Evesham School Board Approves Budget with Tax Increase
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Meeting Type:
School Board
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Meeting Date:
06/27/2024
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Recording Published:
06/27/2024
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Duration:
108 Minutes
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State:
New Jersey
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County:
Burlington County
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Towns:
Evesham
- Meeting Overview:
The Evesham School Board recently convened to finalize and approve the budget for the 2024-2025 school year, which includes a 3.9% tax levy increase. During the meeting, the board detailed the revisions from the previously presented budget, highlighting the financial implications for the district and taxpayers. The approved budget will see an increase in the tax levy from $1.7 million to $2.66 million, resulting in an annual tax dollar increase for the average assessed home from $92.81 to $144.64, with the tax rate moving from 1.322 to 1.34.
In a turn of events, the board discussed updated safety guidance from local law enforcement, leading to a decision to implement busing for two schools, Briwood Middle School and Marlton Elementary School, for the forthcoming year. To offset the cost of the new busing service, the board approved the reallocation of funds, moving $60,000 from the shift dividend.
The meeting also saw the board expressing satisfaction in being able to restore various educational positions that had been previously cut. These positions include those in instrumental music, Spanish, related arts, and special education, as well as teaching assistant roles. The restoration of these positions was met with gratitude from the board.
Another topic of interest was the discussion surrounding the preschool application for the 2024-2025 school year. It was noted that the application was not yet available, but the board planned to complete and submit it once it was ready, pending board approval.
Public engagement during the meeting revolved around concerns regarding the budget, specifically questions about the district’s surplus and reserves. One community member inquired about the necessity of raising the levy in light of a speculated $2.3 million surplus. The board addressed this by clarifying that the actual surplus amount would not be known until the fall and that there was no current indication of such a surplus.
Additionally, the board discussed the authorization for potential transfers to capital and maintenance reserves. This measure was explained as a way to provide flexibility for the board to restore reserves if there is an opportunity to do so, emphasizing responsible financial management.
The superintendent took time to wrap up the school year, thanking the Board of Education for its support of the final budget presentation and reaching out to families to gather their aspirations for the upcoming school year. A message from a family was shared.
Administratively, the board progressed through its items, with a notable dissent on item 7.4 by one member, who voted no, while approving the other items on the agenda. The discussion on finance and operations included concerns about the tax increase but also recognized the positive outcome of the new busing decision.
Personnel changes were also on the agenda, with the appointment of a new director of personnel, Michael Mongan. Mongan expressed his appreciation and eagerness to assume his new role.
The meeting concluded with board member announcements, which included a commendation for a member of the local police department for their heroic actions. The board then proceeded to adjourn the meeting.
Dr. Justin Smith
School Board Officials:
David Bock, Jaron Brown, Aiden DeMarsey, Joe Fisicaro, Tracy Fox, Aneesh Kanthan, Janis Knoll, Jamie Lee, William Thompson
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Meeting Type:
School Board
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Meeting Date:
06/27/2024
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Recording Published:
06/27/2024
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Duration:
108 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
New Jersey
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County:
Burlington County
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Towns:
Evesham
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