Minisink Valley Board of Education unanimously adopts proposed $99,996,558 million budget for 2020-21 school year

school budget clip artThe Minisink Valley Board of Education unanimously adopted a $99,996,558 million budget for the 2020-21 school year, which maintains all current student programs and services, at its May 20 meeting.

This budget increases spending by $4,681,570 from the current year, and includes a 4.81 percent tax levy increase.

The proposed 4.81 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.

“It’s extremely critical to note this adopted, proposed budget will preserve all our current outstanding academic, co-curricular and athletic programs and opportunities for all our students,” said Superintendent Brian Monahan. “Everything which has been in place for this current school year will be maintained in the upcoming school year.  We are being extremely respectful of taxpayer dollars and recognize the very difficult financial circumstances many may facing due to COVID-19 economic challenges.”

In a further effort to control costs, the district is not presenting a bus proposition this year. After a meticulous review of the fleet’s condition and maintenance records, the Transportation Department, in conjunction with the superintendent, has determined it can hold off requesting bus replacements for one additional year, assuring the fleet’s safety and reliability.

Additionally, residents will elect three members to the Board of Education for a three-year term beginning July 1, 2020 through June 30, 2023. Candidates, who will appear on the ballot alphabetically, are Shawn Cahill, James Emery Jr., John Odland and Patricia M. Reynolds.

In accordance with Gov. Cuomo’s Executive Order 202.26, the budget vote and school board election will be held remotely, by absentee ballot only. Qualified voters will receive absentee ballots by mail. These ballots will be returned with the provided postage paid return envelope. All absentee ballots must be returned to the district by 5 p.m. on June 9. There are no exceptions and this includes postmark dates.

The annual budget newsletter will be mailed to all residents in early June.  Budget information is also available at:  Budget and Taxes