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District unveils $131.8 million budget with 3.72% tax‑levy increase and Pre‑K/community‑center proposal
Summary
At the May 7 budget hearing the district presented a proposed $131,816,042 budget (about $4.4 million increase year‑to‑year) with a 3.72% proposed tax‑levy rise, described drivers including health benefits, special education and debt, and outlined a capital proposal to convert a campus into a 10‑classroom Pre‑K/community center with a target start in fall 2027 if approved by voters.
The Katonah‑Lewisboro Union Free School District presented its final budget hearing on May 7, framing the proposed $131,816,042 spending plan as an attempt to sustain programs while absorbing rising benefits, special‑education placements and debt service.
Lisa, the district presenter for the budget hearing, told the board the proposal represents roughly a $4.4 million or 3.46% budget‑to‑budget increase and includes a proposed property tax‑levy increase of 3.72%. She highlighted benefits (primarily health insurance), rising special‑education costs driven by placements beyond district control, and increased debt service related to previously approved capital work as the principal cost drivers.
The presentation said the district expects a net reduction of approximately 11 full‑time equivalent positions as part of levy‑limit planning, accomplished largely through attrition and position realignment. Lisa noted that some debt increases are offset over time by building aid tied to the 2022 bond projects and that the district has set aside a $2.5 million reserve to manage cash flow and timing of capital reimbursements.
A separate capital proposition presented to voters would repurpose an existing campus for Pre‑K and community use. Plans in the presentation identify 10 classrooms (projected capacity roughly 180 four‑year‑old seats at full enrollment), enclosed exterior play space, upgraded HVAC and roofing, accessibility improvements and a secured entry design for the preschool area. Presenters stressed compliance with New York State building‑aid rules (including a 900‑square‑foot threshold used by the state for eligible classrooms) and said that, if voters approve, the district would seek to begin work with a target of fall 2027 for Pre‑K operations.
Board members asked about enrollment forecasting, participation assumptions for universal Pre‑K and the mechanics of building aid. Presenters said the district conducts five‑year demographic studies and is planning flexible classroom designs that could be subdivided if demand grows. They also discussed opportunities to re‑engage solar contractor Honeywell and other energy work to offset operations on the site.
The board was reminded that the budget vote and board election are scheduled for May 19 (polls 6 a.m.–9 p.m. at the elementary schools), with public Q&A sessions on May 12 and May 14 and a special voter‑registration opportunity May 9 at the district office.
Votes recorded during tonight’s meeting included routine procedural approvals (see 'Votes at a glance' below); the budget itself will go to the public vote on May 19.
Votes at a glance
- Return to public session: Motion by Arwin, second by Bill; voice vote 6 in favor. - Consent agenda (including Westp budget and slate): Motion by Marjorie, second by Bill; voice vote 6 in favor. - Adjournment: Motion by Carolyn, second by Arwin; voice vote 6 in favor.
