for the Council on Aging, including a part-time janitor for the new Senior Center, and a part-time community events coordinator who will work for the Recreation Department.
“This position has long been lobbied by [Ward 7 City] Councilor [Donald R.] Landers and will be responsible for supporting and, in some cases, leading the efforts of major events and programs throughout the city, including the Labor Day Parade,” the mayor stated.
Vigeant also included in his proposed budget a $1,200 stipend for Emergency Management Director Donald Cusson.
“With his persistent pursuit of grant funds and state and federal reimbursements and his diligent handling of snow emergencies, I believe Mr. Cusson provides tremendous value to our city and is more than deserving of this increase,” Vigeant said.
The new budget takes effect July 1, 2016.