Rutland board discusses issues

The Rutland Board of Aldermen is looking back on the major points of disagreement with the mayor during budget negotiations last month. Alderman Joe Tilden asked the board to force a meeting of the Board of Civil Authority to review the layoffs of the two recreation department employees, saying the mayor would not do so. The mayor and Recreation Superintendent denied a request for a hearing by the two employees. City Attorney Andrew Costello said seven of the aldermen need to support such a request in order to force the mayor to hold the meeting. Alderman Kevin Coleman introduced a motion to possibly rectify what he believes are problems in how the budget process is conducted. Coleman introduced new language for a charter change that would have the mayor prepare a summary of projected revenue and an estimated tax rate by Nov. 1st. The proposal was referred to an August 5th meeting on the city's charter.