Tentative 2011-2012 School Budget Increases by Roughly 1 Percent

The has approved a tentative budget for the 2011-2012 school year with an increase of about a quarter of million dollars, or roughly 1 percent, up from last year.

Thursday night the board met to approve the tentative budget to submit to the county by Friday’s deadline. Once the county approves the proposed budget the board can present details to the public. The board has already announced it will host a budget presentation Tuesday, March 29 in the high school auditorium.

The total budget in the amount of $25,917,315 includes a general fund of $24,330,153, special revenue in the amount of $786,960 and total debt service of $800,202. Last year’s total budget including special revenue and debt service amounted to $25,663,843. Compared to the proposed tentative budget for this year the difference is $254,472.

The 2011-2012 proposed tax levy, amount to be raised by local taxes, is $23,876,774, an increase of less than a quarter of a million dollars from the 2010-2011 budget. This number includes $544,231 for debt service. There were no figures for special revenue available.

After a massive cut by the state last year slashing the district’s aid by more than half, the district received $415,068 from the state last year. of $234,072 in state aid for a total of $649,140 for the 2011-2012 year.

At recent meetings, board members and administrators have stated that they have been looking for new ways to bring in more revenue. school district allowing them to use the Heights district’s accounting and financial services – which will financially benefit Hasbrouck Heights. Theas another way to generate revenue.