Milton families may see higher costs for school transportation and facility use as town officials reconcile a massive $1.5 million deficit in the snow and ice budget. During Wednesday’s meeting, Town Administrator Nicholas Milano reported that while the town has pathways to address the shortfall, the deficit poses a significant challenge to the town’s free cash reserves. Elaine Craig, representing the school finance subcommittee, noted that rising fuel costs have prompted a recommendation to increase school bus fees by $40 and raise building use fees by 10%.

The committee also weighed how to distribute $500,000 in available free cash, debating whether to bolster school stabilization funds or direct the money toward special education accounts where the Select Board maintains more oversight. Town officials noted that Milton is currently $350,000 ahead of budget projections due to savings in insurance and technical costs at Blue Hills Tech. Chair Jay noted that the Select Board is considering using $250,000 of those savings to fund a police IT specialist tasked with managing body camera data. Regarding the school budget, Craig informed the committee that the School Committee will soon present a detailed 35-slide financial plan, noting They have a 35-slide presentation and many questions to address.

A contentious proposal to redefine demolition for historic buildings was sent back for further study after members raised concerns about overregulation of private property. Stephen O’Donnell, Chair of the Historic Commission, argued for Article 163, which would trigger a review process for structures over 75 years old even if only a portion of the building is being altered. The objective is to protect the historic character of houses and neighborhoods, O’Donnell said, citing a local home designed by William Ralph Emerson that was nearly stripped of its architectural identity during a renovation. However, the committee remained skeptical of the 45-day review period such a change would mandate. Ron Sia cautioned that any change would get referred and trigger a 45-day review, potentially stalling minor projects. E. Craig criticized the language as too nebulous, while Nick voiced direct opposition to the measure. I'm against creating more subjective information, Nick stated. Lorraine also expressed uncertainty regarding the criteria used to judge a home's significance, asking, how much can you put back? if a home is deemed historical. Motion Made by Nick to refer Article 163 back to the committee for additional refinement. Motion Passed (7-0-2).

Sustainability efforts also dominated the agenda as the committee evaluated five articles related to solar energy installations at the Library, Town Hall, and Animal Shelter. Brian Maguire presented a financial analysis suggesting that while leasing solar panels is the easier path, town ownership would be far more lucrative. I'm nervous that leasing is an easy way out but not the most economical, Maguire said, noting that ownership could net the town $810,000 over 20 years compared to $350,000 under a lease. Nicholas Milano added that while the Animal Shelter and Fire Headquarters are solar-ready, the Library’s 15-year-old roof remains a variable. Motion Made by B. Maguire to recommend approval of Articles 38, 39, 40, 41, and 42. Motion Passed (8-0-1).

The committee further endorsed a $1 million allocation to move the Atherton Fire Station project into its next phase. The funding will cover architectural, engineering, and project management services. Larry noted that the Fire Chief had addressed all outstanding concerns regarding the facility’s needs, stating, it seems to me we're ready for a vote. Motion Made by Larry to recommend approval of the article for the Atherton Fire Station study. Motion Passed (9-0-0).