A review of the 2018 Warrant for the Annual Town Meeting
shows that several important items will be discussed and debated, including funding
for school and town operations, various capital projects, zoning for marijuana
establishments, changing name of “Selectmen” to “Select board”, pedestrian
safety, and the purchase of property for the planned new fire/police
headquarters. It will be a busy four
nights as Needham’s elected representatives to Town Meeting hear from various
boards who have both proposed and studied the 66 articles that will come before
the Annual and Special Town Meeting on May 7, 9, 14, and 16th at
Needham’s Town Hall.
This is my 12th Town Meeting as Needham’s
superintendent, and I continue to be impressed with the high level of
coordination, discussion, debate, analysis, and management that are evident in
this annual ritual of local town governance.
In particular, the organization and preparation of the Selectmen,
Finance Committee, School Committee, Planning Board and others is impressive
and allows Town Meeting representatives to understanding key issues and ask
questions that clarify or question information so that individuals can make
thoughtful decisions and votes. The
boards are supported by talented staff members and Town leaders, including Town
Manager Kate Fitzpatrick, Assistant Town Managers Dave Davison and Chris
Coleman, Police Chief John Schlittler, Fire Chief Dennis Condon, DPW Director
Rick Merson, and a variety of other Town department heads who work tirelessly
to provide answers and responses that will inform good decision-making.
Keeping everyone in line—and as he is frequently clear
about, “Within the four corners of the article in question”—is Town Moderator
Michael Fee who presides over Town Meeting with firmness, integrity, focus,
balance, and a good sense of humor at the right time. He is unflappable during serious and
sometimes controversial debates; and he is also patient, evenhanded, and fair
to all who seek to share their perspective, ask a question, or offer a comment.
This year School Committee Chair Aaron Pressman will share
with Town Meeting a brief report on the Needham Schools, and he will review the
school department’s budget request for the 2018-19 school year. As in years past, Town Meeting members will
ask clarifying questions about school needs and this year Mr. Pressman will respond
with as much information and data as possible to satisfy the request. And if this year is like the others I have
witnessed, Needham Town Meeting Members will again ask good and hard questions
and then rise to support Needham’s young people with a budget and resources
that will boost and enrich their learning—and, in turn, strengthen the
community.
If you would like to read more about Needham’s Town Meeting: 2018 Needham Town Meeting Information
For information about the FY19 School Budget plan that will
be proposed to Town Meeting: Needham Public Schools FY19 Budget Message to Town Meeting
