Baldwin school district 2024-25 budget passes

There were no surprises with voters when it came to how ballots were cast for the  Baldwin school district.

The budget passed easily Tuesday night with 1,158 votes in favor to 700 against.

Voters also approved a capital bond proposal was passed with 1,009 yes votes to 828 saying no.

On the education board, both board president Mary Jo O’Hagan and Annie Doresca were elected to new terms, defeating Mahogany Williams, who lost the three-way race for two seats. Doresca led votes with 1,089, while O’Hagan picked up just over 1,000.

The adopted spending plan, finalized on April 17 exceeds the current budget by $6.5 million, totaling $163.9 million.

Roughly 75 percent of the budget would be earmarked for education, with the remainder set aside for administrative and capital reserves purposes, according to the district’s website.

The approved proposal amounts to $134.8 million, with the bond projected to have a lifespan of 15 to 20 years.

Similar to a homeowner’s loan, the district will gradually repay the bond over time.

This bond represents just one facet of the multi-year, multi-funded capital project initiative outlined on the district’s website.

The app-roved capital bond proposal is set to modernize and revitalize century-old buildings within the district.

The comprehensive project will encompass renovations throughout the high school, with plans for transforming various facilities such as the athletic center, performing arts center, parking/site areas, cafeteria, and more.

Additionally, the Baldwin public library budget of $5 million was approved 1,303-590.

Shannon Castang-Feggins will keep her seat after no one else filed to run against her.