WOODSTOCK – After fearing the worst from a school budget standpoint, selectmen were relieved Tuesday to hear some good news from SAD 44 Superintendent David Murphy,
Murphy said that it appears the district will be exempt from the governor’s school funding plan if it’s passed by the Legislature.
Murphy said he received word that the Department of Education plans to keep district funding the same as in the past.
“This is not written in stone as yet,” said Murphy. “But it sounds as if we may be exempt from the new funding formula proposed by Gov. Baldacci if the Legislature passes the plan.”
He added: “I believe the bill is to be considered before this week is over so we should know right away how we are going to stand.”
Without the exemption, he said the district budget could be forced up 20 to 30 percent over fiscal 2005 spending.
“I hope what we have learned from Dave will prove correct,” said Town Manager Vern Maxfield.
In other business, selectmen authorized Maxfield to go ahead with a plan to make the handicapped ramp at the Whitman Memorial Library in Bryant Pond safer.
“After several people have suggested putting a roof over the ramp to keep it free from ice and snow, the board decided it should be done as soon as possible.
That decision has been made especially important due to the frequent rain and ice storms we have had so far this winter,” Maxfield said.
The project is expected to cost $2,300. It will be completed by contractor John Winningham.
Selectmen scheduled a special selectmen’s meeting for 5 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 25, to begin budget discussions.
The meeting is open to the public.
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