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Throughout this campaign, a recurring claim is that the town is using SPS as leverage for an override. This sentiment undermines the fundamental principle of municipal finance: that public safety, infrastructure, schools, recreation, and other essential services are all vital to the well-being of our community.
Effective budget management for SPS involves advocating for students while recognizing the broader financial landscape. Inflationary pressures challenge municipal finances everywhere, with expenditures rising faster than revenue. However, the data shows that our town is deeply invested in our schools. This commitment is evident from our Town Manager and Superintendent to the dedicated volunteers on our boards and committees, as well as our residents.
Consider the facts:
When including benefits, the town’s budget increase totals 22.80%, while SPS’s increase is 25.84%. This data reflects a consistent commitment to funding education, even amid financial constraints.
Budget analysis and approval should be grounded in facts, communication, and collaboration, not in the false notion of a town being unsupportive. Sustainability is key. During the October 2023 override discussions, Select Board members questioned whether the $745,000 request was sufficient, given the use of Circuit-breaker funds to offset the initial $1.3M request. The March 24th Finance Committee Meeting (here) further questioned the sustainability of the override ask.
If elected, I will work collaboratively with the town, recognizing that we are one community with diverse needs. Our town thrives when we work together, not when we create unnecessary division. We cannot approach budget negotiations with the notion that one cost center is holding another hostage.
With 20 years of experience as a CPA, I bring strong financial expertise to the Sudbury School Committee. In my current role as Director of Policy and Procedure Governance, I specialize in financial oversight, policy development, and governance—skills that align directly with the School Committee’s responsibilities. I understand budgets, financial constraints, and how to make informed, strategic decisions that serve the best interests of our students and our town.
Most importantly, we need to work together, not against one another. We must unite with other elected and appointed officials to ensure that all residents’ and town needs are met. Our success depends on unity, transparency, and a shared commitment to the future of our schools and our town as a whole.
Now is the time to reframe how we approach the SPS budget with a one community approach, recognizing that Sudbury has been supportive of our schools. By working proactively, transparently, and collaboratively with the superintendent, town manager, and other cost centers, we can foster productive conversations about sustainable budgeting.
***This article is part of a series to allow voters insight to what I will advocate for as a SPS School Committee member. I have also written articles on after-school care, curriculum, class-size, belonging, and the importance of hybrid meetings. For more information about my campaign, please visit www.Sues4SPS.com.***