Budget development underway

Feedback sought during budget development process

Feb. 2, 2010—Under Governor David Paterson’s proposed state budget, released Jan. 19, Duanesburg Central Schools could see approximately $787,000 less in state aid, which already includes federal restoration monies, if the proposal is enacted by the Legislature.

“At this point we are still reviewing details of the governor's proposal and what it will mean for Duanesburg schools,” said Superintendent Christine Crowley. “However, there’s no doubt that we’re facing another difficult budget year, and input from residents will be critical to the development process.”

State aid has generally increased every year to help districts keep pace with the rising costs of running a school system. However, with the state’s budget crisis, foundation aid has been frozen at 2008-09 levels—leaving school districts and taxpayers to absorb inflationary increases.

The proposal for flat state aid and a Gap Elimination Adjustment—a large cut on top of the flat aid—combined with continued rising costs will result in a significant gap between expenses and revenues.

Last year, the district faced a similar situation with cuts to state aid. The budget gap was closed by a combination of a tax rate increase of 1.6 percent; $258,000 in cuts to programs and services and the restoration of some state aid through the federal stimulus package.

School districts have limited options to offset every dollar that is not derived from state aid. These include cutting programs and services and/or raising property taxes.

Over the next few months, the district will be reviewing its options with input from the community. In addition to the regularly scheduled budget meetings and workshops, two special meetings are being held on Feb. 24 and March 1.

“Those meetings are being designed specifically for community members to gain a greater understanding of the challenges before us as well as to ask questions and to solicit their feedback,” said Crowley. “We hope to see you there.”

Residents may also feel free to voice their questions and concerns or provide input by calling the district office at 895-2279 or via the district Web site.

Download the 2010-11 budget planning calendar (PDF).

Visit the Budget section of the district Web site.