At last nights meeting of the Templeton Advisory Committee, discussion concerning the Perpetual Care funds and the monies involved. A member of the committee was instrumental in getting these records, which the Cemetery Commissioners had been trying to get so they could see what the numbers (money) showed so they would know what is what and how much is in each fund. A member of the Cemetery Commission was in attendance and was thankful for the work of the Advisory Committee and for bringing this forward to the attention of the residents of the Town of Templeton. This was accomplished through the efforts of Bev Bartolomeo and should show the residents of the Town that members of the Advisory Committee tries to keep the residents informed on financial matters. Sometimes that involves asking questions that, well, sometimes it seems there are those who wish those questions were not asked.
This information should not be that hard to obtain. That information should flow from Town Hall like water from a fountain. That would be good governance and open, transparent and really for the people. With that in mind, Advisory Committee discussed and agreed to work on a report format for Town Meeting concerning financial matters that the Committee feels should be available to Town Meeting, before the meeting, so people can be informed, if they so choose. Perhaps this year, the selectmen can get the budget process moving earlier, with the audits now completed and "good numbers" available, the process should be able to begin earlier, to the benefit of the residents.
posted by Jeff Bennett
I was glad to help, and thankful that the members of the Advisory Committee backed me in getting this information. Screwed up or not, the Cemetery Commissioners should not have to wait to know what they have in their accounts. These men, that volunteer their time have the right to the information they had requested for at least two years. It does seem, money was used without the Commissioners approval, once in the past. This can not happen again. We are fortunate that people are willing to serve the Town, and they deserve the support that they need, when they ask for it. Bev.
ReplyDeleteIt was very satisfying to see the results of your efforts Bev. It was obvious that these gentleman had been frustrated in their efforts to get the information needed to do their jobs competently. It was obvious that both of these gentleman are fully engaged in trying to do the best they can for their departments. I truly appreciated the interaction, history and knowledge shared with the Committee.
ReplyDeleteIt's true that these numbers should flow like water. They should be readily accessible by the department heads. No department head responsible for overseeing spending should be without the tools they need to plan, budget and manage the departments as they are paid to.
Anyway, just wanted to mention that I was really pleased with the interaction and wanted to commend the gentleman and Beverly Bartalemeo for their effort.
Friday, July 21, 2017
ReplyDeletePosted by Advisory member Jeff Bennett
Quorum of AC committee in possible violation of the oml.
So if they have no regards for the law why should they keep pointing out violations others make?