Trumbull Finance Board Hearing Could Cover Bonding Tonight

Bonding for school security and athletic fields are could be reviewed tonight by the Board of Finance.

The school district seeks about $800,000 for security measures. Athletic fields and tennis court refurbishing are not included in the 2013-2014 budget, and are estimated at $1.2 million.

The meeting starts at 7 p.m. in Town Hall.

The Trumbull High School football field turf is worn out after 10 years of use and could lead to injuries if played on, said Trumbull High School Athletic Director Michael Herbst.

Bonding for the district's technology plan, "Project Catapult," would be $692,650. It could possibly be grouped with technology needs on the townside. That meeting has not been scheduled.

The bonded funds would be removed from the proposed 2013-2014 education budget. The Town Council makes the final decision on bonding matters.

The school board had asked for a 4.56 percent increase to cover salaries and benefits and a staffing increase. First Selectman Tim Herbst has recommended a 2.74 percent increase to the education budget, requiring cutting at least $1.862 million from the original request.

Also in question is whether $874,000 in a separate account can be counted in the 2013-2014 budget. And the district may switch to self insurance, possibly saving as much as $1.6 million.

Once the bonding issues are decided and firmer numbers reached, the school board can begin to review the budget proposal again, Schools Supt. Ralph Iassogna has said.

The school board meets at 7 p.m. Tuesday in the Long Hill Administration building.