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Voters across the Hudson Valley have approved several school budgets, signaling strong community support for local education funding. In Kingston, New York, residents endorsed a nearly $250 million budget for the Kingston City School District. Alongside the budget approval, several new members were elected to the Board of Education. Superintendent Paul Padalino expressed gratitude for the community's backing during a challenging budget process. The budget, which stays below the state-mandated tax cap, will see a tax levy increase of 6.97% to $125,791,600.
In Poughkeepsie, voters also approved the district's spending plan, which includes a major proposition to provide bus service for all students living more than half a mile from school. Meanwhile, in Westchester County, the budgets for the Mount Vernon and Mamaroneck school districts received voter approval, ensuring continued funding for educational programs.
The Onteora Central School District saw its $63,558,660 budget proposal pass, though a separate capital project proposition was rejected. The Saugerties Central School District's $79,876,153 budget was approved with overwhelming support. In New Paltz, the $76,095,330 budget passed easily, despite recent approval of a $17 million facilities project.
According to Hudson Valley One, the successful budget approvals reflect a commitment to maintaining and enhancing educational services across the region. Despite some districts facing challenges with tax levy increases and state funding adjustments, the overall voter turnout demonstrated a strong desire to support local schools.