Menands residents approved on Tuesday a $12.9 million budget for the 2025-2026 school year.
Voters also approved two separate propositions: a $6.67 million Capital Project and the transfer of the village library property to the Library Board of Trustees.
Finally, voters approved the $306,423 annual village library budget by a vote of 153 to 21 and elected Jason Hoffman to a four-year term on the Board of Education and incumbent Patrick Semexant to fill-out the remainder of an unexpired term on the board. Hoffman received 144 votes and Semexant received 143 votes to serve until expires on June 30, 2026.
District officials thanked residents for their continued support.
“We appreciate the enthusiasm and support of our residents,” said Superintendent Jennifer Cannavo.
Budget vote
By a 148 to 28 vote, residents approved the 2025-26 school budget—which represents a $521,553 or 4.19%—increase in spending. The increase is offset by anticipated revenue from property taxes, state aid, interest earnings, tuition from non-resident students and the district’s fund balance.
The tax levy will increase 4.14% under the budget.
Capital Project
Village residents voted 144 to 32 to approve the $6.67 million Capital Project. The project will provide additional classrooms to address fluctuations in student enrollment and educational mandates. A total of 3,585 square feet of new space will be added to expand educational opportunities for students, Cannavo said. The project will also address long-term issues within the school, including aging infrastructure.
The project will have a minimal impact on taxpayers, with a yearly tax increase forecast of $16 for seniors with a STAR tax exemption; $21 for all property owners with a STAR exemption; and $24 for those without the exemption. The estimate is based on a $250,000 assessed property value.
Library transfer
Residents voted 158 to 18 to allow the transfer of ownership of the Menands Public Library to the library Board of Trustees.
Under an agreement reached earlier this year, the library Board of Trustees will pay $1 and assume ownership of the building, giving the directors more autonomy in making improvements and updates without the regulatory hurdles associated with being owned by a school district.
Cannavo said the transfer is essentially a paperwork deal, as there will be no impact on the public’s use of the library, and the Board of Trustees and the Menands School will continue to have a working relationship.