1. CALL TO ORDER

2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG

Council President deMedeiros called the meeting to order with the pledge of allegiance to the flag.

3. ROLL CALL

Present

Absent

Councilor Milbourne

Administrator Cotta, Solicitor Marcello, Clerk Chabot, and Deputy Clerk Veegh were also present.

4. PRESENTATION OF THE PROPOSED 2023-2024 UNIFIED BUDGET ORDINANCE

Council President deMedeiros opened noting this was the first year of the new budget process. Council had several meetings with department heads, Town Administrator, Boards and Commissions listening to their requests before being presented with the Budget Committee recommendations. She added that public comments would be heard and a final vote taken at the next regular meeting on Monday, June 12.

Reading aloud the proposed 2023-2024 budget line summary, President deMedeiros noted capital expenses were again low, due to the utilization of casino monies and holding off on large expenses. She stated the tax rate would be 2.47%, representing a $110 increase on the average house value of $360k. Other highlights mentioned were two additional positions had been created, a deputy fire chief and a part time recreation director and the Pay As You Throw (PAYT) program was continued, adding $370, 000 towards landfill closing expenses.       

Council Vice President Burk read the 2023-2024 proposed unified budget FY24 resolutions. Solicitor Marcello announced that after consulting with the tax collector, there would be a minor change in language regarding the
collection of taxes, when taxes are due and collectible as well as the installation of interest rates on late taxes.

5. PUBLIC HEARING ON THE FISCAL YEAR 2024 UNIFIED BUDGET ORDINANCE

Council President deMedeiros opened the public hearing.

Resident Sanford Mantell asked why a $154,000 lease payment that should be considered capital, was not coming from the casino fund. Administrator Cotta explained Council had not chosen to pay off that lease debt, continuing with existing lease terms. The Administrator and Council answered other questions Mr. Sanford raised related to DPW repair expenses, pension funding ratios, OPEB and unfunded liabilities.  

As no others came forward to speak, Council President deMedeiros closed the public hearing.

SUMMARY OF PROPOSED UNIFIED BUDGET IN ACCORDANCE WITH

ARTICLE III, Section 301 (b)9 of the Tiverton Home Rule Charter

Councilor Janick motioned to adjourn the meeting. Seconded by Councilor Edwards V, the motion passed unanimously. The meeting adjourned at 7:25 PM.

A True Copy.

ATTEST________________________________

                    Joan B. Chabot, Town Clerk