Vernon schools unveil 2005-2006 budget

VERNON-After tonight's 7:30 session, the Vernon Township Board of education has one final public hearing scheduled for the same time next Thursday, March 3, at Lounsberry Hollow Middle School on the proposed 2005-2006 budget. The $59-million spending plan calls for a tax increase of $40 per year increase on a house assessed at $200,000. Local taxpayers would fund $32 million of the budget, with state aid making up the remainder. The budget calls for no cuts in programs and three additions: Italian language courses in the high school, a K-1 basic skills teacher and a new administrative position - director of pupil personnel services. A nearly $900,000 capital budget includes money for repair and replacement of furnaces and roofs. The board said that the budget anticipates a three-percent increase in state aid. The cost per pupil is $9,586, an increase of $209 over the current year's per-pupil cost, which, the board said, was the 31st lowest in New Jersey. The budget will be finalized after the final hearing. It is within all state regulations governing allowable increases. The public vote on the budget is April 20. Polls will be open from 2-9 p.m.