budget

“The unfortunate reality…is that some very good, inspiring, outstanding educators have got caught in the crosshairs, and for that I’m truly sorry,” said Gilbert. Noting the many “tough” decisions that had to be made, the BOE passed the resolution by an 8-1 vote.

“I see your uncomfortable faces, and you should be uncomfortable, because this is embarrassing,” said CHS student Izzy Sandoval to BOE members.

Students, parents and community members spoke passionately for and against the turfing of Ritzer Field. The Board of School Estimate will vote on the entire proposal on February 13.

“Your honeymoon is over now,” Dafis said to Township Administrator Patrick Wherry. “That’s correct,” Wherry replied. 

“We started this process all the way back in January. We are at the point where we can finally see a finish line,” said the CFO. “We’re about to start our 2024 budget preparations,” joked Mayor Dean Dafis. 

“The good news is that we’re still committed to holding our tax rate increase to 3.5%, so none of the important pieces of the budget have changed,” said Township Administrator Patrick Wherry.

Mayor Dafis has called the budget “fiscally responsible” and said it prepares the township for challenges in the years ahead.

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The district is facing the “unexpected” shortfall due to rises in transportation, special education and more. However, by halting all discretionary spending and dipping into next year’s fund balance, the administration is “confident” it can cover the shortfall, said Supt. Dr. Ronald Taylor.

Maplewood municipal leaders said that a precipitous increase in the cost of state employee health benefits plans could mean as much as a 6.9% tax rate increase for residents, far beyond the state-mandated 2% tax levy cap.