READING â Budget fantasy took precedent over town realities as department heads laid out their Christmas wish list for FY22 Tuesday night. The Reading Select Board heard presentations on facilities, public services, public safety, and capital/debt all coming with a mandate from Town Manager Bob LeLacheur to âcreate a budget as if money was no object.â
Last week the board heard presentations from the library, administrative services, finance, public works, and enterprise funds. Itâs all part of the process that will lead to the FY22 budget for Reading.
Like previous budget discussions, Tuesdayâs virtual meeting was filled with big numbers and colorful charts. On RCTV the numbers were often hard to read but in many ways it didnât matter. At some point reality will overtake fantasy and the numbers will change. For example, collective bargaining with the townâs eight unions is ongoing and thatâs just one of many variables. The biggest variable remains Covid-19. Even though FY22 starts July 1, at a point when we all hope to be vaccinated, much still remains up in the air.