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District presents draft 2025‑26 budget with roughly $1.5 million shortfall; levy shown below tax cap
Summary
Business officials told the board the draft budget shows about a $1.5 million gap under a 2% levy assumption; district leaders said staffing decisions and further revenue details — including possible lease revenue from a community partner — will shape final proposals.
The Northport‑East Northport Board of Education received an initial draft of the 2025‑26 budget at its Feb. 13 meeting showing a projected shortfall of roughly $1.5 million under a 2% tax levy assumption.
Business official Bob presented the draft and told trustees the budget uses a 2% levy scenario and current state aid proposals from the executive. He said that model generates approximately $3.5 million in revenue growth but expense growth exceeds that amount, producing a budget gap of about $1.5 million.
Bob said key cost drivers include employee retirement system (ERS) contribution increases, liability insurance premium rises and planned transfers to capital reserves. He also noted the district is in year six of a seven‑year “glide path” tied to a prior settlement that will reduce a $2 million revenue source in future years.
Trustees asked about levy flexibility. Bob said the district’s calculated levy limit for next year is in a range (approximately 2.1%–2.3%) and that the 2% assumption falls below the limit; board materials showed the district has historically adopted levies below its calculated limit.
Superintendent Dr. Moyer and Bob said staffing decisions are the primary lever for closing the gap. The board plans to review staffing recommendations at the March 27 board meeting and the long‑range financial planning committee on March 4. Dr. Moyer told trustees that while the early draft shows a deficit, he expects staff to present options that bring the budget into balance by adoption.
The draft also includes tentative revenue from a lease with a community partner (referred to as the Bell Rose lease in the presentation); staff said Dickinson‑site lease revenue was not included because the tenant has not committed to the upcoming year.
Board members were briefed on the budget calendar and told the final state budget timing (likely April) could affect final figures and require adjustments.
