On Tuesday, May 19, Harrisville Central School District voters will decide on a $11,494,928 proposed spending plan for the 2026-27 school year. The proposed budget would fund all existing programs and services for students, and keep current staffing levels steady.
“Fiscal responsibility has guided this process from the start,” said Superintendent Rob Finster. “This proposed budget reflects careful planning and collaboration to manage rising costs while maintaining services our students and families rely on.”
The budget proposal calls for a spending reduction of $36,816, or 0.32% compared to the current year’s budget. This decrease can be attributed to declining student enrollment and anticipated savings due to health insurance policy adjustments.
Although the overall spending plan has decreased, district leaders are proposing a tax levy increase of $184,000, or 3.99%, which remains within the district’s allowable tax levy “cap” of 4.33%. As the district contends with a reduction in aid from New York State, combined with rising contractual and operational costs, this proposed tax levy increase is necessary to keep programs and staffing intact.
“This budget would keep the district on sound footing while helping us to prepare for potential challenges in the years ahead,” added Finster. “With this proposal, we can keep staffing levels secure, which ensures students receive the individualized attention that helps them thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.”
While final assessment figures are not available until August, it is projected that homeowners with an assessment of $100,000 would see their annual taxes increase by approximately $30, without STAR exemption.
In addition to voting on the budget proposal, residents will elect one member to the board of education and vote on a $337,700 proposition to purchase two, 66-passenger diesel school buses.
Residents will also decide on a proposition to increase the annual tax collected by the district for the Harrisville Free Library by $7,000 for a total of $92,000 for general support and maintenance. Harrisville Central School District does not endorse, control or recommend any aspect of how the library spends money as it is a separate legal entity.
Polls will be open on May 19 from 1 to 8 p.m. in the Harrisville Central School Library, 14371 Pirate Lane, Harrisville. Residents are also encouraged to attend the district’s annual public hearing on Monday, May 11, at 5:30 p.m. in the Harrisville Central School Library.
More information about the 2026-27 proposed budget is also available on the Budget & Finance page of the school district website, or by calling the District Office at (315) 543-2707.