On April 8, the Waterville Central School District Board of Education adopted a proposed $23.2 million budget for the 2025-26 school year.
District residents will have the opportunity to vote on the budget proposal on Tuesday, May 20, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. in the Jr./Sr. High School cafeteria. The proposed budget is thoughtfully developed to support the district’s educational mission and meet the needs of all students – while remaining fiscally responsible to the community. It includes a 2.00% increase in the tax levy, which is within the district’s allowable limit under New York State’s tax cap legislation and consistent with prior year budgets. The tax levy reflects the portion of funding the district seeks to collect through local property taxes to help balance the overall budget.
Key Budget Drivers
Several key factors are influencing the development of the 2025-26 budget. The district anticipates a 2% increase in foundation aid—an essential source of revenue from New York State that supports the programs and services offered to students. However, this increase comes amid rising costs in several critical areas. Health insurance premiums are projected to climb by 12%, the district’s contributions to state retirement systems are expected to rise by 8% and costs previously paid for by pandemic relief funds have now shifted to the general fund.
In addition, contractual salary obligations for both Waterville Teachers Association members and SEIU-represented non-instructional staff are factored into the budget. These increases reflect the district’s ongoing commitment to fairly compensating its workforce while maintaining high standards for instruction and support. The budget also accounts for growing costs related to special education placements and higher liability insurance premiums—both of which are necessary to ensure the district meets its educational, operational, and legal responsibilities.
To help balance the budget while preserving core programs and services, the district will apply a portion of its available fund balance—an approach that reflects responsible financial stewardship and long-term planning.
Strategic Investments and Efficiencies
The 2025-26 proposed budget reflects the district’s balanced approach to meeting current needs while planning for the future. It includes targeted investments and efficiencies that strengthen academics, improve operations, and enhance safety.
Technology and Infrastructure Updates:
- Replacement of the outdated district phone system.
- Removal of low-usage software, with implementation of a new progress monitoring tool and academic support software.
- Upgrade of the transportation department’s digital radio system to improve communication and coordination.
- Replacement of classroom doors at Memorial Park Elementary School through a $100,000 capital outlay project.
Facilities and Equipment:
- Replacement of one district laminator, with a second generously donated by the Village of Waterville.
Staffing and Cost Efficiencies:
- Elimination of one staff position through retirement, allowing the district to reduce costs while maintaining services.
Instructional Resources:
- Launch of a two-year textbook/resources replacement cycle, starting with: Grades 4 and 5 science, Algebra, AP Physics, Nonfiction texts for AP English and AP World History
Curriculum Adjustments:
- Phased discontinuation of Mandarin instruction due to changes in enrollment and instructional needs.
Expanded Academic Opportunities for Greater Access to College-Level Learning:
- Introduction of three new Advanced Placement courses: AP Physics, AP English, and AP World History
Continued Focus on Safety
Safety and security measures remain a cornerstone of the district’s operations. The budget includes funding for replacement football helmets as well as funding to maintain the presence of School Resource Officers (SROs) and Safety Patrol Officers (SPOs), reinforcing a safe and welcoming learning environment for all students and staff.
Together, these initiatives demonstrate the district’s balanced approach to innovation, efficiency, and safety—ensuring Waterville students continue to benefit from a high-quality, future-focused education.
Vote on May 20, 2025
Voters will also elect candidates on May 20 to fill two open seats on the Board of Education. The successful candidates will serve a three-year term, from July 1, 2025, through June 30, 2028. Petitions to run for the Board of Education are due April 21 with 25 signatures of district residents.
To run for office of the Board of Education candidates must file a petition with the Clerk of the District. Each petition must be directed to the Clerk of the District; must be signed by at least 25 qualified voters of the District or 2 percent of the qualified voters who voted at the previous Annual Election, whichever is greater; must state the name and residence of each signer and must state the name and residence of each candidate. Blank petitions may be obtained at the office of the District Clerk, Jennifer Nichols at (315) 841-3816; jnichols@watervillecsd.org or at the Jr/Sr High School, 381 Madison Street, Waterville, New York.
As a reminder, all individuals must provide proof of residency at the vote (driver’s license, piece of mail, etc.). Proof must include a physical address, not a P.O. Box.
Absentee Ballots/Early Voting
Both absentee ballot and early voting are available. You must fill out an application to vote by early voting or absentee ballot. There are separate applications for each, but the application process and deadlines are the same for both. Early mail voting is similar to absentee voting, but requires no reason as to why in-person voting is not possible. The voter must indicate only that they are qualified and wish to vote early by mail.
To obtain an application for either type of ballot, please call District Clerk Jennifer Nichols at (315) 841-3816 or email jnichols@watervillecsd.org.
The completed ballot must be received by 5 p.m. on May 20, 2025 (the day of the vote).
Public Hearing
A public hearing on the proposed 2025-26 budget will be held on May 13 at 6 p.m. in the Bud Dorr Board of Education Room, 381 Madison Street, Waterville, NY 13480.
For additional budget information, please visit the district’s Budget & Finance web page at https://www.watervillecsd.org/departments-services/budget-finance/.