Thursday, June 3, 2010

Frequently asked questions: "Why is Franklin continually facing budget gaps?"

Why is the school district continually facing budget gaps?

Franklin, as with many Massachusetts municipalities, is faced with structural deficits as costs and services rise faster than the available 2.5% increase of annual tax revenues. Health insurance, retiree health insurance, contractual obligations, and unfunded federal and state mandates result in cost increases that outpace the 2.5% annual increase limit. To become more fiscally sound, Franklin needs to continue to operative efficiently and keeping cost relatively low while and generating additional tax revenues in order to provide the high level of services that citizens desire but at a reasonable financial cost to such citizens.


What has the School Committee and administration done to budget in a fiscally conservative manner?

Over the last 10 years, Franklin has (i) significantly reduced and/or eliminated programs and positions (over 100) while meeting higher educational standards/accountability requirements as established by federal and state law, (ii) consolidated facilities and technology services, and (iii) effectively sought and received grants to offset a variety of operational costs. Moreover, Franklin has implemented a number of “Go Green” energy savings initiatives including (A) solar panels at Parmenter Elementary School, and (B) water gardens at Franklin High School. Finally, Franklin has implemented a variety of online services to reduce personnel costs and paper consumption.

One of a series to address frequently asked questions
http://investinfranklin.weebly.com/faq-part-1.html


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The special election on June 8th gives Franklin voters the choice:

Increase taxes to continue to provide the services we have this year (and that does not restore any of the services already cut)

Or

Continue to cut municipal services for all and cut educational opportunities for our children

I'll help to provide the information. You need to do two things:
  1. Make your choice
  2. Vote on June 8th

You get bonus points if you talk with your neighbors about this and get them to vote!

Additional information on the override can be found here:


Franklin, MA

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