On Tuesday, May 21, Voorheesville Central School District residents will vote on a proposed $34,482,366 budget for the 2024-25 school year that would maintain all current student programs and services. The proposal increases spending by $4,403,875 (14.64%) and carries a tax levy increase of 3.75%. The majority of the increase includes a $3 million transfer for the capital project approved by the voters in December 2022. Absent that one-time event, the budget increase is 4.66%. The proposed tax levy increase is at the district’s 3.75% tax levy limit, or cap. As a result, the proposal will need a simple majority vote for approval.
The budget proposal would allow VCSD to continue all current programs and services, including BOCES Career and Technical Education. The proposal also includes several key additions to meet the needs of students now and in the future. The addition of a part-time math intervention instructor would strengthen the foundation for academic achievement for all students. With the aim of creating collaborative and flexible classrooms, the district is proposing a small pilot test of a furniture program to replace older pieces. Safety is a priority; a new security/hall monitor would be added to the Jr./Sr. Campus. And, to enhance connections with families and the community, the district would expand BOCES Communications Services from two to three days a week.
On May 21, residents will also vote on a bus proposition. As part of the district’s ongoing bus replacement plan, the proposal calls for the purchase of two 72-passenger buses at a cost of
$350,000. State aid would fund $231,000 (66%) and $119,000 (34%) would come from the local share, which would be paid over a five-year period. The district is working with consultants on a plan for upcoming state requirements for zero emission buses.
Additionally, voters will elect two candidates, each for a four-year term that begins July 1.
Candidates appearing on the ballot:
- Matthew Bergeron
- Kathy Fiero
- Timothy Kremer
Additional information is available here.
Polls will be open from 2:30-9 p.m. at the Voorheesville Middle School Foyer. Voters who are unable to vote in person and would like to cast an absentee ballot, or voters who would like to utilize early mail voting, may request a ballot by filling out the appropriate application.
An absentee ballot is available here.
An early mail ballot is available here.
If you request that an absentee or early mail voter ballot be sent to you by mail, a completed application must be received by the district clerk at least seven days before the vote – by Tuesday, May 14 at 3 p.m.. The deadline is May 20, if the ballot is to be delivered personally to the voter. Ballots MUST be returned by May 21, 2024 to be counted. Email Board of Education Clerk Jessica Tabakian for more information on ballots.