Greenwich Officials Propose Budgets for 2024-25 to BET Budget Committee
Greenwich Officials Propose Budgets for 2024-25, Focus on Education and Infrastructure
On Tuesday night, Greenwich First Selectman Fred Camillo, Board of Education Chair Karen Kowalski, and Schools Superintendent Dr. Toni Jones presented their proposed budgets for the 2024-25 fiscal year to the Board of Estimate and Taxation budget committee. The budget committee, chaired by Leslie Tarkington and including members David Weisbrod, Leslie Moriarty, and BET chair Harry Fisher, listened as the officials outlined their plans for the upcoming year.
First Selectman Fred Camillo began by highlighting the importance of education in the community, citing a recent resident satisfaction survey where residents identified the quality of education and the state of the schools as top priorities. He proposed a capital budget that included investments in town infrastructure, such as annual paving, highway maintenance, stormwater drainage, and soil remediation at Greenwich High School.
Camillo also addressed concerns about the Capital Improvement Program (CIP) process, noting that the focus had shifted from a long-term 15-year plan to a 5-year horizon. He outlined various projects, including a sidewalk extension on Shore Road, congestion mitigation and air quality improvements, and pedestrian safety initiatives.
In addition to infrastructure projects, Camillo discussed revenue sources for the town, including increases in fire department review fees, municipal solid waste tipping fees, rental of town facilities, and revenue from the town-owned nursing home, the Nathaniel Witherell.
On the education front, BOE Chair Karen Kowalski presented the proposed operating budget, which reflected a 5.6% increase over the previous year. She emphasized the impact of legal mandates for Pre-K and special education, noting the need for additional resources to meet these requirements.
Superintendent Dr. Toni Jones highlighted the growth in special education and pre-K populations, as well as the challenges posed by changing enrollment patterns and state mandates. She emphasized the need for additional staff and services to support students with diverse needs.
During public comment, residents expressed support for fully funding the school budget, with some highlighting the importance of investing in school facilities and educational programs. Others raised concerns about the budgetary pressures facing the district and urged the BET to prioritize education funding.
Overall, the proposed budgets for 2024-25 focus on enhancing education, improving infrastructure, and addressing the needs of the community. The budget committee will continue to review and refine the proposals in the coming weeks before making final decisions on funding allocations.
