Local school district superintendents back debt ceiling amendment.
Small City School Districts Seek to Lift Debt Ceiling in New York State
Two superintendents from small city school districts in Orange County, New York, are advocating for a state ballot measure that would raise their debt ceiling to match that of other districts in the state. Currently, small city school districts are subject to a five percent debt ceiling under the state Constitution, while most other districts can borrow up to ten percent of the districtwide value of taxable real properties.
The proposed measure aims to remove the constitutional limit on small city school district debts, allowing them to undertake necessary improvement projects more efficiently.
“This change would level the playing field for small city schools, enabling them to have the same borrowing guidelines as larger districts,” said Amy Creeden, Superintendent of the Enlarged City School District of Middletown. She emphasized that a “yes” vote on the ballot measure would not result in any tax increases for residents.
John Bell, Superintendent of the Port Jervis City School District, echoed Creeden’s sentiments, stating that the measure is about fairness and ensuring that all districts operate under the same rules. He emphasized that schools are not eager to borrow more money, but rather seeking equal opportunities.
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Robert Breidenstein, executive director of the Small City School District Association, emphasized that lifting the debt ceiling does not eliminate responsible fiscal planning. Instead, it provides small city school districts with the same platform as other districts in the state.
There are currently 57 small city school districts in New York, with a total enrollment of approximately 200,000 students. Orange County alone has three such districts in the Port Jervis, Middletown, and Newburgh areas.
The process of amending the state Constitution to lift the debt ceiling is complex, requiring consecutive approvals from the state legislature. However, this time around, small city school districts have received support from advocacy groups, the state legislature, and the executive branch, presenting a unique opportunity to rectify the disparities.
In addition to the school district measure, another state ballot measure this fall will extend the exemption of sewage facility financing from debt limit considerations for local municipalities for another ten years.
What measures are in place to ensure responsible spending and financial oversight by small city school districts if the debt ceiling is lifted?
Ame financial guidelines. “Small city school districts should not be penalized simply because they are smaller in size. By lifting the debt ceiling, we can provide our students with better facilities and resources, ultimately improving their educational experience,” Bell said.
The small city school districts in Orange County have been battling with financial constraints for years. With limited borrowing capacity, these districts have struggled to undertake necessary infrastructure projects and improvements. This has resulted in outdated facilities and limited resources for the students.
The proposed measure would allow small city school districts to borrow up to ten percent of the districtwide value of taxable real properties, giving them more flexibility in addressing their infrastructure needs. This would not only benefit the students but also the overall community, as improved school facilities often attract families and businesses to an area.
Opponents of the measure argue that lifting the debt ceiling could lead to excessive borrowing and irresponsible spending by small city school districts. However, Creeden and Bell both emphasize that strict financial oversight and accountability measures would still be in place to prevent such situations.
The ballot measure will be included on the statewide election in November. If approved by a majority vote, it would bring much-needed relief and equal opportunities to small city school districts in Orange County and across New York State. The measure is supported by various education advocacy groups and parent associations, who believe that every student deserves an equal chance at success.
In addition to the proposed measure, small city school districts are also advocating for increased state funding to support their infrastructure needs. While raising the debt ceiling would provide them with more borrowing capacity, increased funding would ensure that these districts have the necessary resources to address their immediate concerns without relying solely on borrowing.
As the discussion around the measure continues, it is evident that small city school districts are determined to overcome their financial challenges and provide the best education possible for their students. By seeking to lift the debt ceiling, these districts are taking a crucial step towards improving their infrastructure and leveling the playing field with their larger counterparts.
Ultimately, it is the students who will benefit from this measure, as they will have access to better facilities and enhanced educational opportunities. The November election will be a defining moment for small city school districts in New York State, as they strive to secure a brighter future for their students and communities.
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