The proposed budget and a plan to purchase another school bus were both rejected by voters on Tuesday, which was a setback for the Caledonia-Mumford Central School District.
Superintendent Rebekah Chenaille emphasized how important it is to steer clear of a budget that is set aside for unexpected expenses. “The thing, I think, that is going to be most detrimental to us is that if we go to a contingent budget, by law — not by us, not by our choice — the law says that we will not be allowed to have our taxpayers use our facilities,” Dr. Chenaille said.
Additionally, a tax levy of 2.3% was included in the initial budget in order to raise more than $180,000 for the district.
In light of the fact that the community voted against it, Dr. Chenaille proposed two alternatives: either lowering the levy to zero percent and using district reserves to raise the same amount, or adopting a contingency budget, which would give the state some control over the spending of the district.
“The community deserves to have its voice heard, to get an opportunity to weigh in on what it needs for the school budget, and I look forward to doing that across the next year. Hopefully this budget goes up because it’s what’s right for the kids,” Dr. Chenaille stated.
In response to the presentation that Dr. Chenaille gave, the board of directors made the decision to hold another vote rather than accept the contingency budget.
A proposition to purchase a new bus, which will also be funded through reserves, will be put to the vote, along with the budget for a 0% levy that will be funded through reserves.
Dr. Chenaille emphasized the significance of preserving trust with the community, which is dependent on the school for a variety of additional purposes in addition to education. Because of this, it may be necessary to use reserves in order to avoid increasing the tax levy.
The next hearing on the budget is scheduled to take place on June 10, and citizens will have the opportunity to ask questions. The re-vote of the general public is scheduled for the 17th of June.
