Plan maintains programming; focuses on academics
The Arkport Central School District Board of Education adopted a $13,772,047 spending plan for the 2023-24 school year during their Wednesday, April 19 board meeting. This represents a 1.25 percent increase in the tax levy, which is below the district’s legal limit as defined by New York’s tax levy cap legislation.
The budget proposal preserves all current programs and services and aligns with the district’s goals of meeting students’ needs by providing them with the mindsets and skill sets necessary for success. This budget supports the programs that contribute to the social and emotional well-being of Arkport students, such as music, the arts and athletics.
In an effort to find cost efficiencies, the proposed plan calls for the elimination of four positions – three elementary teaching assistant positions, one high school business and one unfilled office position — and the reduction of BOCES tech support to the equivalent of two days per week. Despite these proposed cuts, the district does not foresee a change in student programming.
Voters to decide on a bus proposition
A separate proposition will appear on the May 16 ballot to lease one vehicle, at a total cost of $160,000. The New York State Department of Transportation requires that all school buses pass rigorous inspection criteria.
Residents will elect one board of education member
The Arkport community will elect one member to the board of education for a five-year term (July 1, 2023-June 30, 2028). This vacancy was created by the expiration of the term of Board member Tracie McCarthy on June 30, 2023. The candidates are (in ballot order): Timothy Bailey, Tracie McCarthy.
Budget vote day is May 16
Polls will be open from 11:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., in the district’s small gymnasium. Please enter through the main entrance. Qualified voters who wish to vote by absentee ballot must submit an absentee ballot application. To request this application, please contact District Clerk Meghann Khork via email mkhork@arkportcsd.org or by calling (607) 295-7471 ext. 1416. More information about voting can be found on the district website.