The Watkins Glen School Board has officially approved the budget for the 2024-25 school year. Despite statewide concerns over reduced funding for education, the new budget will lower the tax rate for residents, from $10.59 to $8.72 per $1,000 of assessed property value. This tax cut is thanks to a rise in property values within Schuyler County.
The budget, totaling $30,189,050, marks a 2.58% increase in spending but stays within the legal limit for tax levy hikes. School officials highlighted that careful planning has allowed for this financial maneuvering without exceeding the state’s cap.
A public hearing is set for May 7, providing a chance for community feedback before the budget goes to a vote on May 21. The decrease in the tax rate is seen as a positive move for local taxpayers, aligning with the board’s commitment to both educational quality and fiscal responsibility.
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