July 7, 2006
HEALEY ANNOUNCES LOCAL AID FOR CITIES AND TOWNS
NORTH READING– Lieutenant Governor Kerry Healey today announced local aid will climb to $4.8 billion, a $375 million increase, or 8.5 percent, under the budget that will be signed into law by the Governor.
Cities and towns will receive a $216.6 million increase in Chapter 70 school aid totaling $3.5 billion, an additional 6.6 percent over last year. The lottery distribution will increase by $158.6 million, up 20.8 percent.
“Cities and towns have endured difficult financial times over the last few years and we understand tough choices were made at the local level,” said Healey. “Our shared commitment to fiscal discipline and holding the line on spending is the reason local aid is now at record levels.”
As the Administration’s point person to cities and towns, Healey said communities have had to tighten their belts over the years. Now with a budget surplus, the state is positioned to share revenues with local communities.
“The push to increase local aid and education funding for our communities began in the governor’s office and was carried on by the Republican caucus members whose passionate advocacy helped convince the Legislature that our cities and towns need more financial support,” Minority Leader Brad Jones said. “Today, I’m pleased that our fight has ended successfully back at the governor’s desk.”
North Reading will receive $2.2 million dollars in local aid and $4.9 million in Chapter 70 school aid.
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