Northville Central School District’s proposed 2025-26 budget exceeds the state tax cap due to the structural inequity of the New York State Foundation Aid formula, which does not provide the necessary resources that the district needs. Because the formula labels our community “property-wealthy,” we get significantly less state aid than neighboring districts with similar economic challenges and poverty rates receive.
Here’s why: Foundation Aid divides the district’s inflated property values by our modest enrollment. Our “Actual Valuation” of $1.5 million per pupil—well above the state average—does not reflect real household incomes or economic need. For small, rural districts like Northville, land values distort the numbers and shift costs onto local taxpayers.
The budget we put before voters was lean, with no luxuries, just the funds required to run our schools and keep up with costs outside the district’s control. Specifically, we left three vacated positions unfilled and reduced the hours of the BOCES cafeteria manager, utilized $785,000 from reserves and fund balance, and trimmed programs wherever possible without harming students.
Despite these cuts, inadequate state aid forced us over the cap, and voters rejected the plan. The Board of Education and administration are actively pressing state leaders to fix the formula so Northville receives its fair share.
What’s Next
- Budget Workshop: May 22, 6 p.m.
- Updated Budget Brochure: Mailed to all households
- Public Budget Hearing: June 10, 5:30 p.m. (before the regular Board meeting)
- Revote: June 17, 2025, 12 p.m.–8 p.m., Northville CSD Gymnasium
We encourage every resident to stay engaged, review the revised proposal, and join us in advocating for an equitable funding solution.