Photo: JillianCain / iStock / Getty Images
Today (May 20), residents across the Hudson Valley are heading to the polls to vote on school district budget proposals for the 2025-26 school year. The state budget, which was passed late, includes over $37.5 billion in school aid, an increase of $1.7 billion from the previous year. However, many districts had to draft their spending plans before the final state aid numbers were available.
In the Lower Hudson Valley, three of the 53 voting school districts are seeking to raise their tax levy beyond the "tax cap" limit. Polling hours vary by district, so residents are encouraged to check their district's website for specific times and locations. Typically, voter turnout for school elections is low, despite the importance of these decisions for the upcoming school year, which begins on July 1.
In Kingston City School District, voters will decide on a $249,522,500 budget proposal that maintains all student programs while staying below the state-mandated tax cap increase of 7.27 percent. The district plans to use $12.25 million in existing reserves to help fund the spending plan. Superintendent Paul Padalino noted that the proposed state aid increase does not keep pace with rising costs.
Meanwhile, in Saugerties Central School District, the proposed budget is $79,876,153, with a tax levy increase of 3.43 percent. Superintendent Daniel Erceg emphasized the importance of balancing student needs with taxpayer concerns.
In New Paltz Central School District, the budget proposal is $76,095,330, which includes a 4.35 percent tax levy increase. Superintendent Stephen Gratto highlighted the challenges posed by a low state aid package and the need to overcome a $2 million tax increase.
Voting locations and times vary, with some districts starting as early as 6 a.m. and others ending as late as 9 p.m. Residents can find their designated polling places on their respective district websites.