Voters Reject New Rochelle's School Budget

NEW ROCHELLE, NY — Voters in the City School District of New Rochelle went to the polls Tuesday to decide whether to pass the budget for the 2018-19 school year. The $272.8 million spending package was overwhelmingly rejected, according to unofficial results.

There were 3,119 votes against the budget and 1,689 in favor.

The budget was 5.08 percent above the current year. The tax levy increase is 3.89 percent, which exceeds the allowed tax cap. That meant the budget had to be approved by 60 percent — or 2,885 — of the voters in order to pass.

School officials and the board of education said they will being working on a revised spending plan. The board is expected to adopt a new budget May 29, with a public hearing at 7 p.m. June 5.

A second vote will take place June 19.

“We knew a tax cap override would be difficult to achieve,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Brian Osborne. “The voters have spoken. We will take a hard look in developing a new spending plan for the June 19 re-vote.”

A second proposition asked for approval for the district to establish a new capital reserve fund with no impact to taxpayers. It was approved.

Julia Muggia Ochs was elected to fill a five-year term on the school board beginning July 1. Christopher Daniello was elected to fill a two-year term on the school board, of an unexpired portion of a five-year term. He will be sworn in Wednesday.

Photo credit: NRED.org.