by Susan MacEachron

At the Board of Finance (BoF) meeting on Jan. 12, chairman Michael Sconyers asked First Selectman Matt Riiska to report on the status of the selectmen’s budget. Riiska reported that the town is on target in most areas of the budget. He noted spending has been over budget on some of the public works equipment, but the overage will be offset by reductions in other areas. Riiska said work is underway on the fiscal year 2021 budget and he will be ready to present it at the Feb. 9 BoF meeting. He noted that deferred but essential projects, such as bridge reconstruction, Maple Avenue road work and a new roof at Botelle School, will likely require a tax increase. Sconyers noted that the town is in good shape with tax collections to date. 

Nina Ritson, representing the Fiber Optics Committee, reported that 169 surveys were returned and an impressive percentage of respondents added comments. She said a slightly higher percentage of the respondents were opposed to the plan than in favor, but there was a clear need for additional information. Ritson read a report from committee chair Bill Brown, which emphasized the need to view the project in the context of the “stagnant” Norfolk tax base. Brown’s report said fiber optics would enhance Norfolk’s appeal as compared to surrounding towns in the competition for new residents. Ritson said the committee determined that approximately 20 percent of Norfolk’s 834 homes are farther than 200 feet from the road, which affects the cost of installation. She closed by stating the committee welcomes feedback from everyone and hopes to be prepared for a town vote in May.

In response to a question from Sconyers, John DeShazo, representing the Board of Education, said they would be ready to present the proposed school budget on Feb. 9. Sconyers said he preferred to schedule the town and the school budget discussions for different meetings and noted there is no rush at this point in the year. 

During public comment, Jenna Brown, saying that she was speaking on behalf of the young families in town, emphasized the importance of town support for a well-funded school. She urged the Board of Finance to view the school as “an asset and not a burden.”