District voters approved the $23.3 million 2022-23 Canajoharie Central School District budget on May 17 by a vote of 225 to 62.
Residents also voted for a school bus proposition (257 yes and 32 no) and voted to use up to $110,000 from the equipment reserve fund to purchase classroom furniture and a new tractor (230 yes and 58 no). Finally, in proposition four, student member of BOE saw 233 yes votes to 57 no votes.
Two people were elected to the district’s board of education. Keith Baker and Heidi Meka will be on the board.
The voting breakdown was as follows:
For the person to fill the remainder of a five-year term running from July 1, 2022-June 30, 2024, the breakdown was as follows:
■ Keith Baker – Incumbent – 221
■ Stefanie Ackerknecht – 63
For the full five year term running July 1, 2022-June 30, 2027, the vote was as follows:
■ Heidi Meka – Incumbent – 156
■ Christopher Fatta – 71
■ Kirsten Tompson – 56
The $23,341,005 budget represents a 0.93 percent increase over the 2021-22 school year budget. The tax levy increase – 2.94 percent – falls below the state-mandated limit. The budget maintains current staffing levels while also allowing for an increase in job opportunities. A new guidance counselor position (funded through the Federal Stimulus Funds), three-hour middle school monitor, and district-wide technology aide are included in the proposition.
“We extend our deepest gratitude and appreciation to everyone who came out to vote. We are thrilled that our voters see the importance of a properly funded school district for our students,” said Superintendent Dr. Nick Fitzgerald. “Fulfilling the educational, social, and emotional needs of our kids is always our district’s goal. By having a budget meet these needs, we know we will rise to the occasion,”
This year, the budget was balanced without the use of any fund balance or reserve funds, ensuring that the district will have more than adequate funds in the future.
“We know how important it is to carefully budget for unexpected expenses in the future. By leaving our reserve and fund balance untouched this budget season, we are ensuring the monies will be there if we need it in the future.”