Watervliet City School District residents Tuesday approved a $37.76 million budget for the 2023-24 school year by a margin of 68 percent, or 119 yes votes to 56 no votes.

Two candidates were elected to two open seats on the Board of Education. Mary Beth Whited was re-elected to the school board with 142 votes. Victoria Donnelly was elected to a first term with 137 votes. Both will serve three-year terms on the Board of Education beginning July 1, 2023.

The 2023-24 budget increases overall spending 12 percent compared to the current year’s budget. It maintains all academic programs and instructional services, while providing additional supports and opportunities for students. 

The budget yields a tax levy increase of 2.13 percent, which is below the district’s tax levy limit under New York’s tax “cap” law. As such, a simple majority of voters was needed to approve the budget.

Voters also approved a 5-year lease for one 24-passenger bus for transportation of displaced or homeless students.

We thank the community for your support!