By Karenlyn Barone
The Malverne School District, whose budget faced the most vocal opposition from residents, passed its $33.1 million program, which calls for a 7.63 percent tax increase, by a 1,036-to-851 margin.
"The people who are interested in making this district the very best it can be cast a vote for all children by passing this budget," said Phyllis Wright, board of education trustee.
Wright, an incumbent, will return to her seat on the board after beating challenger Mindy Clements, 1,166 to 622. Gregory Padmore beat Thomas Grech, 953 to 736, for the second open seat, which became operational on Tuesday night.
Lynbrook's $51.9 million budget, with an 8.39 percent tax increase, was approved by homeowners with a vote of 1,252 to 672. Proposition 2, which called for $1,475,000 for the addition of a chorus and practice rooms and storage for instruments and uniforms at South Middle School, also passed by a vote of 1,128 to 672.
Cathy Papandrew beat Bill Kayen, 927 to 869, for the lone contested school board seat, while incumbents Phyllis Caruso and Michael Rehns garnered 1,415 and 1,403 votes, respectively, earning them each another three-year term.
East Rockaway's $22.4 million budget passed with a margin of 145 votes, 514 to 369. With this budget, average homeowners can expect a 4.61 percent tax increase.
"As a community, we are interdependent on each other," said Vicky Alspector, school board trustee. "The adults have the responsibility and honor of educating our youth, and the youth have the responsibility to work hard and appreciate their support."
The board's two uncontested seats will be filled by incumbents Mary Boccuzzi and Debbie Tufano. Having received a majority of 585 votes, Boccuzzi lands a full three-year term, while Tufano, with 531 votes, will finish out the seat vacated by retired trustee Sal Scrimenti, serving 2 years, 41 days.
"I am very pleased that this budget passed," said Boccuzzi. "The children deserve no less."
