Vote ‘yes’ on Hewlett-Woodmere budget

The proposed Hewlett-Woodmere School District budget is $113.6 million, and includes the smallest increase — $1.67 million — in 12 years and the smallest tax levy increase — 1.4 percent — in district history.
The spending plan features several new academic initiatives, such as an increase in the special-education staff, a summer program for English language learners, increased math lab time for high school students, and an outdoor environmental center at the middle school, as well as the creation of a cheerleading program at the middle school and the addition of an assistant coach to the wrestling program.
District officials, especially Dr. Peter Weber, the assistant superintendent for business, deserve credit for keeping Hewlett-Woodmere’s finances solid as districts everywhere battle rising costs and the state-mandated tax cap.
Academic performance continues to be strong, and students do not lack for extracurricular activities.
We urge voters to approve the budget on Tuesday.

Incumbents deserve your vote
Behind the district’s administration is the seven-member Board of Education. Three trustees, Stephen Witt, Melissa Gates and Jonathan Altus, are up for re-election. All are unopposed. All terms are three years.
Along with their fellow trustees, Scott McInnes, Cheryl May, Harold Kislik and Mitchell Greebel, the candidates help ensure that the school district remains one in which high academic achievement and extracurricular activities come together to provide students with an education that helps them attain success beyond the Hewlett and Woodmere communities.
We encourage voters to support the district’s success by casting a ballot for Witt, Gates and Altus.

Approve H-W Library budget
The Hewlett-Woodmere Public Library is proposing a $6.246 million budget, an increase of $52,574 over the current spending plan.
The library provides an assortment of programs and services, including movies, concerts, classes and lectures, and a place for local artists to exhibit their work and for community groups to meet. Library Director William Ferro said the facility is looking to expand its offerings.
We urge voters to support the library by approving its budget.
Hewlett resident Leslie Eisenberg is running unopposed for a five-year term as trustee. A lawyer for the state’s Department of Health, Eisenberg has also served the community as a PTA member.
She is strong advocate of public service. We endorse her candidacy.