Say ‘yes’ to I.P. school budget

The proposed Island Park $38.78 million spending plan is actually $120,198 smaller than this year’s — a .31 percent decrease. The proposed $31.82 million tax levy, as well, is .18 percent smaller than the current year.

The district is adding a math program, expanding Lego engineering and ESL programs, hiring staff and buying a new school bus.

School officials decided to use $87,000 in unexpected state funds for next year’s budget, reducing their reliance on fund balance. We urge a ‘yes’ vote for the budget.

Vote for McDonough

Trustee Nina Hargrove is stepping down from the Island Park school board.

Newcomer Kathleen McDonough is running unopposed. We think McDonough, an active member of the PTA and a third-grade teacher in the Lawrence School District, will be a great replacement.

Approve the Library budget, vote for McCreight

Next year, the Island Park Library has a minuscule tax levy increase — $1,540, or .12 percent — for a total of $1.28 million. This is approximately 50 cents per household in an almost $1.32 million budget.

The budget will keep up existing programs and services, maintain the building and keep pace with cost increases, while adding an online car database and another session in the popular exercise program. We urge it’s approval.

The Herald also encourages voters to re-elect Library Trustee Tom McCreight, a former library board president who has shown his dedication to the library over the past 18 years.