ORSC Annual Bake

Don't Forget...

Tomorrow September 1, 2013 The Otter River Sportsman's Club Annual Bake. Cooler raffle tickets proceeds to help the Kasper Family. Tickets are $5.00 each. Annual Bake tickets are separate.

from Bev

I have to respond to the blog, Override Will Likely Be Called For In Templeton. This afternoon I was thinking about the mess the town is in. Believe it or not, I was in Sturbridge with my friend shopping, when it hit me. So when I got home I sat down to check, to see if what I thought I had read was right. I'll be dammed, but I was right. Concerned citizen 47,8/28 wrote "We have more people than ever before looking at the budgets. Most people that I have talked to didn't know they could, until this was brought to light". You know I really want every one to read this and think about what we just went through.

We need to pass an override in Templeton

To the Editor: 8/30/2013

Lori Mattson Templeton To the Editor: I would like to thank the voting members of Phillipston and Templeton for advocating, supporting and eventually passing the Narragansett Regional School District’s FY14 budget. Although it was a very long, drawn out process, proving stressful for everyone involved, it was a legal process that the School Committee had the right to choose. There was no hidden agenda, no malicious plans and no schemes. Doing what’s best and just for the students attending NRSD is what’s right. It is unfortunate the town of Templeton is so far off on finances and priorities. The joint town meeting was eye opening as both a selectmen and a finance committee member from Phillipston proudly made statements supporting education for all students. It was touching to hear one Phillipston resident state that she was torn as to how she would vote knowing that her yes vote could negatively impact so many Templeton residents.

August 26th BOS Meeting...the movie

August 26, 2013 BOS Meeting…the movie

Part 1 of the August 26^th BOS Meeting

Part 2 of the August 26^th BOS Meeting

Part 3 of the August 26^th BOS Meeting

Enjoy!

LTE by Virginia Wilder

Reasons for concern over finances in Templeton Letter to the Editor: 8-28-2013

Virginia Wilder Templeton To the Editor: The other night, I attended the joint town meeting with other residents from Templeton and a contingent of Phillipston residents. The purpose of this meeting was, once again, to vote on the Narragansett School District budget. Members of the finance advisory boards from both towns, members of the Board of Selectmen from Phillipston, the School Committee and three attorneys all sat before us. Each, in turn, had their opportunity to defend or explain their position on this vitally important vote. Obviously missing from those sitting before us was the Board of Selectmen from Templeton. The moderator informed us that the selectmen from Templeton had declined the opportunity to do so.

Selectmen reach out on Phoenix Court resident complaints

Kerry O'Brien News Staff Writer TEMPLETON — The Board of Selectmen recently reached out to the state Department of Housing and Community Development on behalf of several residents of the Phoenix Court housing development at 99 Bridge St. who say ongoing issues of maintenance and responsiveness from staff at the site are not being addressed. “We’ve gone to (the Templeton Housing Authority) so many times in the past and nothing happens. It’s ridiculous,” said resident Michael Casavant. “If something comes up, it gets swept under the carpet every time.” Louise Chaffee, director of the housing authority, said the complaints are “invalid.” “We have done tons of stuff to improve the property, and they’re picking on these little things,” she said.

Farrell sorry for 'poor choice of words' in post

Says online message was 'extreme reaction' after 'Gansett budget vote

Kerry O'Brien News Staff Writer TEMPLETON — After referring to the outcome of the recent joint town meeting between Templeton and Phillipston on the Narragansett Regional School District’s budget as a “financial gang rape” in an online forum, Selectman Julie Farrell has apologized for her language but is standing by her view that the “system is broken.” “In my opinion the ‘yes’ vote at the joint town meeting is a major indication that the political and legal system is seriously flawed — I believe it is broken,” she wrote in a statement. “I am apologizing for my poor choice of words.”

Override will likely be sought in Templeton

Officials mull options in wake of joint vote on 'Gansett budget

Kerry O'Brien News Staff Writer TEMPLETON — With town officials and residents pushing for a plan on how to meet the new assessment from the Narragansett Regional School District, members of the Board of Selectmen said definitive plans will require discussion and final figures from the district, while a significant Proposition 2 1/2 override is likely to be sought for the town. “An override is obviously the first thing to try for,” said selectmen Chairman Jeffrey Bennett. “This is not a want, this is a need.” Voters at a joint Templeton and Phillipston town meeting Aug. 22 approved Narragansett’s full assessments for both communities, representing an estimated $551,000 more than Templeton had previously supported. Police Chief David Whitaker — whose department is among those facing reductions on the municipal side of the budget to meet the required level of school funding — was one of several present during Monday’s meeting of the select board seeking answers. “We should have had a tentative plan,” he said. “We need to come together, not within the next couple of months, but the next 30 days, and start creating a plan. I have 25 employees I’m meeting with tomorrow morning. They’re going to want answers ... The longer we delay, the deeper the cuts, and it’s going to hurt not only the town employees but the town residents.”

Cuts v Override

Well unless you have been living under a rock, you are all aware that $551,000 needs to taken from the Town Budget and given to the Narragansett school district. The School Committee will be certifying their budget amount at their next meeting on Wednesday August 28th.
So here we are with a $551,000 short fall in the town budget.

August 26 BOS Meeting

BOS Meeting August 26, 2013

The August 26, 2013 BOS meeting began with the pledge and a moment of silence for Charlie Perkins, may he rest in peace.

Six sets of minutes were approved. There was an amendment to one set of minutes. It was previously stated that the FEMA reimbursement was $2713. The actual figure was over  $27,000.

Just a reminder

ORSC Annual Bake and Cooler Raffle

WhenSunday, Sep 1, 2013

WhereOtter River Sportsman Club (map)

DescriptionCooler raffle tickets proceeds to help the Kasper Family. Tickets are $5.00 each. Annual Bake tickets are separate. Tickets for the raffle to help the Kasper Family are available at Templeton Light & Water, Templeton Highway Dept. or the ORSC

School Committee Meeting

School Committee Meeting Wednesday August 28th at 6:30 PM in the NHS Kiva

RePost

JimAugust 25, 2013 at 12:23 PM
Well at least these latest actions by the school comity got people talking. I only wish that had happened before we got to where we are now. Seriously I think that any reasonable administrator should be able to live with a 10 % cut. Innovative solutions could help ease the pain. People should spend the towns money as wisely and with as much care as they use with their own. We should make every effort to work with everyone and try to find the best solution. Money can be found to make a new office as demonstrated by the last superintendent. Money can be found to build a scale model of a new elementary school prior to securing the land. Money can be found for 2 buses to take students and faculty on a trip to Boston to attempt to sway the vote to get land for a new school. All this and the voters have not approved a new school.

Joint Town Meeting...the movie

 Joint Town Meeting...the movie

Part 1 of the Joint Town Meeting August 22, 2013

Part 2 of the Joint Town Meeting August 22, 2013

The audio is not that great. You may need to adjust the volume as you listen along with the video.

Fluoridation: Why Not

 

Fluoridation: Why NOT

by Thomas D. Bonfigli (Clean Water Sonoma Marin, a group which opposes water fluoridation)

Recently, the Press Democrat editorial department wrote an editorial criticizing our Grand Jury for not endorsing municipal water fluoridation.  While I, too, am disappointed that they took no stand, it is for the opposite reason, as I do not feel that fluoride, which is a by-product of the phosphate-fertilizer industry, belongs in our precious Sonoma County Water supply.  The dangerous side effects caused by fluoride are numerous, and include dental fluorosis, bone fractures and, as proven recently by a Harvard University study, diminution of I.Q.

With sadness we say good bye to Charlie Perkins

Charles H. Perkins

Charles H. “Perk” Perkins, 79, of Templeton, died Thursday, August 22, 2013 in Heywood Hospital after a short illness. Perk, as he was fondly known, was born June 14, 1934, in St. Johnsbury, Vermont, son of the late Charles P. and Elsa (Perham) Perkins and graduated from Petersham High School in 1952. He proudly served in the United States Army and worked as a service manager for Chrysler for many years. He also served as Regional President for Service Managers of Chrysler Association. Perk was also a firefighter in Templeton and was one of the original members of the “Rescue 8” rescue squad, the original rescue and ambulance service in Templeton. Perk also served on the ski patrol for Mt. Watatic, Temple Mountain, Nashoba Valley, and Pat’s Peak.  At the time of his retirement, Perk drove a limousine for Butler Limousine. Perk was an avid beekeeper and was President of the Worcester County Beekeepers Association and served on all board positions. He was a Weblos leader and in charge of the Arrow of Life program. He was an avid golfer, and enjoyed woodworking. He was a member of the First Baptist Church in Gardner, a lifetime member of the Athol/Orange Elks Lodge #1837 and was also an Advisory Board member for the Town of Templeton. He will be greatly missed by his dog, Snoopy. He leaves his wife of 57 years, Mary (Leland) Perkins; one son, Charlie R. Perkins and his wife, Sharon; three step grandchildren, Samuel Dickens of Stoughton, and Brian and Rachel Dickens of Winchendon; two brothers, Clyde Perkins and his wife, Helen of Warwick, and Robert Perkins and his wife, Monika of Petersham; one sister-in-law, Irene Perkins, and many nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his brother, David Perkins. Calling hours will be held Thursday, August 29, 2013 from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the First Baptist Church, 14 High Street, Gardner. A Memorial Service will follow at 1:00 p.m.  Burial will follow in Pine Grove Cemetery in Templeton. Stone-Ladeau Funeral Home, 343 Central St., Winchendon, is assisting the family with arrangements. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the First Baptist Church, 14 High St., Gardner, MA 01440.

Movie Night

Salvadore Auto Movie Night
Tonight, Saturday gates open at 4pm movie at dusk
442 W Broadway

Upcoming Meetings

Selectmen's Meeting Monday, August 26th click here for the Agenda

Recreation Committee Monday August 26th click here for the Agenda

Planning Board Tuesday August 27th click here for the Agenda

And a reminder to stop all the Bu---- with the comments. Please everyone stop the personal attacks. We need to figure this out as a Town. We are sliding down a slippery slope, we need to dig our heels in and come up with solutions. So if you care about the town come to the Selectmen's meeting Monday night so we can figure this mess out.
Thank you!

In FY 2013 a dollar on the tax rate raised $542,840. The number will probably be a little lower for FY 2014. we will not have the town values certified by the DOR for a few more weeks. So a $551,000. override would be about $1.02 on the tax rate. So on a house assessed for $175,000 the increase in taxes would be about $178.50/yr.

Public metings

Public Meetings August 26 – 30^th

BOS Meeting August 26, 2013 agenda

Recreation Committee August 26, 2013 agenda

Not that it's any of your business...

Not that it’s any of your business…

I am going to set the record straight about this comment from huff n puff:

huff n puffAugust 23, 2013 at 11:30 AM

You knew this was the process, & yet you chose not to show up & let your voice be heard. You chose not to vote at the most important meeting in many years in this town. I hope that is remembered at election time.

Joint Town Meeting

The Joint Town Meeting has spoken. The school is getting the full amount that they asked for in an amended motion. When you figure the voter population in Templeton and Phillipston it wasn't a very big turn out. Remember the Town Meeting about the landfill? not only was the auditorium packed, but so was the gym and the cafeteria. So thanks to all who showed up last night and to everyone else, where were you. Do you not care about your town or your school district. I understand some people work nights, but seriously people this is your town and your school district you should care.
Selectman Robinson has said that he knows where the town can cut without layoffs. I hope he's right. and yes we will need an override. Will it pass? Well if the track record of this town is any indication - No it won't. Here are the FY2013 Tax Rates of the surrounding towns.
Ashburnham 18.85
Westminster 18.36
Gardner 17.46
Phillipston 15.56
Athol 15.48
Barre 15.34
Winchendon 14.93
Templeton 14.12
Hubbardston 13.64

Can we all afford to pay a little more?
I know no one wants to have an increase in taxes. But do we want a town without a round the clock Police Department or with out a Fire Department? Everyone got into a big uproar over the possibility of teachers loosing their jobs. But a lot of people don't seam to care about some Templeton Policemen loosing their jobs, or dispatchers or Highway workers or anyone else employed by the town. I felt bad for the lady from Phillipston who spoke about how she felt bad for the Templeton employees and then she was heckled. Do you not get it people, this is people's livelihood. These employees are parents and taxpayers don't they count? So all, this is not the time to bury your heads in the sand. It is not the time to say - okay the school is safe who cares about the town. It is time to come together and help the town.

Anyone want to help out the town and buy a nice building at 252 Baldwinville Road???
Thank you, a  taxpayer and voter.

TONIGHT

I don't think anyone has to be reminded that there is a SPECIAL JOINT TOWN MEETING TONIGHT with Phillipston on the school budget amount. 7:00 pm at NMS auditorium.

I would like to ask people to be respectful not only on this blog but tonight, respectful to the school committee members, selectmen, moderator, people from Phillipston and PEOPLE THAT HAVE A DIFFERENT OPINION. GET IT.

This is a very difficult decision to make for all. so lets go though this again
A YES  vote is not an override vote. It is not going to raise your taxes. The voters voted No to the override for the school. (and do not argue about who the override was for, I am going by what the the WARRANT said.) What a YES vote will mean is we, Templeton voters will have to have another Special Town Meeting for the voters to determine where to take the money from - which town departments, because we have NO RESERVES. Now the Selectmen and the Advisory Board can make suggestions and I am not sure if we still have time to go for a town override. (Help me out here all you smart people). But let's face it do we really think a town override would pass?

A NO vote will send it back to the School Committee and we could do this a couple more times before December and the DESE comes in to review the school budget.

So please attend tonight's meeting, let's keep the heckling to a minimum, let's figure this out as a town.

Gansett budget saga could reach conclusion with joint meeting

Andres Caamano Senior News Editor/NIE Director Could the brouhaha over the Narragansett Regional School District budget finally come to a conclusion with Thursday night’s joint town meeting for Phillipston and Templeton? For Narragansett officials, the goal in recent months has been to get both towns to approve their respective assessments for the district’s fiscal year 2014 budget. “We’ve done a good job of getting the accurate information out, as this is a hard issue for folks,” said Narragansett Superintendent Ruth Miller. “On what could be cut, that information has not always been based on fact, and it’s difficult for folks to understand the issue at hand, and I think the School Committee has done a good job (getting the word out).” Ranging from sending messages via Facebook, organizing meetings, sitting in on Finance Committee meetings, having the issue taken up during School Committee meetings and being “on a conference call in Phillipston Monday night,” the superintendent pointed out just how varied the district’s effort has been in spreading the word throughout the two towns. Nonetheless, part of that challenge has been made more complicated by the ever-changing state budget numbers that never seem to sit still.

More on what cuts will mean

I was asked to post the letter from the Highway Department. This is not a scare tactic these are facts. Ever get into an accident or near accident because of snow or ice? Someone posted the statement of how few fires there are. All it takes is one for you to need the Fire Department. Don't think they are important, ask the owners of the house across from the Candlelite, or ask the residents on Lake Ave. That fire would have taken the whole neighborhood with houses so close. And lets not forget the Otter River Sportmens Club. Need I say more. If you have never needed the Police Department for anything, lucky you. If you think that Templeton is a town where crime doesn't happen - think again. Let's see I remember a drug house in the middle of a Baldwinville neighborhood that through the work of Derek Hall and others was shut down. (That's a nice neighborhood now.) Remember when the Athol Savings Bank was robbed. How about the domestic a few years ago that tragically ended in a murder suicide. How about the drive by shooting a few years ago. House break-ins, car break - ins. I think you get the point. Yes, school is important but so is Public Safety. How about some compromising here? and thanks J and all for some great suggestions. 

Oh yeah, and if you don't like the blog - don't read it. 

	August 20, 2013

8/20/2013 7:10:00 AM Revised figure going to voters at joint meeting on Narragansett budget Phillipston committee urges voters to OK request Kerry O'Brien News Staff Writer PHILLIPSTON — In preparation for Thursday’s joint town meeting with Templeton to act on the Narragansett Regional School District’s budget, town Finance Committee members on Monday discussed planned changes to the meeting motion with Superintendent Ruth Miller and voted to recommend that Phillipston voters approve the School Committee’s requested budget. “There’s another number that will come up that night, and hopefully it will sway everyone to say ‘yes,’” said committee Chairman Tom Specht. The warrant for the meeting states that voters will be asked to approve $6,661,409 for the school district between the two towns. As a result of changes to the minimum local contributions and state aid, however, an amended motion will be presented to request $6,520,782, as Templeton’s assessment has decreased. “I’m going to explain all of this at the meeting and try to make it as simple as possible,” Ms. Miller said. As part of the final state budget for fiscal year 2014, communities that are not meeting their target share for school contributions will not be penalized with a 2-percent increase on their minimum local contribution, as they had in past years. As a result, Phillipston’s minimum local contribution increased $16,862, while Templeton’s decreased $64,593. However, since Narragansett also received more funding than was anticipated from the state, Ms. Miller said the district is able to maintain Phillipston’s assessment at $1,539,708. Templeton’s assessment is now $4,981,074, not including debt service — $561,371 more than what voters have approved. The assessments would provide the school district with a $18,523,946 budget, representing a 1.89 percent increase from level-funding over last year. Narragansett had sought an $850,000 Proposition 2 1/2 override for its budget, with Phillipston’s share at $115,113 and Templeton’s at $691,086. The request was rejected at the polls in both communities, but Phillipston town meeting voters later approved providing their share of the funding through free cash. Ms. Miller recently told Templeton town officials Narragansett has not received an increase in its budget in three years, and has been exhausting its reserve funds to maintain the district’s programming. School committee members have said the failure of the requested budget would require a range of cuts, including six teaching positions, an elementary adjustment counselor, the elementary physical education program, all clubs, the National Honor Society, middle school activities and the music, drama and athletics programs. Templeton officials say they have made severe cuts to their municipal operations budget and drawn from reserves over the past several years, and are therefore unable to provide an increase to the school district. The joint town meeting is set for 7 p.m. Thursday in the Narragansett Regional High School auditorium. If a budget for the district is not approved by Dec. 1, the state Department of Secondary and Elementary Education will step in to oversee the district’s finances.

some question sent to me

Isn't there a hiring freeze for Narragansett right now? Why did the superintendent hire three new people in the central office? So now there are at least 5 employees in her office. All new employee were hired at very high rates of pay, good benefit packages including 10 sick days, 14 holidays, and four (4) weeks vacation. One of these people is right out of college. Positions were HR payroll, Accounts Payable, and Admin. Asst. Also I know special needs aids are hired at $18/hr. No experience, no college degree.
With the possibility of loosing police officers, and other public safety, I have a real problem with this. I hope the DESE comes in because don't forget the town has the power to bring in the AG, DOR and Ethics.

Food for thought

On August 5th, the School Committee convened to discuss the outcome of the July STM and approve the warrant for the August 22nd Joint Town Meeting.  As someone who was in attendance, I wanted to provide the citizens of both towns with further information leading up to this week's important meeting.  The more information that is spread, the better, especially considering many could not attend the SC meeting due to a Board Of Selectman Meeting that had already been scheduled for that night.

Just say NO! ...and Advisory Board...the movie

Just say NO!

And Advisory Board…the movie.

Poison IvyAugust 16, 2013 at 10:39 PM

Mrs. Farrell please stop blaming the school board! The reason you want to lower the minumum contribution is so you can have the pleasure telling them they now get to tell the state the town wants to lower their budget! Sounds like a fun plan of revenge to me. All week the talk has not been in favor of this idea. The 22 should be interesting! :) the children will suffer! Not a good idea! For this alone I'm voting yes, I'm aware this town needs an override with or without the school budget. The school shouldn't wrongfully take the blame for a poorly run town. I pray this upcoming year things get better. It is a shame.

Hey PI – A little current event update for you.

The Advisory Board Meeeting

At last night's Advisory Board Meeting, Rob Hubbard, who will be the Moderator at the Joint Town Meeting on August 22  was in attendance. Thankfully he clarified some thinks.
A YES vote is not an override vote! A Yes vote will mean that we, Templeton will have to go back to another Special Town meeting to vote where we will have to make severe cuts from the Town. 
This is not a threat, this is the cold hard facts.The School Committee has certified the amount which includes the extra $691,000. Ms Miller stated the the motion would be read exactly at it has been posted. A Yes vote will not increased you taxes, the override is off the table. We will have to find the money else where. A NO vote will bring it back to the school committee. They can recertify  the budget again, same amount, lesser or more, and we will have to do this again.

ORSC Annual Bake and Cooler Raffle

ORSC Annual Bake and Cooler Raffle

When

Sunday, Sep 1, 2013

WhereOtter River Sportsman Club (map)

DescriptionCooler raffle tickets proceeds to help the Kasper Family. Tickets are $5.00 each. Annual Bake tickets are separate.
PLEASE HELP SUPPORT THE KASPER FAMILY and of course the ORSCTickets are available at Templeton Light & Water (see Bridget), Templeton Highway Dept., or the Otter River Sportmens Club.

Another comment that deserves a Blog in itself

J has left a new comment on your post "some more notes":

I have been reading this blog since it started and I can say I am ashamed and embarrassed by the negativity regarding the school budget. I have to admit that I have not been to any of the school committee meetings, but I did have two children graduate from Narragansett, I graduated from Narragansett and I was very involved with many activities within the school district, from the PTG to the Athletics. I have seen many changes over the past 10 years and they have not all been positive ones. I should've gone to meetings to suggest cuts that would not affect teaching or the kids, such as eliminate one principal at either the High School or Middle School, keep one vice principal at each school - the vice principal handles disciplinary actions and the principal handles administrative issues - it appears that one principal could manage both schools. eliminate the two adjustment counselors - these positions were "created" and i'm sure some kids use them, but if there are issues at home, or at the

TESBC...the movie

TESBC…the movie

Part 1 of the August 13, 2013 Templeton Elementary School Building Committee

Part 2 of the August 13, 2013 Templeton Elementary School Building Committee

Enjoy!

BOS Meeting ...the movie

August 12 2013 BOS Meeting…the movie

Part 1 of the August 12, 2013 BOS Meeting

Part 2 of the August 12, 2013 BOS Meeting

Part 3 of the August 12, 2013 BOS Meeting

Enjoy!

More funds may be needed to complete school design

Town, district officials sign contract with project manager

Kerry O'Brien News Staff Writer TEMPLETON — Town and Narragansett Regional School District officials signed off on a contract for project manager services for work toward building a school on Crow Hill, Tuesday, but while the signing of the agreement keeps the project on track with the Massachusetts School Building Authority’s reimbursement program, officials acknowledged that there may be a lack of available funds to complete the design phase. “Hopefully we can gather some support,” said Kirk Moschetti, chairman of the Elementary School Building Committee. “We’re looking forward at the next 100 years, not just tomorrow.” In 2009, town meeting provided the school building committee with $550,000 to initiate the project through the MSBA. However, work to locate a suitable site for the new school brought an unexpected financial burden. Although the town recently acquired a parcel of state-owned land by protecting a corresponding piece of town-owned land, there is more work to be done to complete the design phase than the project manger, Jonathan Winikur of Strategic Building Solutions, believes the remaining $250,000 will cover.

Performance Contracting

Performance Contracting ...revisited.

The BOS just received a packet of information from the company Trane regarding a performance contracting project at Monty Tech. The $10,000,000 facility upgrade with NO CAPITAL OUTLAY from supporting communities will be paid using the resultant saving including more $360,000/year.

For more information on this project, please click here.

Proposed Farm Animal Regulations

-->

Proposed Farm Animal Regulations

The Board of Health will have a hearing on the proposed Farm Animal/Barn Regulations on September 5, 2013.

The Templeton Agricultural Committee meeting will be held on August 15, 2013 at 6:40 p.m. One agenda item is to discuss the proposed regulations of farm animals.

FOR THE KIDS...comment from the blog

Templetonian August 13, 2013 at 8:11 AM

Last year Citizens for Templeton raised money at the Craft Fair to buy school supplies, shoes and clothing for the children in need in the Narragansett School System. They also held a fund raiser to help pay hospital bills for a student who experienced a very awful experience last year. In my opinion, that is not "anti-school" and, in fact, quite the opposite. Many who read and post comments on this blog are educators themselves. No one has ever stated that they do not find education important or refusing to pay for it. The majority of the discussion is based around HOW to pay for education and HOW to fix the flawed education system. This is not "anti-school". I would like to know what efforts Gansett Greatness has done to help the children most in need in the school system. Have they done any fundraising? Have they put pressure on the School Committee to find a permanent solution to the flawed education system? Have they done anything to engage the public with school activities or raise awareness on the achievements of the kids in arts, academics, and sports? How about gathering together concerned educators and parents from other districts who are facing unsustainable budgets and lobbying the state to find a solution? That would be greatness. Positive activism is far more productive than creating a town vs. school war. I'm sure the Citizens for Templeton would be happy to help raise money for kids that can't afford sports fees. Maybe Gansett Greatness can partner with them and actually work together to do something positive FOR THE KIDS. How about having a concert on the common to raise money for the band uniforms? We all need to think outside the box and try to solve problems by putting out heads together instead of tearing each other down. Some say that Templeton is going down the drain and they threaten to send their kids elsewhere or move. I say 'don't let the door hit you on the way out'. These people do not love this town the way I do and do not have a true concept of community. Stop asking what can the town give you and start asking what can you give to the town. When times get tough, we have to work harder TOGETHER to embrace the good and bring the town back to its original glory, not quit. Quitters never win. Winners never quit.

August 12, 2013 BOS Meeting

BOS Meeting…August 12, 2013

After approval of the minutes, discussion began about a letter of complaint the BOS received from some residents at Phoenix Court. Three residents attended the BOS and delivered some disturbing news about the lack of maintenance and upkeep of the common rooms and the grounds. There were no representatives from the Templeton Housing Authority (THA) present. While the BOS has no direct authority over the Templeton Housing Authority, it was voted to send a letter to the director of the Templeton Housing Authority as well as the state agency (State Housing and Community Development) that oversees THA.

Some facts and questions

To answer the question of who were the pass chairmen of the advisory board, before Mr Matson we had Debra Dennis and Linda McClure.

Someone asked for the last few years well here they are. But please remember some years had debt exclusions and I believe one year had an override.

2013 14.12

2012 14.60

2011 12.55

2010 11.75

2009 10.20

2008 9.20

2007 8.54

2006 9.44

2005 9.91

2004 11.65

2003 13.68

2002 13.56

2001 12.03

2000 11.82

1999 11.88

Now for a question - and yes I have a  grandchild and great grandchild currently in the school system and two more grandchildren and two great grandchildren who will attend in a few years. They all live in town and their families and extended families pay taxes. Years ago you just sent your kids to the school in the town/district you lived in. I you had a problem with that school system you sent your kid to private school. I had one grandchild that his parents sent him to parochial school at their cost. years ago  when people moved many chose the town to live in by the school system. We seem to have become a society of lets move where there are cheap houses and taxes and then opt for school choice and make the district that is struggling pay. I realize that the students that opt in to Narragansett give us money but is it really worth it when you weigh having more kids coming into the district? Just a question.
Thanks for listening.

Other meetings

Other meetings this week

Sewer Commission Monday August 12th click here for agenda

Planning Board Tuesday August 13th click here for the agenda

Advisory Board Thursday August 15th click here for agenda

some more notes

Someone asked about other school districts that the DESE came to.
Here's the link for what happened at Wachusett Regional school district


Here's another link for some interesting reading

also from the Telegram
June 04. 2013 12:00AM

Quabbin Regional school budget may face increase

BARRE   Late-breaking fiscal information now means that Quabbin Regional School District towns assessments for the schools are no longer worth the paper they were written on, school administrators said during an emergency board meeting Monday.

Barre was poised to absorb a 2 percent assessment hike, according to the fiscal 2014 budget approved by Quabbin Regional School Committee. It now faces a 5 percent spike, to almost $4.6 million, an increase of more than $120,000.

Quabbin Superintendent Maureen M. Marshall said she recently obtained data from a Statehouse source that will result in a mammoth and problematic shift in how the assessments totaling $13,118,662 are shared by the districts five towns.

With Chapter 70 state aid, the school board approved spending $31,755.822 for the fiscal year that begins July 1.

Hardwick is also likely to see a higher assessment, Mrs. Marshall said, while Hubbardston, New Braintree and Oakham assessments will decline.

Mrs. Marshall and Cheryl Duval, Quabbin director of administrative services, said the Legislature has not provided estimated required spending amounts, making the district unable to adequately forecast the fiscal 2014 budget.They said they have been scouring legislators and their aides for the data for months, to no avail.

The administration sought the information from state Rep. Anne Gobi, D-Spencer, who replied in April 12 email that the House Ways and Means Committee cannot provide me with any information on Minimum Local Contribution amounts.

The state Education Department advised the district earlier this year that until the state budget is passed, local school officials should be having discussions with town finance officials about the likely range of numbers, rather than trying to definitively pin down one official number.

 James F. Russell

Article about Wachusett October 12, 2012

Wachusett Finance Article

Wachusett finances could go to the state

By Melissa McKeon ITEM CORRESPONDENT  

HOLDEN — A state takeover of the Wachusett Regional School District’s finances could be the solution to the district’s fiscal 2012 $1.2 million in overspending, School Committee member Julianne Kelley reported to the board Tuesday night.

Worth a shot...you betcha!

-->

Worth a shot…you betcha!

This article was in today’s Gardner News:

'Worth a shot' to pursue school contribution change, says Templeton selectman

Kerry O'Brien

News Staff Writer

TEMPLETON — As disagreement over how much the town should provide the Narragansett Regional School District continues, Selectman Julie Farrell is proposing that Templeton inquire about a new law which lowers qualified communities’ required contributions to their school districts.

Aug 9th TGN

'Worth a shot' to pursue school contribution change, says Templeton selectman Kerry O'Brien News Staff Writer TEMPLETON — As disagreement over how much the town should provide the Narragansett Regional School District continues, Selectman Julie Farrell is proposing that Templeton inquire about a new law which lowers qualified communities’ required contributions to their school districts. “It’s worth a shot,” Ms. Farrell said. Using a formula based on community’s overall wealth, the state sets the minimum local contribution to the district from the municipality. According to town officials, this year, Templeton’s minimum location contribution was $3,687,548.

Meetings

Selectmen Meeting Monday August 12th the agenda is here

here is also a  ELEMENTARY SCHOOL BUILDING COMMITTEE MEETING
August 13, 2013– 5:30 p.m. TEMPLETON TOWN OFFICES

Just some local facts

There seems to be some nasty comments appearing on the blog. Comments of how if you can't afford an override then leave town or you shouldn't own a home or you should be living in section 8 housing or my favorite - your scrapping by is because of the decisions you made in your life. I can think of at least 15 families in this town that someone in the family is fighting a disease, cancer, Lou Gehrigs disease, MS, etc. etc. Don't think these hardships are because of the choices they made. And no the ones with cancer did not smoke or work in a bad environment.   

I happened to read the senior newsletter today and saw something that shocked me - 864 Templeton household were helped by the food pantry in 2012.A total of 750 children between the ages of 0 and 17.  and 508 adults 18 -64.  Okay we have 8013( roughly) people in Templeton - so total Templeton people helped 1258. that's 15% of our town population. 864 households were helped. We have approximately 2900 household in town that's 29% of Templeton households needing help. 

Sooo let's see according to the comments that were made - 1258 people should move out of town. Oh wait this includes 750 children at least 500 of them must be in the school system!!!! 

Maybe these numbers will help people understand that many people here in Templeton are struggling to feed their children. Just some info for you all. No hee hee's on this blog - this is a serious problem in this town too many children going hungry. 

Thanks for reading my opinions and comments! Pauly 

Public Safety in Templeton - Fire/EMS

Public Safety in Templeton – Fire/EMS

Have you ever had to call for an ambulance in an emergency situation? Isn’t that the worst feeling in the world? …waiting for help to arrive?

On August 22, 2013, there will be a Joint Town Meeting (JTM) at 7 pm. The votes taken at this JTM will determine the fate of public safety in the Town of Templeton. One aspect of public safety is the Fire department/EMS.

Shedding some Light...August 6, 2013

Shedding some light…Aug. 6, 2013

Water meeting –

First item of discussion was the capital improvement study of the water system of which the water rate study is a part. There are two copies of this very large document for review at the TMLWP office on Bridge St. This is not the final copy, which may be available in electronic format… the manager will check into it.

August 22, 2013 Joint Town Meeting Warrant Article

Warrant Article for Joint Town Meeting

August 22, 2013

A request for a draft copy of the minutes from the August 5, 2013 school committee meeting resulted in the following information:

August 5, 2013 BOS Meeting...the Movie

-->

BOS Meeting August 5, 2013 …the movie

Part 1 of the August 5, 2013 Templeton BOS Meeting

Part 2 of the August 5, 2013 Templeton BOS Meeting

July 29, 2013 Templeton BOS Meeting…

Welcome back Mr. Bennett! Don’t do that again!

August 5 BOS meeting

August 5, 2013 BOS Meeting

The BOS met last night at the same time as the school committee meeting. Hopefully, there will be an update in the newspaper on the school committee meeting.

FEMA grant for February 2013 Blizzard- the BOS voted the Chair to sign the FEMA documentation for costs related to the February blizzard. This will result in $2,700 coming back to the town. Good news! Thank you to Rich Curtis for processing this paperwork. Thank you to the highway department in keeping the roads clear in bad weather.

Open Meeting Law Complaint filed July 1, 2013 by Isaac Matson -

Lengthy discussion ensued regarding the OML complaint filed by Isaac Matson on July 1, 2013 with the Town Clerk.