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The Sudbury Finance Committee (FinCom) took additional positions on Annual Town Meeting articles during their April 27 meeting. Three noteworthy votes on high-profile articles stood out as Annual Town Meeting approaches.
Article 13 – Vocational Education Stabilization Fund
According to comments from Co-Chair Mike Joachim, the FinCom received a request to reconsider their position on this article from Select Board Chair Lisa Kouchakdjian. They had previously voted unanimously not to recommend approval of the article. After discussion, a motion to rescind their prior vote failed. For more on the rationale behind their original position, which was not in opposition to vocational education, go here.
Article 18 – Funding for Transportation Programs
Select Board member and Transportation Committee Chair, Dan Carty, presented to the FinCom. His presentation included compelling data on ridership, growth in usage of the Catch Connect program, concentrated usage along the Route 20 corridor, and significant usage of the service at several affordable housing communities throughout town. The FinCom voted to recommend approval of the article to Town Meeting. During discussion it was noted that this program was still being funded by free cash with the hope of one day being worked into the operating budget.
Article 19 – Consultant Services for Liberty Ledge/Sewataro Visioning
This one didn’t require much discussion. Town Manager Andy Sheehan explained the intent behind the article, which has previously been supported by the Planning Board. The FinCom voted to recommend approval of the article to Town Meeting.