Archive: News

Considering the controversy surrounding the $22 million Lansing Schools 2007-2008 budget it was surprising that only a handful of people showed up for the budget hearing last Thursday.  But problems publicizing the event along with a budget mailing that was delayed at the printer meant that many Lansing taxpayers didn't realize the hearing was scheduled.


Tom Jones and David Dittman criticized the way budgets are presented, saying that it is hard for the public to understand what they are voting for.  But school officials noted that the presentation was about the same as it has been in past years.  Jones also took issue with the board's using money from reserve funds to keep the tax rise lower.  While this budget is only 3.4% more than last year's total, the tax levy will be 7.4% higher than last year.


Superintendent Mark Lewis explained that personnel costs will be $240,659 higher this year, fringe benefits will rise $117,045, BOCES costs go up $398,274.  With some costs going down the proposed budget will be $727,463 higher than last year.

Because the proposed budget rises lower than the cap in a budget that would be imposed by the State if it is voted down, taxpayers could pay more if they defeat the budget than they would if they pass it.


Lewis also presented his annual report, his second since joining the district nearly a year and a half ago.  (Click Here for the full text of his report)


School Board members vowed to set time aside in last night's regular Board Of Education meeting for the public to learn about and respond to the budget.  Voters will go to the polls next Tuesday from 7am to 9pm at the Lansing Middle School Auditorium  to vote on the budget, ant elect two school board members, as well as to vote on whether to fund the Lansing Community Library Center.

----
v3i18