Minisink Valley School District residents approved the proposed 2020-21 $99,996,558 school budget in a 3,060 to 2,305 absentee ballot vote.

The results showed 57 percent of voters approved the proposed budget.

The approved budget maintains all current student programs and services.

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.

“We are tremendously grateful to voters for approving this budget,” said Superintendent Brian Monahan. “Everything which has been in place for this current school year will be maintained in the upcoming school year.  This budget is extremely respectful of taxpayer dollars, is tax cap compliant and allows us to continue to provide the best possible education to the children in the Minisink Valley community. Thank you for your continued support of our efforts and for the trust you give us to educate your children.”

In a further effort to control costs, the district didn’t present 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, determined it can hold off requesting bus replacements for one additional year, assuring the fleet’s safety and reliability.

Additionally,  Shawn Cahill, James Emery Jr.  were re-elected and Patricia M. Reynolds was elected to Board of Education for a three-year term beginning July 1, 2020 through June 30, 2023.  The results are:

Shawn Cahill: 2,970 votes
James Emery, Jr.: 3,082 votes
John Odland: 2,842 votes
Patricia M. Reynolds: 2,847 votes

This year’s budget vote and election took place in accordance with Gov. Cuomo’s Executive Order 202.26, and was held remotely, by absentee ballot only. Qualified voters returned their absentee ballots in person to the district clerk’s office by 5 p.n. on June 9 with a later extension allowing them to mail ballots back to the district clerk by 5 p.m. on June 16.