Horseheads Board of Education finalizes budget

HORSEHEADS, N.Y. ( WETM ) – The Horseheads Board of Education voted on a tax cap challenge scenario that would save the four jobs potentially in jeopardy.

“This is a watershed moment for the board for the community that they’ve asked for.”

The board of education was given three options. The option they chose would include a challenge of an additional $288,000, a tax increase of $24 for a $100,000 home, $48 for $200,000 home and so on, while keeping the jobs of the two nurses and two administrators.

“You can’t be surprised or happy that taxes could go up,” said Superintendent Dr. Thomas Douglas.

“To see that we could possibly have that additional support for the students in this school means the world to me and I know this will mean the world to our students. Especially the ones that made those amazing connections,” said Board Member Erin Schiavone

“I would be very supportive of the far right column,” said Board Member David Christmas.

“I’m all in with the addition of the two LPN’s and the two administrators,” said Board Member MaryAnne Corbett.

With the state budget still not being passed, no state funding will go into the budget. When the state budget is passed, an estimated $100,000-$200,000 surplus will be awarded to the district. None will go toward the district budget.

“We were hoping to have some state aid. There is no state aid. As a matter of fact, they put an extender into next week and if they don’t get a budget by Monday it’s going to be at least two weeks late. Once we approve this, these are the numbers. It doesn’t matter what the state does. The state will just be sort of extra at that point,” said Dr. Douglas.

Community members were  able to comment. All were gracious for the board’s work.

“Thank you very much for doing what you’ve done so far,” said Bill Finnerty, President of the Horseheads Teachers Association.

“I want to thank you for working hard to save as many positions as possible,” said School Psychologist Amy Trimber.

The challenge needs approval from voters. If not approved, the board will need to deliberate further on the other scenarios.

A public hearing will be held on May 6, 2024. The voters will decide on the finalized budget on May 21, 2024.

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