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Shelter Island board outlines 2% budget increase and 6.78% proposed tax levy increase for 2026-27
Summary
Superintendent Dr. Brian Doelger presented a proposed 2026-27 budget with a 2% total increase (to $13.573 million), a proposed tax levy of $12.538 million (6.78% increase), and a reduced appropriated fund balance from about $900,000 to $176,000; the budget vote is scheduled for May 19.
Superintendent Dr. Brian Doelger presented the Shelter Island Union Free School District's proposed budget for 2026' 2027 during a public hearing May 11 and urged community turnout for the May 19 vote.
Key figures detailed by Doelger include a proposed total budget increase of 2% (from $13.298 million to $13.573 million) and a proposed tax levy increase of 6.78 to $12.538 million. State aid was described as projected to be flat amid ongoing state budget negotiations. The district is reducing its appropriated fund balance (reserves) from about $900,000 to $176,000, a roughly 64% decrease, intended to reduce long-term reliance on reserves.
Doelger outlined potential consequences if voters reject the budget: the board would have to reduce the budget to remain within the tax cap, which could lead to cuts to extracurriculars, athletics, cafeteria services or staff. The board also described cost-containment steps taken previously including eliminating positions through attrition, consolidating administrative roles and moving transportation to an East Hampton partnership to mitigate bus-contract escalations.
Voting logistics were announced: the budget vote is scheduled for Tuesday, May 19 in the school gym with extended hours from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; absentee ballots are available through Deputy District clerk Mallory Clark (Ext. 110).
