PRIORITIES COMMITTEE

APRIL 6, 2010

                                      EXECUTIVE SESSION MINUTES

The Priorities Committee met in Executive Session at 6:39 p.m. in the Sharon Town Hall with the following present:

Members Present:

Chair:                          William Heitin

Board of Selectmen:   Richard Powell and “Joe” Roach (ALT)

Finance Committee:    Ira Miller and Charles Goodman

School Committee:       Glenn Allen and Linda Callan 

Others Present:

William Fowler, Barbara Dunham, and Benjamin E. Puritz

SCHOOL COLLECTIVE BARGAINING

Superintendent Dr. Barbara Dunham, representing the School Department requested the Priorities Committee allow a reduction in the Fixed and Uncontrollable of costs (Health Insurance) of $246,867.60 with $190,088.05 to be allocated to the School sector and $56,779.55 allocated to the Town Sector.  This reduction in insurance is based on the Sharon Teachers Association (STA) members accepting a 75/25 split in insurance premium payments, resulting in a savings of $246,867.60.

A discussion of the impact on other collective bargaining contracts took place. In addition, there was a brief discussion regarding potential changes in collective bargaining laws relative to health insurance and whether now was the appropriate time to vote on this proposal.

A MOTION was made by Charles Goodman and seconded by Richard Powell to reallocate $246,867.60 from the Health Insurance Budget in Fixed and Uncontrollable with $190,088.05 going to the School sector and $56,779.55 to the Town sector.  The reallocation will be based upon successful union negotiations, with a ratified contract by Town Meeting, that will result in a savings in Health Insurance of at least $246,867.60.     VOTED: 5-1-0  (Ira Miller opposed)

The meeting was adjourned at 7:39 p.m.