WCS Revenue Picture Waits On State Budget

Without a state budget passed as of their meeting last week, the Waterville Board of Education held off some decisions in the 2025-26 budget.

Waterville Central School Superintendent Dr. Jennifer Spring said the projected revenue picture still contained uncertainties on state aid.

The state Legislature has promised a 3 percent increase in Foundation Aid, but that’s not assured until the state budget is passed.

Board members did approve the $23,127,669 spending plan.

If state aid does increase, Waterville will receive an additional $205,000 to $300,000.

Special Education revenue was also promised to increase, which for WCS would mean an additional $100,000 or more.

What the District does know is that the cost of health insurance for active and retired employees and retirement benefits will all go up significantly.

Board member Pete Casatelli pointed out that those expenses take up 20 percent of the District’s $23 million budget for next year.

Under contracts with the District’s unions, salaries will go up, and spending for Special Education programs is projected at $2.2 million.

The property tax levy will go up 2 percent, raising another $121,082 among all property owners. Residents will vote May 20 on the budget and two ...