Franklin Square school district

VOTING

8 a.m. to 9 p.m. at John Street School, Polk Street School and Washington Street School.

THE BUDGET

The Franklin Square district proposed a $36,728,580 budget, which is a 1.3 percent increase from the previous year's $36,255,700. The local tax levy would increase 1.71 percent, from $26,847,495 to $27,307,279.

This increase equals the state's tax-cap limit of 1.71 percent, so a simple majority vote is needed to approve the budget. School taxes on the average single-family home would increase 1.71 percent, from $3,107.15 to $3,160.15.

The district is still in contract negotiations for teacher salaries. There are no staffing reductions planned, but the district is hiring more behavioral support staff and expanding the STEM program.

Voters also will be asked to decide one proposition, to increase the minimum mileage eligibility. The distance would remain the same for students in kindergarten through third grade, but would be reduced from one mile to a half-mile for children in fourth through sixth grade. There is no cost tied to the referendum.

District website:

franklinsquare.k12.ny.us

THE CANDIDATES

Incumbent Helen Hoffman is running unopposed. Joseph Lewinger is running unopposed to fill the seat of Pam Margaroli, who is not seeking re-election. Terms are three years.