The following statement is of my personal opinion.
It would appear that Saugus enjoys a state of robust financial health. The town has more than $8 million in free cash and stabilization accounts and an extremely beneficial bond rating.
A new school project is under construction and there is considerable development along the Route 1 corridor. Local homes often sell for between $500,000 and more than $1 million. Appointed and elected officials are justified for taking credit for this strong financial condition. Yet 21 public school custodians are due to have their position eliminated by the end of June.
This action is the type usually taken by a town in adverse financial shape: A condition Saugus is not in. We have requested to have this issue placed on the next School Committee agenda. That request was ignored thus denying public discourse on this matter.
As such and again in my opinion, I feel the elimination of these long term and loyal employees is the stuff of anti-union animus, personal agenda and a political agenda. It is in the end disgraceful in nature.
Richard A. Fioravanti, vice president
American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees Local 262
