Providence Special Committee on Ways and Means - Thursday, May 28th, 2026 - 5:30 P.M.

The meeting is called to order by Miguel Sanchez, and the clerk conducts a roll call of the committee members. The chair then recognizes the staff and interns present for the session.

The committee votes to move Item 6 to the beginning of the agenda to address a zoning board appointment. This motion is made by Councilor Peterson and seconded by Councilor Davis.

Mr. Scott discusses his experience as an alternate on the zoning board and his background in education and parks and recreation. Committee members ask questions about his interest in zoning and thank him for his service to the city.

The committee makes a motion and votes unanimously to approve the appointment of Mr. Scott to the zoning board. The chair thanks Mr. Scott for his continued dedication to the city of Providence.

A motion is made and passed to waive the formal reading of the first five items on the agenda. This procedural step allows the committee to move directly to the presentation of exhibits and reports.

The committee votes to officially enter Exhibit 34 into the meeting records before beginning the budget presentation. This exhibit contains the detailed financial documents and ordinances related to the school department budget.

The school department presents an overview of the fiscal year 2027 budget challenges, including declining enrollment and high fixed costs. They highlight progress in student outcomes, such as increased graduation rates and improved test scores in math and literacy.

Officials explain the student-based budgeting model and discuss the impact of declining enrollment on state funding. They note specific trends in middle and high school populations and the challenges of serving newcomer students.

The presentation covers salary increases and contract statuses for various bargaining units, including the Providence Teachers Union. Officials clarify that all positions are included in the compensation and cost classification ordinances.

The committee reviews the revenue sources for the school district, focusing on state aid and the impact of the funding formula. They discuss the decline in high-cost special education categorical funding and the role of SNAP eligibility in revenue calculations.

Discussion centers on the district's reserve account balance and its historical use to cover budget deficits. Officials explain the importance of maintaining a rainy day fund for emergencies and fiscal stability during the transition to local control.

The district outlines projected declines in total salary costs due to significant staff reductions despite cost-of-living increases. They also discuss changes in benefit costs, including medical and retirement contributions.

Officials report a significant increase in transportation contract rates and discuss the costs of out-of-district special education tuition. They explain the different categories of transportation, including yellow bus service, RIPTA passes, and athletic travel.

The committee discusses the fiscal impact of tuition payments to charter schools and the challenges of the current state funding formula. Concerns are raised about the sustainability of charter expansion and its effect on the traditional public school budget.

The district reviews the custodial services contract and planned reductions in capital expenditures, such as Chromebook purchases. They discuss the need for alternative funding sources to maintain technology for students.

The presentation details the reduction of 109 full-time equivalent positions, primarily in teaching roles due to enrollment declines. Officials explain the process for layoff notices and the current status of teacher vacancies in the district.

Committee members express concern over the use of reserves to fill budget gaps and the long-term outlook for enrollment. They discuss the need for strategic decisions regarding transportation, special education, and the district's physical footprint.

The district explains the merging of administrative positions and changes to the multi-lingual learner department to increase efficiency. They discuss the transition from coaching endorsements to full certifications for teachers.

Officials describe the functionality of software platforms like Canvas and iReady in delivering curriculum and tracking student progress. They also discuss the formation of a task force to address the implications of artificial intelligence and data privacy in schools.

The committee asks about the budgeting for substitute teachers and the efficiency of the current procurement process. Discussion includes the benefits of the streamlined RFP process implemented during the state intervention.

The district explains the decision to end the partnership with the Urban Collaborative Accelerated Program (UCAP) and transition students back to district schools. They outline the support services and cohort models being developed for the impacted students.

Officials provide a timeline for the finalization of the budget, including upcoming votes by the school board and approval by the commissioner. They note that adjustments may be made based on final revenue numbers from the state.

The presentation includes data on students experiencing homelessness and the impact of housing insecurity on attendance and academic performance. Officials detail the services provided, including transportation, supplies, and dedicated social workers.

The committee reviews the structure of the finance department and discusses the management of utility expenditures. Questions are raised regarding late fees and the coordination of energy credits with the city.

Discussion turns to the availability of the PCTA facility for summer recreation programs and the need for better communication between departments. Officials also address maintenance concerns at Hope High School and the long-term plan for facility renovations.

The committee votes to continue the remaining agenda items and adjourns the special meeting. The meeting concludes with remarks on the importance of the partnership between the city and the school district.