My Turn Dr. Raymond Bryant Warwick schools chief outlines 2013-14 budget time line

The federal government isn’t alone in trying to avert a “fiscal cliff.” Our own school district, like many school districts across New York State, is facing a financial cliff as well.

Unless changes are made, the school district will face a budget gap of between $2.4 million and $3 million for 2013-14.

We are looking at options that will help pull us back into financial stability. At the Board of Education meeting on Monday, Jan. 14 (7 p.m. at the Dorothy C. Wilson Education Center), I will give my Superintendent’s Report on the district’s financial situation. All are welcome.

Additionally, a community forum will be held Monday, Jan. 28, from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Dorothy C. Wilson Education Center to present an overview of the problem and review potential plans and options with the public.

We don’t want to surprise or shock anyone. We want to work with community members – show them what the problem looks like, and get input on solving the problem.

There are several reasons for the budget gaps that have recently plagued the district.

State and federal aid has been decreasing over the past five years, as has other revenue the school district counts on. For example, interest income budgeted at $550,000 just a few years ago is now down to $55,000.

Finally, the district’s main source of revenue – real property taxes – is limited due to the new tax levy “cap” which limits the amount of tax schools can collect from year to year.

On the expenses side, 70 to 75 percent of our budget goes to salary and benefits. These contractual expenses are rising faster than the revenues that support them. Retirement costs alone are expected to grow $1.5 million next year.

At the Community Forum on Jan. 28, guest presenters from Warwick’s business community will give their professional perspectives about the problem after having had the opportunity to study the district’s financial situation.

Also presenting will be demographer Joan Townley from the Office of School Planning and Research of Western Suffolk BOCES, who has analyzed enrollment in our district and made projections for future enrollment.

Various combinations of increased revenue and expense cuts will be presented, without detailing what positions or programs would be cut. Participants will break into small groups to discuss community priorities in choosing the best path to sustain the district’s finances and maintain educational program.

The goal is not to scare taxpayers, but to plan ahead to prevent a crisis.

Community members are urged to participate in the Forum on Jan. 28, and may go to the district’s Web site (http://www.warwickvalleyschools.com) to sign up to participate.

Dr. Raymond Bryant is the Warwick Valley School District’s superintendent of schools.