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District sees predicted foundation‑aid increase but warns of steep electric rate hikes from NYPA
Summary
Superintendent and finance staff reported a significant increase in New York state foundation aid in the governor’s proposed budget while also warning that the New York Power Authority’s proposed rate scenarios could raise district electric costs by roughly $100,000 next year under a 37% increase model.
District officials said the governor’s proposed budget would raise the district’s foundation aid estimate — the unrestricted state funding districts use at their discretion — to the highest level they have seen during recent budgeting cycles. Administrators said the increase reflects updated census data (2020) and changes incorporated into the executive budget, and they cautioned the state budget is not final until legislative action in April.
At the same time, the administration told the board the district faces substantial electric rate pressure from its contract with the New York Power Authority (NYPA). Staff said NYPA presented three scenarios and the district is operating under scenario 2 in which rates would increase 37% in year one, followed by increases of 23% in years two and three and 24% in year four. Dan (district administration) said, “with that 37% increase, we'd be looking at almost a hundred thousand dollar increase in our electric bill, assuming similar usage, next year.” The district said it is urging NYPA to spread increases over a longer period — the district has requested a 10‑year phase‑in — and it is participating in NYPA meetings to press for alternatives.
Officials also flagged a range of legislative priorities they are pursuing or monitoring: telehealth expansion for student mental‑health access; a dedicated line item for school safety costs; extending the earnings waiver that allows retired staff to return to work without a $35,000 limit; increased reimbursement for career and technical education salaries; and support for English language learner staffing. The administration said those items reflect ongoing cost pressures and mandates such as the state’s electric‑bus procurement timeline and costs for school safety technology and staffing.
The board also heard a brief update on the Greenwood project, described as outdoor learning spaces with an estimated total cost of about $2.5 million; that package (including boardwalk, bridges and playgrounds at three sites) is expected to be presented next week to the host community funders and, if approved, would return to the board for formal acceptance because the funds are district host‑community monies.
District officials said they are modeling both the positive and negative budget scenarios as they prepare a preliminary budget and will present long‑term financial planning information at upcoming meetings.
