North Colonie CSD residents will vote on the district’s proposed $146.9 million budget on Tuesday, May 16, from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. in the District Office, 91 Fiddlers Lane, Latham.
The proposed spending plan for the upcoming 2023-24 academic year represents a $12.1 million (or 8.98%) increase. The projected tax levy increase is 2.80%, below the allowable tax cap of 3.53%. The projected tax rate impact is 1.58% per updated information received from the assessor.
The North Colonie CSD Board of Education on April 5 unanimously adopted the proposed 2023-24 budget that will go before voters May 16. It was adopted after a series of public budget committee meetings to review all aspects of the budget.
Detailed presentation materials and the recorded live streams are all available on the Budget & Taxes webpage.
“This budget is fiscally sound and continues to provide opportunities for our students,” Superintendent Skeals said during one of the previously-held meetings. “We continue to expand services to students while being mindful, thoughtful, and fiscally responsible and sound.”
The district’s three major pillars continue to guide the work – Academic Excellence, Equity, and Social Emotional Health, she added. With a key question that needs to be asked:
“What if we help all students find and pursue their passions, give them the knowledge, skills, and opportunities to pursue their passions, and show them how their unique talents and gifts can contribute meaningfully to our society?” Superintendent Skeals said.
A public hearing sharing details of the proposed budget was held May 3 at the Shaker Middle School Auditorium. The meeting was live streamed and recorded. The public hearing presentation included a review of revenue and expenditures, the three-part component budget, property tax cap, and the full value and assessed tax rate history.
Also on the ballot are two, five-year seats on the Board of Education. Information on the candidates are on the BOE webpage.