East Rockaway voters say 'yes' to school budget

Residents voted to pass the East Rockaway School District $36.8 million budget proposal with a healthy 657-373. The 2013-14 spending plan was one that fell below the maximum allowable tax levy increase, 3.43 percent, without cutting any educational or co-curricular programs or services.

"I want to thank the community for coming out and voting," said Superintendent Roseanne Melucci. "This was a difficult year. This was just fantastic. I want to leave this passed budget for the next superintendent." Melucci announced her retirement recently, and the district is conducting a search for a new superintendent.

School Board incumbents keep seats

Incumbent and Board President Kristin Ochtera kept her seat with 607 votes, as did Patti Nicoletti, who garnered 623 votes. Challengers Keith Gamache got 281 votes, and Pat Gillespie, 365 votes.

"Now we have work to do," said Ochtera. "Real work. I want to thank the community for their solid support."

"I am thrilled be to able to continue serving on the board," said Nicoletti. "and to be able to move East Rockaway forward."

Two other propositions were also up for a vote and both passed: Proposition 2 got 649 to 246 votes. The proposition will allow the district to use $181,728 from its capital reserve to complete the installation of interactive whiteboards and computer hardware upgrades, among other improvements.

Proposition 3 passed with a 497-199 vote, which will allow the district to use of $200,000 in reserves for building improvements and repairs, including security cameras and parking lot drainage work. These two propositions have no effect on the tax levy.