by Mike Schnitzel
"This is the highest voter turnout we've ever had and we've been keeping records since 1964," said Board of Education President Mary Boccuzzi. "There was an effort by people to help their neighbors make an informed decision, and now we can continue our programs without any more cuts. I'm ecstatic for the community and our children."
Superintendent Dr. Arnold Dodge expressed satisfaction with the vote. "We're going to move forward and have a great year," he said.
The budget proposes expenditures of $25,868,786, a 5.97 percent increase over the current budget. Its approval will result in an average tax increase of $352 for district homeowners.
A total of $665,000 was cut from the initial budget, which was voted down on May 17. "I think we're going to have a great program for the kids," said Dodge. "The board was very surgical with the cuts they made."
Had the reworked budget failed, the district would have operated on an austerity budget, which would have required an additional $662,000 in funding cuts. "If the budget had failed, we would have had to cut to the bone," said Boccuzzi. "It would have been devastating."
Sue Torborg, a lifelong East Rockaway resident, an E.R. high school alumna and an employee of the school district, was grateful for the budget's passage. "Thanks to the community, who did the right thing for the students," she said.
Despite the approval, many voters remain concerned with increasing taxes. "I did vote for [the budget], but typical of most taxpayers, it seems like a lot of money," said Peter Dixon.
Resident Joseph Ragusa voted for the budget as well, but is worried about its financial implications. "I voted yes, but I think it's too much as a senior citizen," he said.
Judi Fuller, an East Rockaway alumna and a life-long resident, has plans to energize Long Island with a huge letter-writing campaign to Albany. "We need to tell them that people are being driven off Long Island because of taxes," she said.
Fuller proposes that Albany "give all districts what they need" - that there be adequate school aid and no more unfunded mandates. "Now is the time to come together and work towards change," she said.
Karenlyn Barone contributed to this story. Comments about it? KBarone@liherald.com or (516)569-4000 ext. 265.
