Photo: Stella / fStop / Getty Images
The Kingston City School District has revealed its budget proposal for the upcoming fiscal year, outlining a spending plan of over $263 million. This marks an increase of $13 million from the current budget. District officials are pushing to reduce the property tax levy, aiming to limit the increase to just over $5 million. Residents will have the opportunity to vote on the proposal next month.
Assistant Superintendent for Business and Operations Sharifa Carbon discussed the challenges faced by the district, including maintaining quality programs within new financial constraints. During a recent presentation, Carbon highlighted the district's unique position, comparing it to a mythical creature due to its size and diversity. She emphasized the importance of balancing the budget while preserving essential programs like arts, music, and athletics.
The proposed budget reflects an anticipated state-mandated maximum allowable tax levy increase of 4.04 percent, which is lower than last year's 7.27 percent limit. The current budget stands at $249,522,500, with a local tax levy of $125,791,600. The district plans to utilize reserves to help balance the budget, though Carbon cautioned that relying on reserves is not a sustainable long-term strategy.
The budget vote and school board election are scheduled for Tuesday, May 19. Voters can cast their ballots at designated locations, including Edson Elementary School and George Washington Elementary School. Absentee and early vote-by-mail ballots are available for those unable to vote in person. Applications for these ballots must be submitted by specific deadlines, as outlined on the district's website.
For more information on the budget proposal and voting details, residents can visit the Kingston City School District's official website.