Vote for your Central and local school budgets

Bellmore-Merrick Central High School District officials this year kept the budget not only within the state-mandated tax-levy cap, but well under it, at 2.98 percent.

Because of an unexpectedly large increase in state school aid, as well as the strategic use of capital reserves, the levy is a quarter of a percent lower than what is allowed under state law, so endorsing the $153.66 million budget is an easy call.

The $26.1 million state aid package that the district received is helping officials balance out the budget hike associated with starting debt payments on a nearly $50 million facilities bond, which voters passed in 2013. Work is now well under way on a host of capital projects to improve the district’s facilities.

Residents will also vote on Proposition Two. Last year’s Proposition Two created a capital reserve fund when it passed with 77 percent of the vote. This year, residents will vote on whether the district will start using the $1.51 million now in the fund, which will go to a number of capital projects, which could include replacement of Calhoun’s track and district fuel tanks, and improvement to classroom floors and ceilings.

We encourage a yes vote on Proposition Two as well, knowing well that keeping our schools in excellent shape makes for the best possible learning environment for students.

Voters are also encouraged to support the budgets presented by officials in their elementary school districts, which were painstakingly put together, and generally well-reasoned in a series of publications and presentations. Strong foundations in these districts make for a strong high school district.

The Central High School District does not hold elections for its Board of Education, but rather draws its members from each of the elementary school districts. In the case of Merrick and Bellmore, in which only incumbents are running or there are no contested races, we still encourage you to cast your votes for the candidates on the ballot.

See the Community Calendar, on Page 10, for your voting times and locations.