Local residents will vote on the Sachem School District's $294.2 million proposed budget for the 2014-15 school year on Tuesday.
The proposal calls for a 2.53 percent increase in spending over the current year and carries a 1.92 percent tax levy increase, which is within the state's tax cap for the district. If approved, the average homeowner in the district would pay an additional $106 in school taxes next year. However, school officials have said residents would receive a state tax rebate check for that same amount, thus making the budget effectively a zero percent tax hike.
Five candidates are running for three seats on the Sachem Board of Education. Incumbent Teri Ahearn is being challenged by Sara Wottawa. Victor J. Canales is running unopposed for the current seat of Dorothy Roberts. Roberts and Kelly Burnham are running for the seat being vacated by Christine Lampitelli, who is not seeking reelection.
The candidates in their own words:
Victor Canales: Why You Should Elect Me to the Sachem School Board
Kelli Burnham: Why You Should Elect Me to the Sachem School Board
Dorothy Roberts: Why You Should Elect Me to the Sachem School Board
Sara Wottawa: Why You Should Elect Me to the Sachem School Board
Teri Ahearn: Why You Should Elect Me to the Sachem School Board
Polls are open Tuesday at all 12 Sachem elementary schools from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. Find more information on the proposed budget on the district's website here.
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