In Norwell, Town Administrator Peter Morin presented more than $720,000 in reductions for the FY 2021 budget.
“That lines up with the 15 percent cut on the state aid and a 15 percent cut in local receipts,” said Morin. “That totals to about $1,429,000, estimated.”
Health insurance appropriations would be reduced by $75,000. OPEB funding would be reduced by $80,000. Most budgets on the town side would be reduced including the Highway Department, Library, and the Council on Aging.
A crossing guard position would be laid off in the Police Department, a new hire would be delayed until the later part of FY 21, and two cruisers would be purchased instead of three.
The Fire Department budget would be reduced through vacancies that are anticipated during FY 21, and staggering the hiring of new vacancies. Lower salaries for new executive positions in the department are expected.
Morin says the spending made for remote communications equipment will be reimbursed through CARES Act funding.
The school and town officials are working closely on $720,000 in reductions.
“It has been a very good and solid working relationship which I’ve shared numbers both with the union and the school committee,” said Morin. “We’ve had good dialogue. I think there is good will and trust on both sides.”
Per Morin’s contract and at his recommendation, the Selectmen approved a freeze on wage increases to his contract.
“When I wrote this, I wish that it wasn’t as prescient as I turned out to be. I think this is a necessary step for the Board to take. It is also in line with what I am asking other departments, other managers, other contract non-union employees…to bear the same burden,” said Morin. “I cannot ask other people to do something and not be willing to do it myself.”
