This evening at 6 p.m., a special early time (usually at 7 p.m.), the Chatham Finance Committee will begin its review of the Schools spending proposal for the fiscal year beginning July 1. The Schools seek to spend $1.1 million more than last year and would force a substantial rise in the property tax. That's a 10% increase over fiscal 2009. Pupil enrollment for the coming year is at the same level as this year.

The Governor has just announced more cuts in local aid to schools, so that will require belt-tightening at all schools, including Chatham's. And who says things won't get worse?

The other departments of the Town, which are under the Board of Selectmen in the Town Manager's direct control are so close to holding the line to FY09 spending in the operating budget, with certain adjustments, that no property tax increase for existing residential and business property owners would be necessary to fund their FY10 operations.

If the Schools held to the fiscal 2009 budget there would be no need for an increase in the property tax for homeowners or businesses at all (except for new construction and improvements) -- unless special projects are approved at the Annual Town Meeting.

This important meeting is open to all. Attend to find out why the Schools are seeking a 10% spending increase in these tough times. Channel 18 will carry the session and the video will be posted on the Town website for later viewing.