Budget restraints force layoffs of 6 town employees in Saugus

SAUGUS – Town Manager Scott Crabtree said he had to lay off six Department of Public Works employees Tuesday because the town budget could no longer sustain their positions.Crabtree said five full-time workers and one part-time clerk were let go after reclassifying them out of the water and sewer accounts in light of the recent water and sewer audit, which found non-water and sewer employees being paid out of those accounts,?It?s illegal to run a deficit in any of those accounts,” said Crabtree in his weekly report to the Board of Selectmen. “It?s a pretty upsetting and difficult day. This is the reality of the way things were budgeted before and carried out by the past administration.”Crabtree said making the proper changes will have a “substantial impact” on the community.?Those people are needed,” said Crabtree. “We?re very lean in all departments, but it?s illegal to run a deficit. There are very little monies to transfer to be able to sustain those positions.”Crabtree said he spent Tuesday with DPW Director Joe Attubato to prioritize projects in town because money is not available to do “minor repairs.”?We have to live within what we have budgeted,” said Crabtree.In other business, the board voted 4-1 Tuesday to advertise its open liquor license until June 25.The board revoked the license, which used to be owned by Pamela Avedisian, earlier this year for non-use.Selectman Debra Panetta said the board should take its time in handing out the new license.?The last board spent many hours and dollars revoking this license for non-use,” said Panetta. “This would be the first license this board will have the opportunity to give out. We need to make sure we?re doing the right thing for the community.”Selectman Steve Castinetti voted against the measure, pointing to 15 letters of interest currently filed with the selectmen and saying the board should act sooner.?Why don?t we see what we have now?” asked Castinetti.The board also voted to approve licenses for a new nail salon and spa at Village Park Plaza at 333 Main St. and a new Safelite Auto Glass repair at 1069 Broadway.Matt Tempesta can be reached at [email protected].