Proposed 2013/14 School Budget for Voter Approval on May 21, 2013
 

As you are aware, the school budget process has become more and more difficult due to a number of factors that have affected the local, State, and national fiscal economies. At the local level we are dealing with spiraling costs and mandates. New York State has suffered its worst economic loss in decades. The Federal Government withdrew economic stimulus programs and is currently involved in sequestration.
 
We began this budget process with increases in health care, pension plans, and the normal inflation factors causing a budget-to-budget difference of over $1,000,000.00. In addition to these increasing costs, our State Aid has been reduced by over $6.5 million in the last four years. We were able to close this budget gap by reducing costs, where possible, refinancing some capital debt, reaching agreement on our teacher contract, and the use of reserve funds. These reserves are similar to your own savings account and should be used sparingly as they are finite resources. As we reduced costs, we were very sensitive to reducing the opportunities for our students through further cuts to educational programs. We are, after all, here to educate our children in the most fiscally responsible manner possible.
 
The budget proposal being presented to the voters has a modest budget-to-budget increase of $ 175,828 or 0.39%. While the current Allowable Tax Levy Limit (Tax Cap) for Cortland Enlarged City School District is 4.7%, the Board of Education is proposing a tax levy increase of 2.9%. This would result in an estimated increase of $49.55 per year on a home valued at $100,000.00.
 
Thank you to the Board of Education and community members for your creative efforts and input during this year’s budget process. You should be commended for keeping the best interests of our students as your compass with an eye toward preparing them for their future.
 
The annual budget vote is set for Tuesday, May 21. Polls will open from 12 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Polling places are located at the Kaufman Center, Cortlandville Town Hall and Virgil Elementary School. Please exercise your right to vote on May 21.

 

May 21, 2013 - Budget Vote and School Board Election
Polls open 12 noon - 9:00 p.m.