02:56Superintendent Stephen Cappello introduced the proposed budget, emphasizing its alignment with the district’s mission to promote academic success and holistic student development. Key objectives include maintaining low student-to-teacher ratios, investing in technology, and ensuring student safety. Cappello assured attendees that the budget would sustain all existing programs without imposing additional costs on parents.

11:07The budget outlines significant facility and technology upgrades, crucial for enhancing educational quality. Plans include updating interactive whiteboards, renovating classrooms at Rush School, and replacing single-pane windows at Memorial School. The district also intends to replace aging buses and expand pre-K classes, offering up to 180 free slots, which aligns with New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association (NJSIAA) requirements. An expansion of the girls’ wrestling program into a separate team and the introduction of a new Advanced Placement (AP) course utilizing existing staff were noted.

Concerns over rising student enrollment, which has increased by 21.7% from 2014 to 2024, were addressed. The proposed budget includes a total of $74,643,097, covering the general fund, special revenue fund, and debt service. However, state aid is projected to decrease by $632,907, raising concerns about the budget’s feasibility.

34:16Public comments revealed concerns over the proposed tax levy increase of 3.7%, approximately $152 annually for the average assessed home. A resident, Dan Sylvio, criticized the timing of the meeting, questioning the rationale behind tax increases amid declining enrollment. Sylvio urged the board to provide clarity on fund allocation and consider using reserve funds to offset costs. He emphasized the burden of tax increases on seniors and retirees, demanding transparency in financial decisions.

19:59The board clarified budget allocation, noting that the local tax levy of $38,496.94 is part of a larger budget, with a local share of $43 million. Equalization aid, calculated at $15,829.71, and transportation revenue from shared services contribute to the budget. Extraordinary aid, estimated at $1 million, is available for students with significant needs. Maintenance reserve withdrawals, totaling $575,000, support required maintenance across the district.

48:14During the meeting, discussions also touched on the new pre-kindergarten program, partially funded by a preschool expansion aid grant exceeding $2 million. The board highlighted the program’s public-private partnership approach to support local daycare centers, addressing concerns about potential competition. The initiative aims to collaborate with local providers to meet the demand for pre-K spaces, estimated at nearly 400 students.

52:31The adoption of the 2025-2026 school budget was a focal point, with a general fund of approximately $68.5 million, a special revenue fund of nearly $3.9 million, and a debt service fund of approximately $2.6 million. Despite some dissent, the budget passed, alongside acknowledgments of public engagement. Board members expressed the importance of community involvement in budget discussions.