The Minisink Valley Board of Education unanimously adopted a proposed $102,250,169 million budget for the 2021-22 school year, which maintains all current student programs and services, at its April 22 meeting.
This proposed budget increases spending by $2,253,610 from the current year, and includes a 2.42 percent tax levy increase.
The proposed 2.42 percent increase in the tax levy – total amount of money to be raised through property taxes – is within the New York State tax cap requirement. The proposed budget needs a simple majority to be approved.
“This proposed budget is extremely mindful of taxpayer dollars and recognizes the difficult financial circumstances many may be facing as pandemic challenges continue,” said Superintendent Brian Monahan. “The only increase in this proposed budget, over last year’s approved budget, are contractual obligations and mandated services to students along with budgeted contingency funds for unexpected pandemic-related costs for the next school year.”
Also on the May 18 ballot is Proposition 2, which asks voters to decide on the purchase of 15 school buses in the amount of $1,688,823. This resumes the district’s 10-year replacement bus plan which was put on hold for the 2019-20 and 2020-21 school years. State aid will cover $1,266,617, or 75 percent of the total cost. The net cost to the district, after state aid is applied, is $422,206.
Additionally, residents will elect three members to the Board of Education for a three-year term beginning July 1, 2021 through June 30, 2024; and one member for the unexpired term caused by the removal of a board member. Candidates, in alphabetical order are: Nakia Hickman, Dr. Scott Hines, Anthony Monaco and Melissa Young.
Voters will cast ballots on Tuesday, May 18 from noon to 9 p.m. at two polling locations, depending on their polling district: The Intermediate School Gym A on the district’s Route 6 campus or Otisville Elementary School.
The annual budget newsletter will be mailed to all residents in early May. The district’s budget hearing will be held on Thursday, May 6 at 6 p.m.
Budget information is also available at: 2021-22 School Budget Development