We are in a time of uncertainty due to COVID-19 and projected impacts from it over the next two months and beyond.
One area that is moving fast is the Executive Orders coming from the Governor pertaining to Town government operations.
The Town Manager, Staff, Town Attorney, Superintendents, Board of Selectmen, and Board of Education have been working hard these past few weeks to understand these orders while at the same time keeping critical town services operating to assist citizens and businesses wherever we can. In addition, the Town Manager and Finance Director are measuring various economic scenarios and state and federal government responses that may impact the budget in the short and long term.
Meetings related to the Fiscal Year 2020-2021 budget process including, but not limited to, the Board of Selectman BOE Public Hearings, the Annual Town Meeting and the Budget Referendum will be extended using the thirty day timeline allowed in the Governor’s Executive Order. We believe this to be prudent as we deal with the unknown while wanting to preserve the time-honored process of the Annual Town Meeting and Referendum. Current targets include the following:
- May 14, 2020 - Public Hearing BOE & Town
- June 10, 2020 - Town Meeting
- June 24, 2020 - Referendum
- July 1, 2020 – FY21 Budget in place
The 2020-21budget as presented by the Town Manager has been posted on the Town’s website since March 16 in the Finance Department section for those that wish to review it. https://www.townofwinchester.org/board-of-selectmen/pages/town-budget
As meetings are closed to in-person attendance due to COVID-19, Staff Members, the Mayor, and BOS are working to become experienced in video conferencing to connect remotely with the community. Our regular Board of Selectmen meetings and the budget meetings will use video conferencing as long as COVID-19 restrictions remain in place. We will use our regular Channel 194 and add live streaming through YouTube to broadcast to the public. Phone numbers and an email will be set up to receive public comment during these meetings. Agendas will be posted as we always have on the town’s website. Additionally, each agenda will include instructions for accessing the meeting and for the public to submit comments via email or by calling in.
On another note, we appreciate all of the people in the community that are assisting others in this difficult time. Time after time, we see neighbors step up and help. We hope all of you are staying safe and if you need anything, please reach out.
Candy Perez
Mayor
Town of Winchester