Utica voters approve 202526 budget, $120 million capital project; Danielle Padula elected to board

The Utica City School District Board of Education on May 20 and in its subsequent meeting declared the results of the annual meeting and general election, saying voters approved the district25 202526 budget and a $120,000,000 capital improvement proposition while continuing funding for the Utica Public Library.

"Thanks to our commitment to our students, faculty, and staff, the 202526 school budget has passed alongside the $120,000,000 capital improvement project and continued funding for the Utica Public Library," the presiding board member said, thanking the community for its support. The board noted the budget carries a 0% tax impact on the community.

The board read the canvass of election inspectors and adopted a resolution declaring the results. The transcript lists the budget total as $290,141,927 and records Danielle Padula as elected to a five-year term of office commencing July 1, 2025. When the presiding member asked for a motion to adopt the declaration, the motion was moved, seconded and approved by voice vote.

Why it matters: The budget includes operating dollars and a large capital component the district said will fund facility improvements; district leaders emphasized that the package preserves services—health and dental clinics, school food and other student supports—while maintaining the district25 stated fiscal stewardship. The board said administrative staff and election workers put in lengthy hours ensuring the vote and tabulation were completed.

Next steps: The board formally recorded the vote and authorized staff to proceed with administrative steps tied to the approved capital program. The board also scheduled contract and construction actions for future meetings as SED approvals and bid processes proceed.