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Hampton Bays leaders outline $67.5 million spending plan, set May 20 budget vote
Summary
District officials presented a $67.5 million spending plan with a 2.16% spending increase and a 3.32% tax levy cap; they said state aid will decline this year and reminded residents the budget and two ballot questions go to voters on May 20.
HAMPTON BAYS — District staff presented the Hampton Bays Union Free School District—s proposed 2025–26 budget at the board—s regular meeting, describing a $67,500,000 spending plan that would raise spending by about 2.16% and remain within a tax levy cap of 3.32%.
"Our tax levy cap is 3.32%, and that's how much taxes would increase," said Mister Clemonson, who led the budget presentation. He said the district expects the spending plan to be funded by a mix of property taxes, pilot revenue, local revenue and state aid.
Clemonson said the 2025–26 budget comes as the district faces its first year of decreased state aid, which district staff attributed to rising local assessed values and equalization factors used in the state—s foundation aid formula. He described current enrollment at about 2,011 students and noted a projected unadjusted decline if in- and out-migration were not considered; he also highlighted program offerings, including 14 college dual-enrollment courses, 18 Advanced Placement courses and career-and-technical-education pathways.
The presentation listed planned facility work for the summer, including window replacements, elementary and middle-school playground upgrades supported by COVID-relief and a grant, replacement of restroom fixtures in older wings dating to 1957 and 1968, and continued HVAC upgrades.
Clemonson described two questions that will appear on the May 20 ballot: (1) whether the community accepts the 2025–26 budget and (2) whether the board may use up to $300,000 of any year-end surplus for basic repairs and renovations. Absentee ballots are available at the district office during normal business hours.
The board opened and closed the budget hearing by motion during the meeting. The budget itself will be decided by voters on Tuesday, May 20, when polls are open from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.
