POB proposes $6M capital reserve transfer; administration recommends 3.45% levy plan using reserves to balance budget

The Plainview‑Old Bethpage Central School District presented the superintendent’s proposed 2026–27 budget and a capital reserve proposition on March 9.

Administration said the proposed operating budget reflects a 4.25% year‑to‑year increase and calculated a permissive tax levy of 4.01% under state formulas; the finance presentation recommended a 3.45% tax levy increase coupled with a $1.7 million transfer from the district’s tax‑reduction reserve to balance the budget. Officials emphasized they are using carefully planned reserves and that the district historically operates below the allowable levy limit.

In a related action prospective for the upcoming vote, Prop 2 would allow the district to draw $6 million from an existing capital reserve created in 2022 to fund high‑priority infrastructure needs identified in a recent Building Condition Survey — including elementary cafeteria serving‑line modernization, electrical/plumbing/ventilation work, turf field replacement, track resurfacing, door/access control upgrades, ceilings and auditorium/stage repairs. Administration said Prop 2 would not raise the tax levy because the funds have already been reserved for capital use.

Board members asked about reserve levels and long‑term capital planning; one trustee urged developing a 3–5 year capital plan because the updated BCS lists roughly $60 million in needs. Administration noted the district plans follow‑up discussions through the facilities committee and upcoming leadership summit and said use of the tax‑reduction reserve preserves short‑term tax relief while funding urgent repairs.

The board did not take a final vote on tax levy or Prop 2 that night; legal notices and proposition language will be finalized prior to the district vote.