A significant portion of the meeting was devoted to addressing concerns about recent property tax increases. The board explained that the town’s fiscal year runs from January to December, while the school district’s fiscal year spans from July to June, leading to complexities in coordinating tax bills. This year, the town chose to lower the percentage increase for the third quarter, resulting in a higher increase in the fourth quarter, which has caused some concern among residents due to its timing with the holiday season. The board president highlighted the importance of school funding in maintaining home values and emphasized that the tax increase stemmed from necessary budget discussions with state decision-makers. Notably, the school district accounts for 60% of the property tax bill, explaining its significant impact on overall taxation.

The board is engaged in ongoing discussions with the township to better align and clarify quarterly tax payments for future budget years. The board president stressed community support for the tax increase.

The meeting also involved the approval of resolutions related to non-certificated and certificated personnel. The board welcomed new paraprofessionals and voted on personnel resolutions without discussion, unanimously approving them. One administrative correction was noted in the hiring resolutions, specifically removing a letter concerning employee Jose Natal from one of the resolutions. Following the approval, new staff members were invited to introduce themselves and a group photo was taken to mark the occasion.

Another topic of interest was the discussion of a successful levy application, which resulted in state approval for $23 million in expenditures. The board’s administration confirmed the approval process had been challenging, but a letter from the state confirming the approval was available on the district’s website. The board expressed gratitude to Mr. Widell for his efforts in navigating these budgetary challenges.

In the realm of infrastructure, board members discussed completed paving projects near the grade nine center and outside Wisdom Way. These improvements were acknowledged as positive uses of budget funds.

The meeting also touched on old and new business, including the mention of paving projects and the impending departure of an individual named Dave Cadino, whose contributions to the district were recognized. Discussions also included a proposed joint meeting with the town council to address budget-related issues. However, it was noted that previous attempts to schedule such a meeting had been unsuccessful due to conflicting schedules. There were concerns about a recent town council budget presentation that seemed to place blame on the school board for tax increases. Board members called for better collaboration and communication with the town council, emphasizing that all entities are facing rising costs.