January 19, 2012

The North Shore School District held a Town Meeting to review the School Boards draft budget proposal in the middle school cafeteria at 8PM today. Superintendent Melnick stated that the draft budget shows a 3.46% increase on a 92 millon dollar annual budget, but that he intends to work with the Board to reduce this amount to 1.85%. He stated he would not put forth a vote for override on the 2% cap this year, but he may reach for an override next year (2013).

The Glenwood Landing LIPA power plant issue was discussed. When the power plant is decommissioned, there will be a loss of approximately 15 million dollars in tax revenue, which represents 17% of the school budget. Both the Superintendent and other Board members stated that the closing of the power plant would not affect their budget, even though property owners will have significant tax increases.

The SCPOC will study the issue of how the plant closing will affect taxpayers and the school budget, and what impact the 2% cap has in this situation.

For the 2012-2013 year, the North Shore School District is projected to have a 2825 students, with an average cost (based on the draft budget) of $32,543 per student per annum. The district ranks in the top 25% for spending per public school student on Long Island.