Work Continues on Farmingdale School Budget

The Farmingdale School District is reviewing capital funding as part of a spending measure that voters will decide in May.

The district has proposed a 2013-2014 school-year budget that is under the state's tax levy limit, a figure determined by New York State on a district-by-district basis. In Farmingdale, that budget figure stands at just under a 3-percent increase.

“The Farmingdale School District continues to provide an in-depth forum for our residents,” said Paul Defendini, Assistant Superintendent for Business. “The District reviewed the key concepts of the proposed budget with the community and further explained how the district is committed to remain both fiscally and environmentally responsible.”

The school district is replacing windows and curtain walls throughout its facilities by using capital reserve funds. It wants to continue the project at Howitt Middle School,  Albany Avenue Elementary School and Saltzman East Memorial Elementary School.

Because the district is using the capital reserve fund, there is no increase to tax levy but by law, the use of capital reserve funds must be approved by Farmingdale residents, school officials said.

A separate proposition will be on the May 21 ballot asking voters to approve this use of the district’s reserve funds.

The district also reviewed its energy performance contract with the community.  technologies which incorporate lighting and lighting controls replacement, full energy management system direct digital control upgrade, and building  improvements including piping and valve insulation and other energy initiatives.

The district encourages community members to become involved in the issues that affect our schools.

The next board meeting will take place on April 17, 2013 at Howitt Middle School at 8 p.m.  For more information, visit the District’s website at www.farmingdaleschools.org.

The district reminds residents to vote on the 2013-2014 proposed budget on Tuesday, May 21, 2013 at the Howitt Middle School Gymnasium from 6 a.m. – 9 p.m.