WATERTOWN, New York (WWNY) – The proposed Watertown city school budget is the largest of any North Country school district, surpassing Indian River Central.
Superintendent Dr. Larry Schmiegel unveiled the spending plan Tuesday night.
It totals $112 million. Property taxes are proposed to go up 2.5%. Spending is up $8 million.
Historically, Indian River has had the highest school budget. Its next proposed spending plan is marked at $110 million.
Spending breakdown
Schmiegel’s presentation explained the school plans to spend 20% more on administration, 8% more on programs and teaching, while the capital expenses remain flat.
It also explained costs of health insurance are up 20%, liability insurance is up 20%, and utilities are up 10-15%.
Budget philosophy
The presentation included the line, “We build the most conservative budget the law allows while fully serving every student in this district.”
School budgets are voted on Tuesday, May 19.
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