The Victor Town Board met last week to review the proposed school budget for 2025–26, address traffic safety concerns, and approve new appointments and public works resolutions.
Victor Central School District presents $109.7M budget
Victor Central School District Superintendent Dr. Tim Terranova, Assistant Superintendent for Business Christine Griffin, and School Board President Tim DeLucia presented the district’s proposed $109.7 million budget ahead of the May 20 vote.
The budget reflects a 6.34% increase over the current year, primarily driven by rising benefit costs and contractual obligations. No new staffing positions are included.
Terranova explained that flat state aid from 2024 to 2025 has made it challenging to maintain recent staff expansions. “We’re going to try to maintain the staff that we hired in a financially prudent way that doesn’t impact the taxpayer negatively,” he said.
Griffin noted that:
- 76% of the budget is allocated to salaries and benefits
- BOCES services, contract transportation, and insurance costs have risen
- The district will use fund balance appropriations this year and will seek increased state support moving forward
The May 20 ballot will also include:
- A $1.5 million bond proposal for six large diesel and two small gasoline buses
- Elections for three Board of Education seats
Electric bus transition delayed over grid and range concerns
In response to public inquiries, officials clarified that the district is not yet transitioning to an all-electric fleet. While committed to clean energy goals, the district continues to use diesel and gasoline buses due to:
- Insufficient power infrastructure
- Routes that exceed current electric bus range
- Delays in required grid upgrades
Griffin emphasized that electrification will remain on hold until practical and logistical barriers are resolved.
Board approves sewer fee hearing, letters of credit, and appointments
The Town Board passed several resolutions, including:
- Amending a previous pedestrian beacon resolution for the Auburn Trail
- Appointing Joseph Giorgio as full-time code enforcement officer
- Appointing Patrick Coates to the Zoning Board of Appeals and accepting Adam Hahnel’s resignation
- Setting a May 27 public hearing on one-time sewer connection fee updates
- Authorizing letter of credit releases for Highline Park Phase 1 and Meadow View development
High Street speeding concerns persist amid bridge detours
Resident Scott Riley again raised concerns about speeding on High Street, calling it “Victor Speedway.” Supervisor Jack Marren said traffic warrant studies at the intersections of High Street with Willowbrook and Gillis Roads are being considered—but will be delayed until state bridge projects are completed this summer.
Officials noted that current traffic volumes are skewed by detours. Highway staff discussed using speed sensors on existing signs and coordinating with NYSDOT on long-term traffic calming solutions.
Reports and upcoming community events
The board acknowledged departmental updates and announced upcoming events:
- Rotary Club Law Enforcement Awards
- Victor Job Fair
- Memorial Day Parade
Officials also reported that a new safety mirror was installed near the High Street Bridge at the request of the school district.
Memorial Day Parade planning and community projects
Board members confirmed their participation in the upcoming Memorial Day parade and discussed organizing banner carriers and flags. Councilman Zachary White shared early plans for a new playground at Dryer Road and invited public feedback on its development.
The meeting ended with an executive session to discuss personnel matters and ongoing litigation.
FingerLakes1.com is the region’s leading all-digital news publication. The company was founded in 1998 and has been keeping residents informed for more than two decades. Have a lead? Send it to [email protected].