Valley Stream elementary budget preview

DISTRICT 13

Proposed budget: $45,811,975
Change: +$1,152,627 (+2.58 percent)

Tax levy: $34,100,613
Change: +$864,423 (+2.6 percent)
Tax cap allowable increase: 2.6 percent

Tax impact: The average homeowner would see their elementary tax bill rise by $8.23 next year, according to district officials.

Budget highlights: The proposed budget maintains all programs and class sizes. It includes funding for an additional part-time math specialist, and several capital projects, including new doors and bathroom upgrades, and repaving the basketball court at Howell Road School and blacktop area at Willow Road School.

Revenue: The district is slated to receive $9.57 million in state aid next year, an increase of about a half-million dollars. District 13 will also be using $1.875 million from its reserves.

Contingency budget: If the budget were to fail twice, the district would have to cut $864,423 from its proposed spending plan. All capital projects, expect those related to safety, would be eliminated. The use of school facilities by community members would be limited. Possible cuts could include the summer recreation program, instrumental music and extracurricular activities. Class sizes may also increase.

Board of Education: There are three seats up for election this year. Sean Douglas is running unopposed for his second full term. Long-time trustee Frank Chiachiere is being challenged by Patrick Heaney, and three-term incumbent Debra Evans faces Patricia Farrell. Both Heaney and Farrell ran last year. All terms are for three years.

Voting information: Polls are open from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. at the James A. Dever, Howell Road, Wheeler Avenue and Willow Road schools.