Thursday, September 21, 2000 Older Editions

Financial farewell: FinCom chairman steps down

By Neil Fater

After a decade of helping the town make difficult budgetary decisions, Finance Committee Chairman Don Schroeder has made another decision on his own. He's left the committee.

"It was made after a lot of consideration. It was kind of a tough decision because I enjoyed working with the people," he says. "It's time to step back and take it a little bit easier. There were some health issues I'd like to address."

Schroeder said he made the decision after his younger brother, "a runner in excellent health," died of a massive heart attack while running on a treadmill.

Schroeder decided it was time to spend less time sitting in meetings, and more time taking care of his health.

"It's been a long 10 years. I didn't realize how long it was," he says. "Now, I'm getting back to addressing some of the personal things."

So, instead of finding him at the FinCom meetings on Wednesdays, says Schroeder, "You'll find me at the Y."

Schroeder says he made the decision during the summer, but promised Moderator Jim Doherty he would remain aboard until September.

As town moderator, Doherty is responsible for appointing someone new to replace Schroeder's vacated position on the Finance Committee.

The committee itself voted last Wednesday to have Joanne Marden replace Schroeder as chairperson.

Marden, a 22-year member of the committee, has served as chairwoman for much of her time on the board. The senior member of the FinCom, she frequently outlines the Finance Committee's position at both Town Meeting and other meetings.

"She has a wealth of knowledge, a ton of experience and passed the CPA exam," says Schroeder. "Just the knowledge of the town she has. She's a great asset to the town. There are no worries about the chairman."

Schroeder says that one of the changes in town he'd like to see continue is the increased discussion between the FinCom, selectmen and School Committee.

"That's one of the big things that have come about recently, that's low-key," he says. "There's a lot more done between the boards with communication."