Approve Island Park school spending plan

Despite infrastructure challenges, the Island Park School District has maintained good financial fundamentals, and its 2017-18 budget deserves the community’s support.

Within the proposed $39 million spending plan — $528,000, or 1.35 percent, larger than this year’s — the district’s tax levy is estimated to increase by less than $500,000, or roughly half of what is allowed under New York State’s tax cap legislation, while keeping school programming largely unchanged. That’s an impressive feat.

Districts in surrounding areas, such as Long Beach, Oceanside and Rockville Centre, have taken full advantage of the revenue they are allowed to raise by way of property taxes, but Island Park is unique in giving its taxpayers a break while still maintaining good academics. Residents should vote “yes” on this budget.

Miley is the choice for school board

Board of Education Trustee Matthew Paccione decided not to run for re-election this year, but we believe that Ray Miley, the only candidate running for his vacant seat, has a unique background that would serve any Board of Education well.

Miley, a longtime Island Park resident, is a special-education teacher and reading specialist in the New York City public school system. He is also a Eucharistic minister and lector at St. Mary’s Church, spends time teaching and coordinating an after-school program for homeless students, and is an active volunteer for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.

Ray’s wife, Phyllis, is a former Island Park PTA president, and his daughter, Jenna, who now attends Long Beach High School, is a former Island Park district student. His experience and service to the community make him a good fit for the board seat.

Continue I.P. library funding

Since 2015, the Island Park Public Library has kept its budget at an even $1.3 million while maintaining a beautiful building and keeping varied programming for library-goers of all ages. We urge voters to show their appreciation.

The election will take place at Lincoln Orens Middle School from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.