May 18, 2010

Hilton CSD $68.6 million 2010-11 budget proposal approved by voters 1,322-842

A higher than normal voter turnout, 2,180 voters up about 83% over last year came out to the polls May 18. The budget passed by a vote of 1,322-842.  The bus proposition passed by a vote of 1,188-934.  In an uncontested race, three Board of Education incumbents were returned to the Board: Michelle Frechette Ames for a third term with 1,548 votes; Steve Beauvais for a fourth term with 1,514 votes; and Barbara Cutrona for a fourth term with 1,484 votes.

Faced with a possible $3.2 million cut in state aid as proposed by Gov. Paterson, the Hilton Central Board of Education adopted a budget that was virtually frozen at the current year level at their April 13, 2010 meeting.  Following a six-month budget development process involving more than 100 staff, parents and community members, the $68,631,794 proposal is 0.17% over the current year's budget, a $115,000 increase.  In an effort to absorb the potential state aid loss, the proposal includes staff reductions [1.6 administrative; 17.2 teaching; 10 support staff]; concessions from the administrators and the administrative bargaining unit; and a $1.9 million transfer from fund balance and reserves.          2010-11 Budget Presentation           I               Budget Insight                        

"It has been a very challenging budget process this year," Superintendent of Schools David Dimbleby said. "We worked very hard to minimize effects on the educational program, but there will be an increase in class size at the elementary level; some support services outside the school day have been eliminated; some summer academic programs for at-risk students have been cut; there will be a decrease in some extracurricular activities and field trips; and some electives have been eliminated at the High School."  Included within the budget proposal is the restoration of funding for the marching band under several conditions in an attempt to strengthen the program. 

Under this budget Hilton District residents will see a minimal tax rate change according to Assistant Superintendent for Business Steven Ayers. Residents of the Town of Parma would see a 0.3% tax rate decrease; residents of Greece and Clarkson would see a 2.84% tax rate increase in; and a 55.6% decrease in Hamlin due to the Town’s full-value assessment this year.  The budget proposal will now go to voters at the Annual Budget Vote and Board Election Tuesday, May 18, 2010.  Three board of education positions are also on the ballot as the terms of Michelle Ames, Steve Beauvais and Barbara Cutrona expire this year.  To become a board candidate: nominating petitions must be filed with the District Clerk by April 19 at 5 pm. Qualifications to become a candidate for the board are: a district resident for at least one year prior to the election and a qualified voter (age 18).  Nominating petitions are obtained from the District Clerk, District Offices, in the West Avenue Building, 225 West Ave., Hilton. For further information, Hilton District Clerk is Patricia Unterborn: 585-392-1000 ext. 7099.  

For further budget information, visit the Hilton District website at  www.hilton.k12.ny.us/budget-profile.htm