The Spencer-Van Etten Central School District Board of Education reviewed the 2026-27 preliminary budget during its second budget presentation on Feb. 12. The full presentation is available on the district website at https://www.svecsd.org/page/s-ve-budget-development.
District officials stated that the proposal remains preliminary and may change as additional state information becomes available. The finalized New York State budget is expected by April 1. The district’s tax cap calculation will be finalized by the March 1 deadline.
Revenue Update
The January state aid run reflects a 1.12% increase in Foundation Aid and an overall projected state aid increase of approximately 1.5%.
The maximum allowable tax levy limit is currently projected at 2.14%, pending final confirmation.
Officials also reviewed reserve balances and stated that updates regarding reserves and long-term planning will continue to be shared on the district’s Budget Development webpage. The district reported that it is not in fiscal stress.
Expenditure Overview
Preliminary expenditure projections reflect several known cost drivers:
Active employees Health insurance costs are projected to increase by approximately 9.75%; however, our overall health insurance costs are projected to increase by approximately 26% due to an increase in retiree insurance costs.
Utility costs are projected to increase by approximately 30%.
Retirement system contribution rates remain variable.
BOCES costs are still being developed and will be presented at the March meeting.
To address rising utility costs, the district is reviewing an energy management efficiency study. The study aligns with the Building Condition Survey and long-range facilities planning. The assessment would be covered through projected energy savings.
Transportation Department
The Transportation Department budget reflects operational adjustments following a route efficiency review.
The district reduced routes from 14 to 12. As a result, driver staffing decreased and transportation salaries are projected to decline year over year. The department budget reflects a 6.85% decrease overall.
District officials also reviewed long-term fleet planning and future bus propositions. This year, the proposed bus proposition includes the purchase of one full-size bus and one suburban vehicle to maintain the district’s replacement cycle.
The district continues to evaluate the state’s zero-emission bus requirement, which must be fully implemented by 2035, and will submit a waiver extension in July of 2026.
Transportation planning remains connected to overall operational efficiency and cost management.
Facilities Department
The Facilities Department budget reflects a projected 15.14% increase.
The increase is driven primarily by utility costs and equipment needs. Utility expenses alone are projected to rise approximately 30%. The budget includes an equipment allocation to support building operations.
Current staffing includes custodial, maintenance and supervisory personnel. One maintenance mechanic position is currently posted.
Facilities planning continues to align with the district’s Building Condition Survey and long-range facilities planning.
Technology Department
The Technology Department budget reflects a projected decrease of 14.95%.
BOCES technology costs are listed as preliminary. For planning purposes, the district is using an estimated BOCES figure and will continue to update as BOCES finalizes their budget.
Technology staffing includes one coordinator and two specialists. State-aided hardware and software allocations remain largely consistent year over year.
Budget Development Process
District officials emphasized that transparency remains a priority throughout the budget process. Community members are encouraged to monitor the district website and social media platforms for updates as budget development continues.