Via Community News Service, a University of Vermont journalism internship, on assignment for the Hinesburg Citizen
Taxes versus student needs took center stage as Hinesburg residents voted on the proposed new budget for Champlain Valley School District.
The district projects an average 3.8% decrease in property taxes for residents if the budget is passed. Many in Hinesburg remain skeptical, as last year, property taxes for schools increased by approximately 20%.
“The thing that stood out to me was last year, our taxes were astronomically raised in the town of Hinesburg,” said Eileen Kelly, who said she voted yes on the school budget.
“This year it’s projected to go down, so I’m hopeful that that will stay. Skeptical, but hopeful,” Kelly said.
Bill Baker, a former member of the school board, doubts this minor adjustment will adequately address the district’s priorities. He voted against the budget proposal.
“We’re spending more on less students with poorer outcomes,” Baker said.
Baker believes the budget has strayed from what should be its core priorities.
“I think the leadership of the schools has lost a focus on what the primary rule of the school is,” he said, which he characterized as the basics: math, science, reading, writing and history.
Vicky Gelber voted in favor of the budget increase. She described her decision as “painful because our taxes are so crazy high.”
Still, she felt it was important to support the school.
“The school board did what they could to moderate the increases as much as possible,” she said.
Other residents were less concerned about spending and believe the budget will allow the Champlain Valley School District to keep providing quality education. According to U.S. News, the school ranks second in the state.
“Nobody does what CVU does,” said Sue Johnson. “They’ll offer any class. If somebody wants to have a class, only if there’s a couple of people, they make a club and they support it.”
Some residents supported the budget in response to possible Trump administration budget cuts to the Department of Education. Kathleen Bruce believes the proposed budget will keep the school “afloat.”
“We’re going to need all the help we can get,” Bruce said.
Janice Nadwonry voted yes on the budget as well and summed up the balance many are seeking to strike.
“I want the town to spend its money wisely and provide every child with a thorough and complete preparation for life.”
Correction: A previous version of this story incorrectly stated Bill Baker’s status on the school board. He is a former member.