1. Call to Order

Council President DeMedeiros called the meeting to order at approximately 6:05 PM and called the Town Council portion of the Joint Workshop to order with a roll call.

Council President DeMedeiros, Vice President Burk, Councilor Janick, Councilor Milbourne, Councilor Paull, and Council Edwards were present. Councilor Edwards V was absent. Town Administrator Cotta and Town Clerk Chabot were also present.

School Committee Chairman Jerome Larkin called the School Committee portion of the Joint Workshop to order. Present were Chair Larkin, Vice Chair Pavao, and Member Farnworth. Absent were Member DeCotis and Member Pallasch.

Budget Committee Chair Janick called the Budget Committee portion of the Joint Workshop to order. Present were Michael Janick, Mary Wall, Todd Cherry, and Abigail Despres. Absent: Diana Perdomo Daniel Deren

2. Discussion on Fiscal Year 2024/2025 Budget

Council President DeMedeiros updated the group on the upcoming Council meeting on February 20, 2024, at 7:00 PM, regarding casino gaming funds and American Recovery money for capital expenditures.

Administrator Cotta stated budget is in process. He spoke regarding union contracts: Police - will start negotiations this month, Teamsters – in mediation, Fire – personnel issues need to be resolved.

Council President DeMedeiros anticipates budget workshops as past practice and budget might be higher percentage this year with contract negotiations.

School Chair Dr. Larkin stated that they have not started yet as yesterday’s School Committee meeting was canceled. No contracts are up for negotiations this year. He expects the budget to be a challenge.

Council President DeMedeiros reminded everyone that the budget is prepared. and submitted to the Town Administrator by March 19, 2024.

Budget Chair Janick asked for clarification on the union contracts.

Administrator Cotta stated that the DPW contract has been in negotiation for a year and a half and would like to resolve it soon, Police will start negotiations this month, the contract ends in June 2025, and the Fire contract ends in 2025.

Administrator Cotta mentioned that we are waiting to see what the state will propose for state aid for education.

Council President DeMedeiros mentioned that the Council has a grant out for the landfill closure, money was put aside from ARPA for the landfill, and hoping that will help the situation. Administrator Cotta will work with the Treasurer to get the final numbers that will be discussed at the February 20 meeting.

3. Adjournment

Budget Committee member Wall motioned to adjourn, seconded by Member Cherry. Motion passed in the affirmative.

School Committee member Farnworth motioned to adjourn, seconded by Vice Chair Pavao. Motion passed in the affirmative.

Town Councilor Janick motioned to adjourn, seconded by Councilor Edwards. Motion passed in the affirmative.

Joint Workshop adjourned at approximately 6:14 PM.

A True Copy.

ATTEST_________________________

                 Joan B. Chabot, Town Clerk