At its regular meeting on April 20, the Board of Education adopted a $24.8 million budget proposal. The proposed budget preserves the programs and services currently provided by the district. In addition to considering the budget proposal, residents will also vote on propositions related to bus leasing and the Cambridge Public Library.
Voters will also elect two candidates to fill open seats on the Board of Education. The successful candidates will serve three-year terms through June 30, 2026.
Goals shape budget additions
Each year, the district works to develop a budget that is fiscally responsible and educationally sound. This year, the proposed budget includes three new positions: an agricultural education teacher, a high school social studies teacher and a special education teacher.
- The Ag teacher will allow the district to create an Ag program and FFA chapter, which will expand course and extracurricular opportunities for secondary students.
- The new athletic director, Andrew Lapitsky, will remain a social studies teacher but have fewer course sections, causing a shortage. The high school social studies teacher will recoup those social studies sections.
- The special education teacher will allow the district to expand its services to appropriately meet the needs of our special education students.
Budget remains within tax cap
The school tax levy, or total amount of money collected from local property owners, would increase by $235,488. This 2.5% increase is within the allowable tax cap and requires a simple majority vote of 50% plus one for approval.
Voting information
Tuesday, May 16, 12-8 p.m., Elementary Gym
To vote, you must be at least 18 years old, a U.S. citizen, and a resident of Cambridge Central School District for at least 30 days prior to the vote. You do not need to be registered to vote.
All individuals must provide proof of residency at the vote. Proof must include a physical address, not a P.O. Box.
Absentee ballot information
Absentee ballots are available from the district clerk, Kate Canini, and will be issued upon request to residents who will be out of town or unable to vote at the polls due to illness or disability.
You must complete an application to receive an absentee ballot. The application must be received by the district clerk at least seven (7) days before the election if the ballot is to be mailed to the voter, or the day before the election, if the ballot is to be delivered personally to the voter. Please mail or drop off your application to 58 South Park St., Cambridge, NY 12816.
Budget newsletter
Newsletters are being mailed to all district residents next week.