Typeset from the official record — motions and recorded votes are detected automatically. The official copy governs.
DATE: May 11, 2026
5:00 PM-MEET THE BOARD OF EDUCATION CANDIDATES & PUBLIC HEARING FOR BCSD 2026-2027 ANNUAL SCHOOL BUDGET PRESENTATION-TRANSPORTATION CENTER-2810 WEST ENTRY RD, BALDWINSVILLE, NY 13027-LIVE-STREAMED ON BCSD WEBSITE
A. Audio/Video Files Will Appear Here Once Available
2. Meeting Conducted In-Person at Transportation Center-Live-Streamed on BCSD Website
A. In-person Public Attendance Requirements and Live-stream Information
3. 5:00 PM Meet the Board of Education Candidates
A. Board of Education Candidates Running for Election to the BCSD Board of Education-Introduction/Biographies/Photos
4. Approximately 5:15 PM Public Hearing-BCSD Annual Budget (Immediately Following Meet the Candidates)
A. BCSD 2026-2027 Annual School Budget
Superintendent Dr. Joseph DeBarbieri presented the proposed 2026-2027 School Budget. The proposed 2026-2027 budget was developed collaboratively with the Board of Education and is aligned with the district’s mission of “Building, Educating, and Empowering” students through academic, athletic, artistic, and extracurricular opportunities. Dr. DeBarbieri highlighted numerous student accomplishments in academics, athletics, and the visual and performing arts, and thanked the community for its continued support of district programs and facilities.
Dr. DeBarbieri reviewed the budget development process, which begins annually in late summer and includes community meetings, budget advisory committee discussions, and Board of Education work sessions. Dr. DeBarbieri noted that the district remains in a strong financial position due to long-range financial planning and fund balance management practices. The proposed 2026-2027 budget totals just under $153 million, with approximately 75% allocated to the program component supporting instructional services, student support services, technology, extracurricular activities, and instructional materials.
The administrative component was presented as the smallest portion of the budget, with district officials noting that Baldwinsville maintains one of the lowest administrative costs per pupil within the OCM BOCES region. The capital component, representing just over 17% of the budget, reflects ongoing voter-approved capital improvement projects across the district. Administration explained that increases in debt service are largely offset by state building aid and highlighted the district’s annual capital outlay project at Reynolds Elementary School, which will include door replacements and courtyard instructional space enhancements.
Estimated revenues and tax levy information were reviewed, including a proposed tax levy increase at the district’s calculated tax cap of 3.46%. Dr. DeBarbieri noted that finalized tax rates have historically come in below projected levels due to continued commercial and residential growth within the community. The proposed purchase of 14 replacement school buses as part of the district’s long-term transportation replacement plan, noting that the purchase is highly aided by New York State, was reviewed.
Dr. DeBarbieri stated that the budget supports additional staffing needs, particularly in special education and student services, while continuing to expand student opportunities. The public was informed that if the budget were not approved, the Board of Education could either present the same budget again, propose a reduced budget, or adopt a contingent budget requiring approximately $2.4 million in reductions. Information regarding the three Board of Education seats up for election and details for the May 19 budget vote were also shared. The hearing concluded with appreciation expressed to the community for its continued support of district students and programs.
Respectfully submitted
Tiffany E. Turner
Clerk of the District
* AI was used to summarize meeting minutes.