After days of meetings, the Budget Overview Committee (BOC) of the Greenwich BET (Board of Estimate & Taxation) has finished its process of reviewing and refining budget proposals from town departments. The four-member bipartisan BOC composed of 2 Republicans and 2 Democrats could only find agreement on minor cuts. They moved forward an operating budget of $508.6 million and capital spending of $54.35 million.
Unless further cuts are made, residents face a decade high 4.42% increase in the mill rate.
Education department spending which accounts for about 40% of the total budget, continues a trend of increases well above other town departments. The two Republicans on the BOC, Leslie Tarkington (Chair) and Harry Fisher, were frustrated that they could not find agreement on further cuts with the two Democrats, Leslie Moriarty and David Weisbrod. The education budget is double the guidelines and is a key driver to the higher mill rate. Other cost pressures include union labor contract settlements, health care expenses and utility prices.
The budget will now be sent to the full BET for further debate. In this 12-member body Republicans have the tie-breaking vote. It is at this meeting where Republicans will fight to make necessary cuts to prevent the unprecedented increase in the mill rate. Public hearings are scheduled for March 26 at 7pm for the education department and March 27 for the other town departments. A final vote is expected on April 1 and in May the budget is presented to the town legislature (RTM) for approval.
Between the Lines - While we love our public schools, we already spend far more per student than our peers and student enrollments in Greenwich are flat to down. By keeping an eye on spending, we make Greenwich affordable for all residents.