Canton, Massachusetts · Saved source text

FinCom Minutes 3-18-26 (Approved)

Finance Committee · Record date 2026-03-18 · Record 0e2e6ab5b9a1f8568d

Saved text from 15 source pages. Transcription and OCR may contain errors; verify figures and wording against the original. Retrieved 2026-10-15.

Canton Finance Committee Meeting
                                     Wednesday, March 18th, 2026, 7pm
                                               Virtual Meeting


In Attendance: Emilio Mauro, Kristin Mirliani, Nicholas Corkery, John Leonetti, Helen Mancuso, Evan Patton,
Reuki Schutt, and Cindy Thomas
William Scollins – Finance Director
Absent: Ronald Wilson
CCTV Recording
Recording Secretary: Allison Neff

Chairperson Mauro called the meeting to order at 7:00pm.

CAPITAL PLANNING COMMITTEE FY27 CAPITAL BUDGET RECOMMENDATIONS – ARTICLE 15
Adam Nichols, Capital Planning Committee, Vice Chair

Mr. Nichols reviewed all the Capital Requests for FY27 and the recommendation votes of the Capital Planning
Committee (CPC).

MUNICIPAL REQUESTS:

Board of Health
Health Department SUV Replacement - $35,000 Cash Capital and Vaccine Refrigerator/Freezer Replacement -
$6,000 Cash Capital: The CPC felt both Board of Health requests were well-justified.

MIS
AV/Firewall & Anti-Virus Renewal - $96,000 ($89,000 Cash Capital, $7,000 IT Surplus): This request is for
security upgrades and updates.

4 Server Replacements & Additional Storage - $80,000 Cash Capital and Computer Replacements (70
Estimated) - $89,000 Cash Capital: These server and computer replacements are both common MIS requests
and are important for the Town’s technology infrastructure.

Software Upgrades – Office 365 - $120,300 Cash Capital: The CPC expected to see this request, as more
software moves to subscription models.

Storage Area Network (SAN) Replacement - $180,000 Debt Capital: The Town’s SAN has reached the end of its
useful life and requires replacement.

Library Community Room A/V - $70,000 Cash Capital: The CPC agreed with Town leadership that this project
could be deferred, as the Library Community Room will be used as operating space during the interior
renovations, and the final usage and technology needs of the room are not settled. The CPC did not move to
recommend this request with a vote of 0-4-0.

Fire Department
                                                  Page 1 of 15

2001 E-One Ladder Truck Replacement - $1,810,000 Other Funding: Mr. Nichols noted that the Fire
Department has done a great job maintaining their vehicles, but the truck being replaced has reached the end
of its useful life. Funding for the new truck will be from debt service paid by ambulance receipts.

Feasibility Study - $110,000 Cash Capital: Mr. Nichols explained that this study will determine if Station 1
needs to be expanded and what the long-range plans are. Greg Murphy (CPC member) added that the study
will examine if staffing levels are right and if the fire stations in Town are operating as they need to be. He
noted that, depending on results of the study, there may be funding requests in the future for Fire
Department needs.

Mr. Leonetti asked if the replacement truck is back ordered with delivery expected in several years, as has
been the case with other major vehicle replacements in recent years. Mr. Nichols responded that he believes
there is a 2.5 to 3 year lead time for this vehicle. Mr. Leonetti also asked for confirmation that the money for
this purchase will be allocated now and spent when the truck is finally delivered, which Mr. Scollins confirmed,
adding that the Ambulance Receipts cash flow is synced up with the fund usage and well able to cover the
bond payments for this truck over 10 years, with the bond borrowing beginning in the fiscal year in which the
truck is delivered. Mr. Murphy noted that appropriating the funds now allows the Town to “lock in” the
current price. Ms. Neff (speaking as the CPC secretary) stated the expected delivery of the new truck is June of
2028.

Library
Library Interior Renovation – 2nd Round - $1,410,074 ($1,001,994 Debt Capital, $408,080 Cash Reserves): This
is a large project involving extensive renovation of the 2nd floor, but Mr. Nichols noted that the end is in sight
as this is the last round of requested funding. He went on to explain that now, after the HVAC and roofing
repairs have been completed, the Library is moving to renovate the interiors to mitigate the damage caused
by the previous HVAC and roofing issues, and combining this renovation with a redesign of the facilities to
better serve their clientele. The CPC determined combining the fixes and redesign is a smart approach, and
the Library is confident in their provided numbers and ability to complete this project with the amount
requested at Town Meeting this year. If the request for FY27 is approved, the total Town expenditure on
major repair/renovation projects for the Library since 2023, between the HVAC/roof repairs and the interior
renovation and redesign, will be approximately $8.1 million. Mr. Nichols noted the CPC’s opinion that these
Library projects are proof of the value of the establishment of the Central Maintenance Department to
maintain buildings and make repairs before projects of this magnitude become necessary.

Police
4 Cruiser Replacements - $331,679 ($214,615 Cash Capital & $117,064 redirected from Police Fire-Suppression
System Project): This is a request that the CPC sees every year as the Police Department vehicles have a great
deal of running time and stringent requirements. The funding for these replacements will be split between
cash capital funds and funding redirected from the Police Department’s fire suppression system project, which
was appropriated last year or the year before at Town Meeting. Interim Police Chief Perkins determined that
the replacement of the fire suppression system is not as necessary as originally anticipated. Mr. Nichols also
noted that the Police Department has historically requested the same type of vehicle every year, but this year
have switched the requests to Chevy Tahoes as they are larger and have lower maintenance costs, while
maintaining the needed required rating for police cruisers.
Mr. Patton asked if the fire suppression system mentioned is the same suppression system that was
recommended in the police audit performed by the Town last year. Mr. Nichols and Mr. Scollins confirmed this
was not the case; this is a separate system which the interim Chief felt was not at risk.
                                                   Page 2 of 15

7 Tasers - $41,520 Cash Capital: These tasers will outfit new officers hired to the force.

Central Maintenance
Fire Department Boiler Replacement - $250,000 ($46,019 Cash Capital & $203,981 from Sr. Center HVAC
Project): Mr. Nichols explained that this request came before the CPC last year as well and $100,000 was
approved for repairs, but Central Maintenance has determined that the problems are too significant, with
repairs needed often and Station 1 (on Revere Street) frequently left without heat, requiring that this boiler be
replaced. The $200,000 recommended by the CPC will be in addition to the funds appropriated last year, and a
significant amount of the FY27 funding is being redirected from funds originally allocated for the Senior Center
HVAC project.

DPW Highway Garage Roof Replacement - $197,800 ($97,700 Debt Capital & $100,100 from Police Station
Roof Project): The roof of this building is very old (from 1993) and in poor shape, as it was not included in
recent repairs to the building. There is some contingency built into this funding request in case further
damage is found when repairs begin, but it is not expected.

Air Conditioning System for American Legion Hall - $13,800 Cash Capital: The American Legion Hall is owned
by the Town and the AC system needs replacement due to leakage issues. The new system is expected to
provide more consistent service at lower cost and prevent the leakage issue from impacting the new flooring
which has been installed.

2004 Kubota Tractor Replacement - $41,395 Cash Capital: This tractor is for use at Pequitside Farm where
Central Maintenance stores equipment in the barn. This unit is needed for loading and unloading equipment
and the CPC feels that the department has solid logic for this request to support their excellent operating
model for storing and moving equipment efficiently.

Police Department Headquarters Building Repairs - $89,156 Cash Capital: 2 sides of the Police Headquarters
building have significant exposure issues and have problems with shingles coming off and damage to the
window housings. This project will replace the damaged shingles, update the trim and window sills, and
repaint any trim replacement installed.

2017 CM2 F350 Vehicle Replacement with Hybrid - $45,280 Cash Capital: The current supervisor’s vehicle is in
poor shape and outsizes the needs of the department head. The department is requesting it be replaced with
a new Ford Maverick hybrid that is smaller, easier to maintain, and has a lower operating cost.

Upfitting/Outfitting of 5 Central Maintenance Vehicles - $10,325 Cash Capital: This request is for equipment,
including tool boxes and lighting, for Central Maintenance vehicles and the fitting of a leaf vacuum for a
department vehicle. As all the modifications requested are for Central Maintenance vehicles, they have been
lumped together as one capital request, which is acceptable and supported by the CPC.

New Ride-On Leaf Blower - $12,399 Cash Capital: This is a new blower being added to the fleet to assist
Central Maintenance in their work on parking lots and large green spaces. This new unit will be more efficient,
along with safer and faster than backpack-style units.




                                                   Page 3 of 15

2003 Trailer-Mounted Leaf Vac Replacement - $8,500 Cash Capital: The current leaf vacuum sits on the back of
a truck and is used to pick up leaves after they are blown. The current unit has been out of service for several
years and requires replacement.

Replace CMT1 & CMT2 Landscape & Utility Trailers - $9,290 Cash Capital: The department has done a great
deal of maintenance to keep the current trailers operative, but at this point multiple components are failing
and none of the current units are large enough to handle some of the Department’s equipment. These
replacements will provide more flexibility for moving and usage of equipment on work sites.

HVAC Design for Memorial Hall - $50,000 Cash Capital: The CPC voted not to support this recommendation (0-
4-0), as the Department and Town Leadership have recommended this be included as part of a larger
renovation of Memorial Hall in the future.

Ms. Mancuso asked what happened to the Senior Center HVAC project, which left funds to be reallocated to
the Fire Department boiler replacement. Mr. Nichols explained that the Town received a grant for the Senior
Center HVAC which covered the majority of the funding needs for that project, leaving most of the Town-
allocated funds available. Mr. Mauro asked Mr. Scollins for confirmation that this reallocation was allowed
based on the funds being from cash capital. Mr. Scollins confirmed this, and noted that the useful life of a
project must be comparable or greater than that of the project the funds are being moved from.

Mr. Patton noted that the Library renovations are listed under the Library Department, whereas other
renovations are listed under Central Maintenance, and asked for clarification. Mr. Nichols responded that the
CPC sees all requests as Town money and it is frequent for departments to share responsibility for projects,
particularly when it comes to the Public Works department and the Enterprise Fund departments. Mr. Scollins
explained that the Library project is of enough of a size and scale to be managed by the Building and
Renovation Committee, whereas Central Maintenance is responsible for maintenance projects. Mr. Mauro
asked where that line falls, and Mr. Scollins explained it was fairly intuitive and often based on whether the
project is preventative or a larger repair/restoration. In either case, Central Maintenance is kept informed and
involved.

Public Works
2008 CAT Loader Replacement (Vehicle #70) - $279,000 Debt Capital: This unit has been well-used and
maintained, but has reached the end of its life.

Trimble Unity Hosting Migration Service for Asset Management SW - $20,000 Cash Capital: This system is
basically a reporting tool which currently uses Cityworks. Cityworks is ending in 2027 and the DPW systems
must move to a new service, with these funds covering the migration costs.

Revere & Son Heritage Trust
Storage Space at Museum - $21,478 Cash Capital: The space originally used for Museum storage was found to
be unsuitable or not allowed, and these funds will create a useable storage space in the loft area of the 3 rd
floor of the historic barn.

Vestibule in Rolling Mill - $15,353 Cash Capital: The Town recently agreed to cover half the utility costs for the
historic brick rolling mill building, as the restaurant on the first floor had been paying all the bills despite not
using the 2nd floor, which is Town/Museum space. The creation of a vestibule area will contain some of the

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first floor to help with heating and cooling costs, and will create significant cost savings for the Town going
forward. It is well-designed and will look nice.

WATER ENTERPRISE
Replace Ultrafiltration System at Sullivan Treatment Facility - $2,500,000 ($1,480,510.27 Water Enterprise
Debt Capital, $1,019,489.73 from PFAS Settlement Account): This treatment facility has never been able to
meet its full expected output, leading to the Town needing to purchase significant amounts of water from the
State, and this project will lower that need. Funding is split between Water Enterprise Debt Capital and
settlement money the Town has received from the PFAS settlement. Mr. Scollins explained that PFAS refers to
contaminants that have been found, leading to large companies paying out funds in class-action lawsuits,
which the Town is party to. Just over $1 million has been received to date, and this is an appropriate and
allowable use of these funds to reduce the cost burden on the Town for this project.

Lead Service Line Inventory & Replacement Phase II - $2,250,000 Water Enterprise Debt Capital: This is an
ongoing project to replace lead service lines in the Town. The amount requested is similar to last year’s
request and one more year is expected after FY27.

Satellite Well Replacement for Well 14 at Moran Treatment Facility - $275,000 Water Enterprise Cash Capital:
There are multiple wells located at the Moran Facility, and one has been underperforming or not performing,
leading to increased water costs for the Town. This project will replace that well.

New Dump Truck/Plow/Sander Vehicle #88 - $297,000 Water Enterprise Cash Capital: this is a new vehicle
needed for various Water Department projects.

Replace Truck #4 2009 F250 - $72,000 Water Enterprise Cash Capital: The current vehicle is at the end of its
useable life and requires replacement.

Mr. Mauro explained to the Finance Committee that when it comes to capital budgeting the municipal and
school requests generally come out of the same General Fund sources and are evenly split, but Enterprise
Departments each have their own funding sources.

SEWER ENTERPRISE
Replacement of Flush Truck Vehicle #71 (Split with Stormwater) - $347,500 Sewer Enterprise Debt Capital: This
request is for half the cost of the needed vehicle as it is being split with Storm Water Enterprise. The current
vehicle is 18 years old and the body has been replaced 3 times; the department is unable to maintain it any
longer.

Replace Truck #8 – Ford F350 - $102,000 Sewer Enterprise Cash Capital: The current truck has reached the end
of its usable life.

Water Meter Replacement Program – Year 1 of 3 - $410,000 Sewer Enterprise Cash Capital: This is the start of
a project to determine what is needed for new smart meters to be installed and to identify problems needing
repair before they become very costly to handle. The request next year will fall under the Water Enterprise,
and both years 2 & 3 will be more expensive due to the costs of replacing the actual meters.


STORM WATER ENTERPRISE
                                                   Page 5 of 15

Replacement of Flush Truck Vehicle #71 (Split with Sewer) - $347,500 Storm Water Enterprise Debt Capital:
This is the other half of the first request under Sewer Enterprise, which is voted on separately as the money is
coming from a different source.

2004 Sterling L8500 Swap Loader/Dump Sander Replacement – Vehicle #21 - $437,000 Storm Water
Enterprise Debt Capital: This is the last remaining Sterling vehicle owned by the Town. The Department kept
up excellent maintenance and ensured these vehicles lasted as long as possible, but it is having significant
issues and, as the Sterling Company went out of business many years ago, new parts cannot be ordered.

First Parish Road Narrowing/Pavement Removal/Rain Garden - $100,000 Storm Water Enterprise Cash Capital:
This project will help with the high level of water run-off in that area. The funds will allow the Department to
complete this well-planned project with native plantings that will allow for more water absorption.

SCHOOL CASH CAPITAL REQUESTS
Mr. Nichols noted the changes the CPC made to improve efficiency in this year’s cycle and thanked the School
Department representatives for their feedback and excellent cooperation and efforts.

Building Repairs
Mini Splits - $16,000: These splits will provide better heating and cooling for multiple school buildings.

VFD Replacements - $15,000: These Variable Frequency Drive units are at Canton High School (CHS) and the
current units have reached the end of their life.

Air Conditioners - $7,300: These AC units are for students with special accommodations.

Luce Replacement Generator - $45,000: The current emergency generator is from the 1970s and has been
extensively repaired, but now requires a replacement to maintain operation.

Mr. Leonetti noted that the CPC votes on Municipal items were all 4-0-0 or 0-4-0, whereas the CPC votes on
School Department requests are mostly 4-0-1 (with one 3-1-1), and asked for an explanation. Mr. Nichols
explained that when the CPC voted on the Municipal requests only 4 members were present, and while voting
on the School Department requests one of the 5 Committee members chose to abstain from most votes and
has since left the Committee.

Grounds
Landscaping/Beautification - $20,000: Mr. Nichols explained that the CPC was very firm on pushing for
departments to provide quotes for all requests this year, but no quote was available for this project involving
CHS and the Rodman building. There have been similar projects in previous years across multiple school
buildings, and the School Department’s request was based on those costs. The CPC recommended the funding
with a vote of 3-1-1, with the expectation that the $20,000 is a cap, so, rather than a specific scope of work
being planned, the School Department will do as much of the needed work as possible up to $20,000 worth.
The CPC member who voted against the recommendation was uncomfortable with the lack of quote and
undefined project scope.




                                                   Page 6 of 15

Mr. Leonetti asked why the CPC members dropped from 5 to 4. Ms. Neff stated that the Committee member
who left preferred that discussion be taken offline for privacy. Mr. Mauro noted that the CPC has 7 seats, so 4
is the sufficient quorum for votes to be taken.

Information Technology
Chromebook Replacement Cycle - $175,000: This is a cyclical request which the CPC sees every year and is
well-established and justified.

iPad Replacement - $20,000: Similar to the Chromebook Replacement Cycle, this is a cyclical request for
replacing the devices for younger students.

CHS Projector Replacement - $18,000: The projectors being requested here are “short-throw”, meaning they
are attached to the ceiling and project onto a screen or a wall. These units are replacing those that are at the
end of their life.

Network Zone Directory SSID Configuration - $35,000: The CPC originally voted not to recommend this project
based on a lack of quote, though the justification was good. The School Department was able to provide a
quote before the final CPC meeting and it was recommended on re-vote at 4-0-1.

Staff Laptop Replacement - $50,000: This is a cyclical request for replacing staff computer units at the end of
their useful life.

Access Control Conformity - $76,000: This project involves the hardware managing the door security systems
and access badges. The system requires upgrades based on its age and to meet the requirements of the new
Galvin Middle School (GMS) building.

Staff Desktop Replacement - $65,000: Similarly to the Staff Laptop Replacement request, this is a cyclical
request for replacing staff and control computer units at the end of their useful life.

Touchviews - $16,000: These are another type of display/projection system used in the Schools and these new
units will be added to the Rodman, JFK, and GMS buildings.

Mr. Patton noted that quantities of replacement computers, projectors, etc. were not listed, and asked if the
CPC has an idea of how many units will be replaced or added. Mr. Nichols explained that the number of
expected units is included on the Form Bs received from the Departments, and is discussed in the CPC
interviews, but are not specified in the CPC motions as including a specific number would limit the
Town/Schools to buying that exact number. Due to price fluctuations, fewer or more units than originally
estimated may be able to be purchased once funds become available in FY27, and flexibility is incorporated by
not including a specific number. Mr. Mauro explained that Form A refers to the 5-year long-range planning
document, while Form B is the individual project form that each department fills out for each individual
project/request and supplies it to the CPC with accompanying quotes and documentation. Mr. Patton
explained his question, saying that, without numbers listed, voters may be concerned about departments
buying only a few overly-expensive items, to which Mr. Nichols assured the Finance Committee that the CPC
studies each request and the expected purchase unit numbers carefully.

Safety & Security

                                                   Page 7 of 15

District Radio Repeater Replacements - $25,000: This project will fund the replacement of radio repeaters for
the district, rather than the radios themselves. They have been identified as a critical need.

JFK Fire Alarm Device Replacements - $20,000: Devices that interact with the fire alarm system, like smoke
detectors, pull station, and others, are at the end of their useful life and require replacement.

Luce Fire Alarm Panel and Device Replacements - $30,000: Mr. Lynch of the School Department explained that
this was originally a $70,000 request as it included replacement of the devices, panel, and sprinkler heads in
the Luce building. However, in August, an annual review of all building sprinklers was conducted and the
sprinkler heads at the Luce were identified as having been part of a recall approximately 25 years ago, but
were never replaced. Originally planned to be part of this replacement request, the Fire Chief directed the
Schools to replace the heads sooner, so they were replaced last winter during the school break and this
request was reduced to only cover the panel and device replacements.

Program Improvement
Performing Arts Elementary Curriculum - $5,496: This project involves updating the early learning instruments
and improving instructional quality.

Performing Arts CHS Curriculum - $5,915: This request was discussed in-depth by the CPC. Like-items may be
bundled into a single capital request, but the items listed in this request (mirrors, ballet barres, and
replacement guitars) did not seem similar enough. After lengthy discussion, and input from the School
representatives and Finance Director, the CPC was comfortable moving forward with the request as all the
items fall under a single curriculum.

Classroom Instruments/Borrowed Instruments - $10,049: This is an annual request, which the CPC strongly
supports.

Video Production Lab Replacement - Year 1 - $19,000: This is year 1 of a 2-year replacement project for video
lab technology, as the current equipment from 2018 is not able to run the most up-to-date software.

Elementary Science Curriculum Implementation - $176,945: This funding is for the 2nd batch (units 3 & 4) of
units for new Science equipment and curriculum from the State whose first round has proven very successful.
There was no quote provided by the State for the upcoming units, so Mr. Lynch based this request on what
was spent on units 1 and 2. The CPC recommended the project based on the previous units’ success and desire
for the Schools to be able to move forward with this project.

GMS Visual Arts Lab - Year 2 - $12,000: New tablets and a storage cart are needed for this 2nd and final phase
of modernizing the lab. This will help the student make the transition to this curriculum at the High School
level.

Ms. Thomas asked what “borrowed instruments” referred to, and Mr. Lynch explained the borrowed
instrument program is provided for students of low income and those with very large musical instruments that
aren’t easily transported to and from school. The Schools have a full set of instruments for use throughout the
year for students in those categories, or for students who have a damaged instrument and are awaiting
repair/replacement.

Furniture and Fixtures
                                                  Page 8 of 15

CHS Library Furniture Updates - $85,000: The library at the High School is heavily used and the current
furniture is outdated and very heavy, requiring custodial staff to move it. New furniture will allow for a more
flexible set-up for better learning options and community events.

Luce Outdoor Basketball Hoops - $9,000: This project would replace the posts, concrete, boards, and hoops of
the outdoor basketball hoops at the Luce School.

Hansen Gym Hoop Replacement - $41,295: This project would replace the interior basketball hoops that hang
from the ceiling/walls of the Hansen School.

Luce and Hansen Mowers - $16,500: The Canton Public Schools maintain the green spaces that do not fall
under the Parks & Recreation Department care of the fields. New mowers are needed and 2 will be purchased.

Carpet Cleaning Machines for Hansen and JFK - $9,500: Replacements are needed for old/broken units at the
Hansen and JFK schools.

Extraordinary Maintenance/Vehicle Replacement
School Bus Replacement - $68,000: One of the current school buses needs a replacement for safety reasons
and excessive maintenance costs.

Passenger Vans - $108,000: The CPC originally voted not to recommend this project based on a lack of quote,
but it was re-voted once a quote was obtained and shared, and has full CPC support. 2 passenger vans would
be purchased with these funds, which would allow the School Department to significantly cut back on their
use of 3rd party transportation services. No CDL would be required for driving these, and they will be available
for school use beyond daily transportation to and from school for students.

Ms. Neff noted that the request for the School Bus Replacement is for a used bus. Mr. Lynch clarified that the
students who need van transport are often those with special needs or who are currently unhoused, and the
request for a new school bus (approximately $126,000) was reduced to a request for a used bus as the need
for the vans outweighed the need for a new bus. Mr. Nichols added that it was also shown to the CPC that
“broken-in” busses of this model are known for being reliable and having fewer maintenance issues.

SCHOOL DEBT CAPITAL REQUESTS
Luce Rooftop Replacement Design - $762,000: This project is the initial planning phase for the replacement of
the roof of the Luce School, rather than funding for the actual roof replacement. The School has been invited
to be part of the MSBA program in FY27 and the CPC anticipates additional funding requests in FY28 and
beyond.

CHS Light Controls - $300,000: The current lighting control system at the high school is beyond its useful life
and needs replacement, along with fixture replacements.

Mr. Leonetti asked if the Finance Committee would be voting on these projects at this meeting and whether
voting would be in the groups presented by the CPC representative. Chairperson Mauro answered that the
motions will be grouped by municipal vs. school vs. enterprise fund, and then by funding source. Mr. Scollins
noted that there are 21 motions associated with this article, and voting on these would likely cause this
meeting to run significantly over time. He suggested they be added to the next Finance Committee meeting.
Mr. Leonetti stated he would like an explanation regarding the CPC abstention votes before making his votes
                                                   Page 9 of 15

on the matter, and Ms. Neff offered to send the information to the Finance Committee privately after the
meeting. Chairperson Mauro and Mr. Scollins stated their hopes to include the Capital Request Article voting
in the March 25th meeting agenda.

Mr. Leonetti asked for context on the year to year spending on capital requests, also asking if a year over year
comparison was looked at or provided. Mr. Nichols stated that the CPC does not look at a comparison for each
item, but closely reviews the Form A for each department each year and looks at prior years’ votes and Town
Meeting warrants when projects come up again or are related to previous projects. A large amount of
information and documentation is provided to the CPC for each project, and the Committee diligently
questions and interviews department heads to get detailed answers. He stated his willingness to modify and
improve the CPC presentation based on Finance Committee recommendations. Mr. Leonetti complimented
Mr. Nichols’s presentation and the CPC’s handling of the large magnitude of work asked of them.

Mr. Mauro clarified that the CPC does not spend the capital monies itself, but rather reviews each request
very carefully and addresses all angles to act as an advisory board. As Finance Committee liaison to the CPC he
attended all their meetings and saw how carefully all projects were reviewed, and fully supports the CPC
recommendations made at this meeting.

Chairperson Mauro thanked Mr. Nichols for attending and presenting to the Finance Committee and noted
the Committee’s hope to vote on these motions on March 25th, where he encouraged a CPC member to
attend, if possible, to answer any questions. He also acknowledged Ms. Neff as the CPC Recording Secretary.

FY27 SCHOOL OPERATING BUDGET RECOMMENDATION –
Superintendent Derek Folan and Asst. Superintendent of Finance & Operations Brian Lynch
Mr. Folan introduced the representatives attending the meeting from the School Committee and Canton
Public Schools (CPS) administration. Joining him and Mr. Lynch were Assistant Superintendent Sarah Shaw,
School Committee Vice Chair Sonja Grauds, and School Committee Clerk Kristian Merenda. Both School
Committee members in attendance also sit on the School Committee’s Budget and Finance Sub-Committee.
Ms. Grauds greeted the Finance Committee and stated that she was happy to provide information and context
to them as needed. Ms. Merenda stated that her goal is to have a transparent conversation and look at the
year-over-year changes, improving the process as it goes into the future.

Mr. Folan began by informing the Finance Committee that the Canton Public Schools is facing challenges with
meeting the budget, as is the case with all districts. He read a letter he had written, which was shared with the
entire CPS community, to try and encapsulate the current status. The letter stated that the budget target for
FY27 reflects a 5% increase over last year ($62.1 million). While the 5% increase is appreciated, the district is
struggling with a significant deficit due to state aid shortfalls, increased student needs, and rising costs. While
enrollment in the district has remained fairly consistent for the last decade, the high-needs population has
grown significantly over the past 5 years, with growth of approximately 20% seen in just the past 3 years.
Annual offsets from revolving accounts and tuition will help to close the gap, bringing the $3 million deficit
down to $800,000. The CPS made significant cuts last year as part of a larger restructuring to cover the deficit;
this year they have reviewed all aspects of the budget carefully to try and meet the target goals without
cutting staff. The CPS is very proud of the special needs services they provide to the community, and it has a
commitment to continue providing excellent service.

Mr. Lynch reviewed a summary of the projected deficit. The FY27 Preliminary Budget voted by the School
Committee totaled $66,526,095. The CPS performed a budget analysis to identify expenses that could be
                                                   Page 10 of 15

trimmed or cut, lowering the projected budget by $1,316,645 to a total of $65,209,450, leaving a deficit of
$3,036,477 between that total and the Finance Committee target of $62,172,973. Offsets will cover an
additional $2,233,200, leaving a final deficit of $803,277. The CPS plan to mitigate this deficit through the
reduction of digital subscriptions (which are less utilized since the COVID pandemic years), which is expected
to save $101,000, lowered transportation costs from moving more transportation needs in-house by
purchasing two passenger vans (part of the CPS capital requests), which is expected to save $302,277, and
making shifts in staffing through reductions or retirements, which will lower costs by an expected $400,000.
These reductions total $803,277, allowing the CPS budget to meet the target provided by the Finance
Committee, though they are only proposed, and not yet implemented, at this time, leaving the current FY27
total at $65,209,450.

Mr. Folan stated that the CPS goal, when facing challenges in balancing the budget and requiring access to
reserve funds, is to always maintain level service, though this is not always possible. He noted that no new
staff positions will be added in FY27. He went on to share the drivers of downward pressure with the Finance
Committee to offer context.
He explained the overall enrollment trends of the District. CPS enrollment has been very steady, averaging
approximately 3,100-3,300 students over the past 10 years. While the number of students has not changed
dramatically, the demographics have changed significantly. Regarding students with special education needs
served in the district (including low-income and high needs population, homeless students who were Canton
residents/students and have become unhoused, and multilingual learners), an increasing number over the
past couple of years have required higher levels of service than the CPS can provide, and they are served in
out-of-district placements. Mr. Folan noted that the CPS treasures every student and wants the best care and
education for them, so the District does everything possible to create the least restrictive environment
possible; however, some higher-level needs students require these services provided outside of the district to
ensure a fair and level education for these students. The CPS must balance the financial impact of this extra
service with showing care and respect, and making sure they have an equitable education.
Special Education (SPED) enrollment is up by 68% since a low point in 2018. These SPED services include
speech, language, occupational therapy, behavioral support, SPED teachers and support staff, specialized
programming, specialized equipment, and supplies. Instructional support staffing needs increase as the
numbers of SPED students grows.
Tuition to out-of-district schools also increased significantly since 2018. Between 2022 and 2024 the District
began to see much higher rates of out-of-district school costs. These expenses are not based on the number of
students, and the CPS has no control over these costs, though they fall on the Town. The CPS has determined
that they need to start bringing out-of-district transportation in-house to help regulate costs and avoid costly
outsourcing. Some specialized transport is provided for in-town students as well, such as those with some
IEPs, pre-K students, etc.
The low-income/high-needs populations have been consistent since 2021, when the socioeconomic baseline
was raised. This baseline is a key metric for cost-drivers in the District, but those who fall under this category
are likely the students who benefit the most from being part of the CPS.
The rapidly increasing enrollment seen from multi-lingual learners requires staff levels to keep pace. The CPS
is having a great deal of success with students becoming fluent very quickly; these students are often high-
achieving students but require high-level staffing to get there.
Mandated transportation costs for specialized populations is another major cost factor, and overall
transportation costs have increased dramatically in and out of the district. Yellow bus transportation only
accounts for 31% of transportation costs. The CPS works with First Student, and costs have been fairly steady,
with relatively small increases. A significant increase is expected, however, in homeless student transportation

                                                  Page 11 of 15

needs and transportation needs for Pre-K students whose enrollment has increased, and whose transportation
is considered part of the SPED program.
Rising mandated costs are also an issue, with expenses increasing for general supplies, overall staffing, and
professional development. The District has kept these services level and makes every attempt to hire
thoughtfully with regard being given to budget constraints.
Mr. Folan reviewed the state averages and the demographics of other local districts to draw comparisons for
the Finance Committee. Canton is in line with the State average for per-pupil expenditure, including in-district
and out-of-district costs, but is at the top of expenditures for the Hockamock League.
Mr. Folan noted that he is proud and thankful to all the CPS staff who worked to hit the Finance Committee
budget target, particularly complimenting Mr. Lynch for doing a great job, including making sure the
projections are strong and everything is accounted for.

Mr. Mauro noted that many aspects of the CPS services are legally mandated and complimented the efforts of
the District and School Committee to find ways to fit everything into the budget target and find solutions.
He went on to note that it is important for the Finance Committee and the public to continue to monitor the
CPS efforts to maintain level services or expand services, particularly given the difficult revenue forecasts,
increased costs, and lowered state aid for mandated costs. Mr. Mauro went on to state that Mr. Folan made it
clear that many towns are worse-off than Canton, and that is a credit to the Canton Public Schools and their
financial prudence.
Ms. Thomas stated that she is the Finance Committee liaison to the CPS, and, while she did not have the
opportunity to meet with them before this presentation, she has kept a careful eye on the CPS financial
situation. Over the past couple of years there have been some leadership transitions in the District, but the
CPS is now in a very good place and it has good systems for monitoring spending and future planning. Given
that the CPS is such a large part of the Town’s budget, this is very important. As a former School Committee
member and current Finance Committee member, Ms. Thomas feels very comfortable and confident in the
current leadership and the steps the CPS is taking to be good stewards of our tax dollars and provide the best
for their students.
Mr. Patton asked if the anticipated savings from moving to in-house transportation takes into account the
need to hire drivers for the vans. The School representatives answered affirmatively. Mr. Mauro noted that, if
the vans will be available in FY27, cost savings may be seen right away, with Mr. Lynch confirming that there is
a fairly short lead time to delivery once the vans are outfitted with the required equipment. He noted that, if
the capital request for the vans is recommended, he will begin reaching out right away to get the process
started and hopefully receive the vans this July. Along with the costs for hiring drivers, these projections
include van maintenance costs as well.
Mr. Leonetti asked is there were any insurance issue or liability increases with the in-house transportation
program growing. Mr. Lynch explained that the CPS already transports some students and their existing
insurance covers the students regardless of the vehicle. The risk of liability seen is that whenever a service is
brought in-house, the CPS is responsible and liable for everything. The CPS intends to take this very seriously,
and will make sure all the drivers are experienced and very competent, and he does not believe there will be
any impact to the District’s insurance costs, but plans to have a conversation with the current insurance
broker to check.

Chairperson Mauro stated that the CPS budget will be part of Article 48, and the Finance Committee will vote
on it at another time.

ARTICLE 19 – APPROPRIATION TO INCREASE SPECIAL EDUCATION RESERVE ACCOUNT
Superintendent Derek Folan and Asst. Superintendent of Finance & Operations Brian Lynch
                                                  Page 12 of 15

Mr. Folan introduced this as a very important article, noting that it was developed as a key part of the
priorities for the use of Free Cash in Canton. The CPS cannot always predict what SPED services will be needed,
therefore it is good to have a reserve for this. One student’s cost, including tuition and transportation, can be
over $100,000. This reserve account has saved the district in the past from having to layoff significant numbers
of staff. Mr. Lynch agreed, noting how grateful the District is to have this fund. As it is a reserve, it is treated as
emergency funding for unknown and unforeseen needs and issues. This allows the Town to not take funding
away from general education services when mandated SPED services need an increase in funding.
Ms. Mirliani stated that she understands why this fund exists and how it is supposed to be used, but noted
that almost all the monies in the fund seem to be used every year. Mr. Folan and Mr. Lynch agreed that this
has been the case for at least three years and possibly longer. Ms. Mirliani asserted that this means the fund is
basically being used as part of the budget, leaving her unsure if enough funds are allocated to it, and unsure
that the account is acting as it is designed to. She suggested that if it is not serving the function as named (as a
reserve account), then rolling it into the budget or titling the account differently may be worth considering.
Mr. Folan agreed, stating that he had taken part in a similar discussion recently which determined that this
reserve account acts more as a stabilization account. He noted that the State is in the same position and the
funding gap is growing. He had no immediate solution to offer, as policy does not allow the money to be
folded into the budget, but agreed that a renaming and redescribing of the account could be considered, as
the title is outdated for the current usage. He assured the Finance Committee that the funds are used well and
are much appreciated, and Ms. Mirliani assured him there were no qualms regarding the usage, only concerns
about truthfulness and transparency for Town Meeting attendees.
Mr. Lynch noted that an increase to the fund would be very welcome, as sudden costs are frequently incurred
which require the use of this account. They are working internally to have better cohesion between the
Budget Departments and the Student Services Department to get as much notice as possible for upcoming
changes in order to make adjustments. He stated that this fund makes the difference between what the CPS
plans for and what cannot be known ahead of time. Ms. Schutt noted that she had similar comments to Ms.
Mirliani last year, and if the funds being put in are being taken back out right away every year, then perhaps it
should be relabeled. Ms. Mirliani added that there are always unanticipated costs and, over the past several
years, costs have always been over $1 million and never less than that. Mr. Scollins informed the Committee
that once this account is approved by a simple majority at Town Meeting the schools can then access the
monies with a simple vote of the Select Board and School Committee, though he noted that this may change if
the categorization of the account changes, so a name change would not be a problem, but he does not
recommend changing the type of account.
Regarding whether these funds should be part of the operating budget if they are used every year, Ms.
Thomas stated that they then become part of the base. While this fund may be tapped regularly, she stated
that maintaining these as separate funds makes sense under the current structure for handling revenues. She
also pointed out that this discussion has taken place before and a decision was intentionally made to not
change this account. Mr. Mauro agreed with Ms. Thomas, adding that it is important to make sure not to
disturb the school vs. municipal proportional operating budget balances. Mr. Patton noted another budget
that faces similar issues, as it is also a function of emergency situations: snow and ice removal. He suggested
that, if the trend of SPED cost increases continues, the Finance Committee may need to consider rolling these
funds into the budget, even if it upsets the balance. Ms. Thomas acknowledged the comparison and
similarities.
Ms. Mirliani stated that changing the name of the account is not merely about semantics, but about
messaging. How it is described to Town Meeting matters; if it is presented as funding only available “if
needed”, but is definitely known to be needed ahead of time, then it is not acting as an emergency account.


                                                    Page 13 of 15

Mr. Patton made a motion to recommend to Town Meeting the appropriation to increase the Special
Education Reserve Account as detailed in Article 19 of the Warrant. (That the sum of One Million Dollars
($1,000,000) be appropriated to the Special Education Reserve Account (#250) and to meet this appropriation,
One Million Dollars ($1,000,000) be transferred from Free Cash (Undesignated Fund Balance) in the Treasury of
the Town). Ms. Thomas seconded the motion.
Discussion: There was no further discussion.
The motion passed with a vote of 8-0-0.

The Committee agreed that the draft discussion is sufficient, but, based on Ms. Mirliani’s point, a suggestion
was made to change the wording of “offset unexpected costs” to “offset over-budget costs”. Mr. Leonetti
stated that he would like to continue the consideration of these wording changes going forward, as he agrees
with Ms. Mirliani that it is more than semantics. He suggested that the issue could be raised and reconsidered
at the beginning of the next budget season. Ms. Schutt suggested that the School Department reconsider how
this account is presented next year, noting that the motion was approved because all the Finance Committee
members support the idea of these funds being available, but the wording could cause problems going
forward. Mr. Folan responded that he appreciated the feedback and likely agreed with it, noting that the CPS
is grateful for the reserve fund and welcomes the opportunity to discuss rewording how it is presented in
cooperation with the Finance Committee. Mr. Lynch agreed, noting he would be happy to engage on this and
meet with anyone interested in helping decide on the rewording.
Mr. Mauro suggested changing the language of the motion discussion from “offset unexpected costs” in the
draft discussion to “offset costs in excess of the operating budget”, or something to that effect, to reflect its
expected use. Ms. Mirliani agreed and offered to think it over and reword the discussion, and Mr. Leonetti
offered his assistance with that, noting his concern is not regarding the amount of funding or the year over
year usage, but rather the trend lines associated with the issue. Ms. Schutt noted the issue of adding these
funds to the base budget throwing off the School/Municipal balance, and suggested that Mr. Lynch and a
Finance Committee sub-committee work to find a way to incorporate these funds into recurring funding
without throwing off the balance. She stated that it is more than just reworking the language; rather, it is a
budget problem. Mr. Mauro agreed that this topic does touch upon bigger budget issues as the Finance
Committee comes up against budget ceilings, so strategies will be needed to resolve these budget and funding
issues going forward.

Chairperson Mauro thanked the entire School Department, the School Committee, and specifically those who
attended this meeting and walked the Finance Committee through this large and complicated budget. He also
thanked them for making the Canton Public Schools as great as they can be. The representatives for the
District and School Committee thanked the Finance Committee and noted their similar discussions on these
topics, along with their relief that everyone is thinking in the same direction.

FY27 MUNICIPAL OPERATING BUDGET RECOMMENDATION
Town Administrator Charles Doody and Finance Director Randy Scollins
This agenda item was postponed to the Finance Committee meeting on Monday March 23rd.

ARTICLE 5 – COLLECTIVE BARGAINING AGREEMENTS UNDER THE SELECT BOARD
ARTICLE 22 – SPECIAL ACT REQUEST AUTHORIZING MUNICIPAL CHARGE LIENS ARTICLE 42 –
ACCEPT MGL CH. 40 SEC. 53 F1/2
Town Administrator Charles Doody and Finance Director Randy Scollins
This agenda item was postponed to the Finance Committee meeting on Monday, March 23 rd.
                                                  Page 14 of 15

NEXT MEETINGS
Chairperson Mauro activated the scheduled “if needed” meeting on Monday, March 23 rd in order to address
the postponed agenda items, and added the voting for the 21 Capital Planning motions to that meeting’s
agenda.

VOTE MINUTES
Voting on minutes was deferred to the next meeting.

ADJOURNMENT
Ms. Schutt moved to adjourn the meeting at 9:48pm. Mr. Corkery seconded the motion.
Discussion: There was no further discussion.
The motion passed with a vote of 8-0-0.

Minutes reviewed by: Reuki Schutt

Respectfully submitted,

Emilio E. Mauro, Jr.
Chair, Canton Finance Committee

REFERENCED DOCUMENTS:
FINCOM March 18th, 2026, Agenda
FY 27 Capital Planning Committee Votes
FY27 Proposed School Budget




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