Board Discusses Expected May 5 Budget Adoption Amidst Uncertain Economic Landscape
April 24, 2020 -- At Tuesday's Board of Education meeting, the Board and Administration discussed the impact that school closure during the Coronavirus period has had on the current year budget (2019-2020), as well as projected impacts of the current economy on the 2020-2021 budget.
Although the 2020-2021 budget development process began well before the pandemic, new economic uncertainties and potential scenarios resulting from the the public health crisis have been considered - including the District's anticipated loss in revenues (State Aid, county sales tax, interest income); the financial toll of this crisis on many of our district's families, and the potential budgetary implications of providing additional student support for increased student needs once school reopens.
No additional changes were proposed to the 2020-2021 Superintendent's Recommended Budget from April 14th. Several potential revenue shortfall scenarios were outlined. Dr. Shaps said that in order to adjust for revenue loss, the District could potentially face mid-year budget cuts. While he is hoping cuts will not be required, maintaining the quality of teaching and learning and preserving the classroom experience will be prioritized.
Dr. Shaps and Assistant Superintendent for Business & Operations Sylvia Fassler-Wallach restated the need to maintain fiscal stability and be mindful of the impact on taxpayers. "This budget has gone through several iterations, with $1.4 million in reductions since it was first presented on March 3, 2020," Dr. Shaps said.
Emphasis was placed on the importance of passing a budget that allows for flexibility. "We can always reduce our budget, but cannot increase the amount the voters have authorized," Ms. Wallach said.
The Board indicated it expects to adopt the Superintendent's Recommended budget on May 5th. As stated previously, the Governor's Executive Order delayed the community vote for all districts in NY to June 1 or beyond. For all budget-related information and presentations, visit the Mamaroneck School District website.