Manhasset projects $1.2M year‑end surplus; resident warns per‑pupil spending has declined

The Manhasset Union Free School District's business office told the Board of Education the district expects to end the 2025–26 year with approximately $1.2 million in surplus, primarily driven by solar rebates and lower than projected health‑insurance costs.

Gerard, speaking for the district's finance team, said the adopted budget is $115,043,231 and that the combination of additional revenue and expense underruns results in an estimated year‑end surplus of about $1,200,000. He also reviewed the district's reserves: a capital reserve projected at about $7.4 million; a repair reserve estimated at about $218,000 after draws; and a teachers' retirement reserve expected to reach roughly $858,000 by June 30.

During public comment, Dan Shea praised the administration's budget communications but urged the board to consider long‑term strategies. Shea said inflation‑adjusted per‑student spending has declined "by about 11% since 2020" and is projected to decline another ~4% next year, warning that sustained declines can erode program quality and make it harder to recruit and retain staff. "The best time to invest in great school districts is before its excellence begins to erode," Shea said.

Trustees acknowledged the concern and emphasized the need to monitor reserves and expenditures; the business office said it will bring recommendations and options to future meetings. No formal budget changes were made at the meeting.