PINE PLAINS — Voters will decide June 16 whether to approve a revised Pine Plains Central School District budget after the district's original spending plan fell short of the supermajority needed for passage last month.
The Board of Education reviewed the modified proposal during its June 9 meeting ahead of Tuesday's vote. Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. at Stissing Mountain Jr./Sr. High School.
The revised budget totals $40,488,222 and includes an additional $290,569 in reductions, bringing spending below the state tax-cap threshold and lowering the approval requirement from 60% to a simple majority.
The cuts would eliminate three positions: a head bus driver, a typist and a nurse.
The district's original budget received 52% voter approval in May, short of the 60% supermajority required because it exceeded the state's allowable tax levy limit.
If voters reject the revised budget, the district would be required to adopt a contingency budget with an additional $945,789 in reductions. District officials have said those cuts would significantly affect extracurricular activities, athletics and field-trip transportation, and would cancel the annual Ashokan trip.
A contingency budget would also require additional staffing reductions. Board members said they remain hopeful the revised proposal will pass and opted to wait until after the vote to determine what further cuts might be necessary.
Classic styles, bold colors, and creative concerts make up the “Imaginary Concerts” line at Peggy Mercury.Provided
Shirts from Peggy Mercury’s first fashion line, “Imaginary Concerts,” hang on display.Provided
