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General News: Proposed School Budget Introduced
February 28, 2007
The annual school budget vote is May 15 and on Tuesday evening Cornwall school district officials presented a budget proposal for 2007-2008 that is a 6.88% increase over the current budget. Of that increase, all but 1.03% would cover fixed rollover costs, including teacher and employee salary increases, health insurance, retirement and social security, transportation and special education costs.
Cornwall Central School Superintendent Timothy Rehm introduced the proposed $50.9 million budget to the school board, saying that it was lean. “We looked at areas where we could cut in our present budget,” he said, adding “We are certainly cognizant of the taxpayers.”
School taxes continue to be a source of discontent among Cornwall residents, especially retirees and people on a fixed income. Voters defeated a proposed budget in 2005 and forced the school district to go on an austerity budget. Last year’s budget, which included an increase of 5.8% over the previous year, was narrowly approved.
A 6.88% budget increase does not necessarily result in a school tax increase of the same size. Last year’s budget increase of 5.8% resulted in a 4.1% increase in school tax.
Discussion of a Bond for Capital Projects
In addition to the proposed budget, school district officials are examining how to pay for several capital projects at the district’s five schools. None of the elementary schools meets the standards of the Americans with Disabilities Act, which, if not addressed, will result in the schools losing some state aid. In addition, roofs need fixing and several other repairs are called for district-wide. The district is also proposing a system-wide upgrade of communication systems, from telephones to broadband.
School assistant superintendent for business, Harvey Sotland, explained that they are studying several options to pay for the capital expenses, two of which include floating a bond.
In January, New York governor Eliot Spitzer announced a $1.4 billion increase in state aid to school districts in 2007-2008, but Cornwall school officials say that the money is earmarked for the most needy districts and Cornwall schools will actually see a smaller increase in state aid this year.
Last year, the district received more than $13.1 million in state funds.
More Work to Do on the Budget
School district officials, who have already been working on the budget proposal with members of the Cornwall community in the School Budget Advisory Committee, will further develop the proposal with the school board before presenting a final budget to Cornwall residents for a vote.
The school board will have a workshop on the proposed budget on Monday, March 5, 2007 at 7 p.m. at Cornwall Elementary School on Lee Road. The meeting is open to the public.
Details of the budget proposal can be accessed online at www.cornwallschools.com
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