Board debates 2025-26 budget, administration recommends 2.5% tax levy as UPK demand rises

The Cornwall Central School District Board of Education on March 24 debated a $92.72 million recommended budget for 2025–26 and a proposed 2.5% property tax levy that administration says preserves current programs and avoids staff cuts.

Administration’s recommended budget and why it matters

Assistant Superintendent for Business Mr. Fink presented the recommended expenditures and revenues, saying the recommended budget totals $92,721,136 and includes a proposed 2.5% tax levy. Mr. Fink said the plan “will not cut staff, okay, and we will not excise, excess staff,” and that the recommendation relies on a combination of state aid, miscellaneous revenue and about $2.3 million of assigned fund balance to balance the books.

The nut graf: what the board must decide

The board must decide whether to present the administration’s recommendation to voters or to change the levy or draw further on the district’s assigned fund balance. The discussion focused on whether to add items from a district “needs assessment” — which includes positions such as guidance and early-intervention staff, safety monitors and additional universal prekindergarten (UPK) seats — and how to pay for them.

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