This year, more than ever, everyone is concerned with taxes. We believe that the school districts have done their part by trying to keep expenses down without cutting necessary programs and services for students. There has always been strong support for local schools, and that support is being put to the test in this difficult economic climate.
In an effort to minimize operating costs, Lynbrook cooperates with other districts on transportation and bids for facility equipment and furniture. The district also has an agreement with the village to share fuel for district vehicles, and has implemented energy conservation and recycling programs.
If voters approve the budget, the average household will see a tax increase of approximately $400. We urge residents to vote for the spending plan.
Proposition 2
The Lynbrook School District is asking voters to approve the use of $1.375 million from its capital reserve fund to replace the North Middle School roof and air conditioning unit, bleachers at the high school, and the Atlantic Avenue/Kindergarten Center boiler. This would leave approximately $1.4 million in the fund. The Herald encourages "yes" votes on this proposition.
Candidates
Athough the two incumbents and one newcomer who are running for seats on the Lynbrook Board of Education are unopposed, we hope voters will show their support for them.
Board President Cathy Papandrew, who is seeking her third term, has said that one of the most important things a person can do for the community is serve on the school board. Rob Paskoff, who seeks a second term, said that if elected, he wants to help the district maintain its fiscal stability. Sean Strife, a lifelong Lynbrook resident, said that with three children in district schools, he owes it to the district to get more involved.
We believe all three candidates will make good on their pledges, and we enthusiastically endorse them.
EAST ROCKAWAY
With a proposed budget of $32.7 million, East Rockaway School District officials have held the increase in spending to 2.28 percent - though it is accompanied by a tax levy increase of 8.1 percent, due to the loss of more than $1 million in state aid and special education revenue. That translates into an estimated $440 annual increase in school taxes for the average homeowner.
If the budget does not pass, however, the savings for homeowners would be only $7, and the cost would be high: Reductions could include the elimination of overnight field trips, two elementary clubs and two high school clubs, summer school and the elementary computer lab, among other programs. We believe that given that lost revenue, district officials have worked out a financially prudent budget. One resident described it as a "tight, savvy and responsible budget."
Residents should vote to approve it.
Unofficial candidates
In an unusual development, two candidates came forward after the April 20 deadline yielded no takers for the lone seat on the school board. Each is hoping to garner the most write-in votes.
Michealene Abbott-Cooper is the president of the Rhame Avenue Elementary School PTA and the recording secretary for the East Rockaway Education Foundation. She is an ever-present face at Board of Education and PTA meetings, and is active in the community as well. She has two sons who attend the elementary school.
Phyllis Bongiorno is an avid supporter of school sports events and extracurricular activities. She said she would like the opportunity to get more involved in the workings of the schools.
The Herald encourages voters to make Abbott-Cooper their write-in choice. It seems to us a natural progression for her to step up to a seat on the board.
