Amherst CSD proposes $81.67 million budget, tax levy rises 2.33% under state tax-cap

The Amherst Central School District presented its proposed $81,672,000 budget for the 2025–26 school year at a public hearing, saying the tax levy is tax‑cap compliant and would rise 2.33% if voters approve the plan.

District officials told attendees they used January executive‑budget aid estimates to forecast a projected $1.7 million (about 5.8%) increase in state aid and that foundation aid is expected to rise by just over $1 million. Without a final state budget, presenters said the January figures were the most reliable numbers available.

The budget presentation emphasized preserving instructional programs, health and safety, and social‑emotional supports. The spending plan would increase total expenditures from the current $78.7 million to the proposed $81.672 million, an overall increase the presenter described as 3.66% driven largely by personnel and benefit costs and higher special‑education and BOCES expenses.

The hearing also summarized revenue and reserve use. The district plans to allocate roughly $1.0 million from fund balance and about $186,000 in appropriated reserves (including…