East Greenbush Central School District residents approved all three propositions on this year’s Budget Vote and Board Election ballot earlier today, including a $104,840,470 budget for the 2022-23 school year, the purchase of eight school buses from the Bus Purchase Reserve Fund and the establishment of a new Capital Reserve Fund.
More than 84% of voters approved the school budget, which maintains all programs and has no tax levy increase.
“We appreciate the community’s continued support for our schools,” said Superintendent Jeff Simons. “We are mindful of the importance of ensuring the best quality education for our students and affordability for our taxpayers. I am grateful to our Board of Education for always keeping the focus on students.”
The new school buses, which will replace older buses according to the district’s bus fleet management plan, will be purchased from the district’s Bus Purchase Reserve Fund with no impact to taxpayers. The district will be reimbursed for approximately 67.9% of the total school bus purchase.
Voters also supported the establishment of a new Capital Reserve Fund, which will be used to defray the cost of construction, repairs and equipping of school buildings and facilities in the future. The fund is limited to $5,000,000 over a term of 10 years and any expenditures will require voter approval.
In addition to the school budget and other two propositions on the ballot, Jennifer O’Brien, Michele Skumurski and Emily Steinbach were elected to three-year terms on the Board of Education.
“Congratulations to board members Michele Skumurski, Jennifer O’Brien and Emily Steinbach on their election to our board,” Mr. Simons said. “It is a privilege to lead our schools in this wonderful community!”
Results:
Proposition #1: School Budget for 2022-23
Yes: 983
No: 175
Proposition #2: School Buses from Reserve Fund
Yes: 1,012
No: 140
Proposition #3: Establishment of New Capital Reserve Fund
Yes: 985
No: 166
Board of Education Election
All three candidates on the ballot have been elected to three-year terms.
Jennifer O’Brien: 968
Michele Skumurski: 961
Emily Steinbach: 901
Write-In: 28