SAYVILLE: Pass the over-cap budget & lose $875 property tax rebates

This year, Sayville is one of only five Long Island school districts to present a cap-piercing budget of 2.99% - except the board neglected to inform residents that passing this budget would result in a loss of the NEW* property tax rebates averaging $875. Suddenly, that 2.99% budget increase is MUCH larger. 

After angry residents spoke out at the May 12th budget meeting, the board finally decided disclosure was best. Three days ago, superintendent Dr. Schartner sent out a letter which sharply under-reported the amount of the rebates, at only $90 for the '14-'15 school year. The one reason why the board/administration wanted to pierce the cap: High salary increases despite the stagnant economy, stagnant private-sector wages, property values, interest income and state funding. The May 18th edition of Newsday (p.G24) reported that Sayville teachers will get raises and step increases totaling 4.25 percent. As do many of us, administrators and teachers deserve raises, but they needed to wait until the economy recovers.

*NEW state property tax rebates are tied to home reassessments after super storm 'Sandy'. The average rebate of $875 is based on homes with property taxes of $10K.