The Herricks school district unanimously voted to adopt the proposed district budget of $149,312,913 for the 2026/2027 school year. The budget, which is a $4,769,703 increase from the 2025/2026 school year, will boost the tax levy by 2.12%
“This is below the levy limit. We could have gone up to 2.3%,” said Superintendent Dr. Tony Sinanis, who helped present the budget to the board.
Assistant Superintendent for Business Lisa Rutkoske said the budget increase is largely attributed to contractual obligations for staff, the special education program, transportation and benefits.
“We are not alone. These are a pretty common theme across districts in Long Island and in this state,” said Rutkoske, who also presented the budget to the board.
Rutkoske said they are primarily supported by the tax levy, with homeowners playing a major part in the financial support system for the district. Rutkoske said the board is looking for avenues of support beyond the tax levy.
“We are always conscious of trying to find that right balance.”
Rutkoske said the district is expecting to receive an 8% increase in state aid, with $30,164,346 coming in from the governor’s budget.
“We are fortunate – not all districts receive this level of state aid,” Rutkoske said.
She noted that the governor’s budget is still not approvedas lawmakers extended the budget approval date two weeks past its original deadline.
Community members will have a chance to cast their vote May 19 at the budget vote and trustee election.
Source: LI Press
