The 2019-2020 draft budget for Williamsville Central schools looks to stay below the state tax cap and would result in a tax rate increase of 2.35 percent for Town of Amherst residents. Thomas Maturski, assistant superintendent for finance and management services, presented the draft plan to the school board during a budget work session March 26.

According to Mr. Maturski, the estimated tax rate is based on 2018 property assessments and equalization rates for Amherst. For a home assessed at $150,000, with the basic STAR subsidy applied, the 2019 school tax increase would be $46.46. However, the tax rate is likely to be lower when the town finalizes its property assessments for 2019, which normally occurs in July. 

In addition to the budget, the May 21 ballot will include a second proposition asking voters to approve the establishment of a new capital reserve fund. Under state law, school districts must get voter approval to create a reserve fund. The districts plans to use the 2019 capital reserve to address future facility needs and school improvements. There is no tax impact associated with this proposition. 

View the board's discussion about the budget by watching the meeting video on the district's YouTube channel or on the BoardDocs platform. For a brief recap of the meeting, read the School Board Notes.