Pleasantville To Vote On School Budget, Capital Projects

PLEASANTVILLE, NY — Voters in the Pleasantville school district will consider a construction bond for security and other projects in district buildings, in addition to the 2019-20 budget proposal when they go to the polls May 21.

The proposed spending package is $51,066,290, up 2.342% from the current year. The tax levy increase is 2.34 percent, with an estimated tax rate increase of 0.63%.

Among the budget highlights: a sixth second-grade section and teacher will be added at the Bedford Road School.

The $8.9 million bond proposal is expected to be budget neutral, because the new debt will replace expiring bonds. The impact on taxpayers will be offset by the retirement of two bonds – 1995 and 2002 – that were refinanced in 2011.

A top priority in the capital project is security, and the project includes expanding the main entrances in all three schools to create more secure lobbies with separate greeter windows, and replacing older doors and locking systems at the middle school with Shelter in Place security hardware.

In addition, the bonds would pay to:

• replace the computer-based BMS (Building Management System) that controls all HVAC systems at BRS and has outlived its technological life;
• upgrade BRS HVAC system with dehumidification controls for improved air handling;
• recoat the BRS metal roof to prevent/minimize rust and extend its usable life;
• renovate and upgrade the BRS library and computer room;
• upgrade the electrical service at the MS to support all new technology and future air handling needs and expand the electrical panels in the 1972 addition at PHS;
• remove asbestos in older classroom floors and hallways at the MS;
• replace and upgrade key older windows at MS and PHS;
• repair damaged/rotted portions of the PHS wood cupola, an historical facility centerpiece;
• replace and upgrade the 1929 cast iron roof drains in the PHS auditorium roof and replace the EPDM roof;
• remove asbestos flooring in the PHS auditorium;
• expand and upgrade the MS OT/PT room;
• renovate District tennis courts to address water infiltration problems and cracks, replace fencing, and add access control system for community use;
• regrade, irrigate, and add top soil to the grass field adjacent to Middle School Drive.

In addition to the fiscal propositions, also on the ballot is one candidate for one seat on the Board of Education: Shane McGaffey, who is seeking a fourth term.

Polls will be open from 6:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. in the Middle School Multipurpose Room.