Belmont is facing serious fiscal constraints, proposals for recurring overrides, as well as significant needs on the town side of the budget. It is shocking to read that the Belmont Select Board would even consider support for allocating limited funds from certified free cash to help settle the union contracts between the Belmont Education Association (BEA) and the School Department.
It is pure fantasy to believe this is a “one-time” allocation of free cash. If approved, look for other unions to seek a similar advantage. I believe this proposal must be defeated as it sets a very dangerous precedent.
Peg Callanan, Sargent Roard
Editor’s Note: The use of one-time funds from free cash would require authorization by Town Meeting.