Budget: The proposed operating budget is $23,639,324, up 2.21 percent from last year. The largest increase was reflected in salary increases from collective bargaining agreements ($283,470), as well as health care, dental care and retirement costs for staff.
An additional $30,089 was allocated to purchasing band equipment and classroom furniture. The district’s health services department would like $1,748 to purchase a new audiometer and CPR manikin. The sports department is asking for $11, 624 for uniforms.
The district is also looking to devote $16,683 hiring a full-time English as a Second Language teacher in place of a tutor, as per state Department of Education standards, according to the district’s online budget.
If approved, the tax rate in Belmont will go up $1.14 per $1,000 assessed property value in or $285 for a $250,000 home. In Canterbury, the tax rate would go up $1.08 per $1,000 assessed property value or $270 for a $250,000 home.
Noteworthy articles: The school district would like to discontinue its Energy Expendable Trust Fund and transfer the money in there – now $102,720.78 – to the general fund.
“This fund was created when energy prices were volatile,” the school board wrote in its budget. “This is no longer the case. ”
Contested races: Two three-year positions on the school board are open for election, one from Belmont, and one from Canterbury.
When and where: The first deliberative session will be held on Wednesday at Belmont High School at 6 p.m. Ballot voting will be March 12 from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. at Belmont High School for Belmont residents and Canterbury Town Hall for Canterbury residents.