East Ramapo unveils budget plan backed by $16 million in state aid, seeks to hold tax levy flat while adding staff and repairs

Superintendent DeCarlo and district budget staff on Tuesday presented a 2025–26 executive budget that counts on an estimated $16 million in additional New York State aid and proposes holding the local tax levy flat while adding staff and capital repairs.

The plan, the administration said, would double down on fine and performing arts, expand athletics spending, fund targeted facilities repairs and add manpower in transportation and clerical functions to improve day-to-day operations and student services. “We need to do what we need to do for our students now. We cannot wait any longer,” Superintendent DeCarlo told the board.

Why it matters: the district has faced repeated public complaints about cafeteria food, building conditions and staff shortages. The superintendent framed the budget as a multi-year start: “Tonight, we are presenting a budget that's not just for this year, but for years to come,” he said, adding that many changes depend on voter approval of the budget.

Key elements - Revenue: Chief budget presenter Mr. Stark said the draft relies on an increase in state aid (presented to the board as about…