District to stay within assigned tax levy for 2026-27 school year
On May 19, Fonda-Fultonville residents will vote on a proposed $37,430,408 spending plan for the 2026-27 school year. The proposed budget includes a 2.08% tax levy increase, matching the district’s assigned tax levy “cap.” Budget approval requires a simple majority of votes (50% plus one).
Under the proposal, spending would increase by 3.58% from the current year, driven primarily by rising healthcare and transportation costs. Additionally, state aid funding comes in slightly above last year’s figures with a 2% increase for the upcoming school year. Next year’s budget includes additional employee-based training programs for educational and professional development, a special education teacher in the elementary building, and a teacher assistant at the middle school. The budget also includes funding to add a full-time senior custodian to support district operations.
“Each year, we work to identify areas to increase positive engagement with our students and improve our approach to deliver critical resources for teachers in the classroom,” said Superintendent of Schools Dr. Richard DeMallie. “Next year’s budget is a reflection of how we are committed to our school community and continue our efforts to be recognized as a top-rated district in the region.”
The 2026-27 proposed budget will also include a capital outlay project to provide enhanced security at public entryways in the district. A capital outlay allows the district to receive state aid for a project that maintains a long-term asset, such as the school campus.
In addition to the proposed budget, residents will also vote to lease one bus, purchase one bus with reserves, and elect two members to the Board of Education. Residents will also vote on a $150,000 proposition for the Frothingham Free Public Library in Fonda, NY.