Cumberland-North Yarmouth School District Proposes $57.9M Budget

Cumberland and North Yarmouth’s school district has proposed a budget of $57.9 million for the upcoming fiscal year, reflecting an increase of $4.1 million, or 7.63%, from the current year. During a presentation at the board of directors meeting on March 5, 2024, Superintendent Jeff Porter emphasized that the budget represents the community’s priorities and aspirations for its youngest members.

The school board is scheduled to review the proposed budget on March 19, 2024, with a vote on adoption anticipated on April 15, 2024. The final approval from voters in both towns will come through a budget validation referendum on June 9, 2024.

Key Factors Driving the Budget Increase

Approximately 80% of the proposed budget is allocated to district staff. Superintendent Porter noted that nearly $3 million of the budget increase will address rising health insurance costs, although the district has not yet determined the exact increase for the next year. Current estimates are based on the highest anticipated costs.

A significant contributor to this budget increase is the One Campus Project, which adds debt service to the annual budget for the first time. This project accounts for an additional $666,000 in costs, which includes debt service and a land purchase.

Enrollment growth is another major factor influencing the budget. The district plans to allocate resources for moving costs associated with the new schools, hire two full-time teachers, add part-time positions, and create a new assistant principal role. Additionally, $60,000 has been set aside for new desks and chairs. In contrast to the statewide trend of declining enrollment, $578,000 in the proposed budget is dedicated to accommodating an increasing number of students.

Other budget adjustments include an additional $231,000 for instructional support, which covers special education and pre-kindergarten services, as well as $172,000 for operational expenses, including van leases, Title IX upgrades, and funding for two bus monitors.

Potential Impact on Tax Rates

Both North Yarmouth and Cumberland are currently undergoing property revaluations, making it difficult to ascertain the exact change in tax rates until new property values are established. Superintendent Porter highlighted the importance of considering these revaluations in budget discussions, stating, “Both town managers have said please, please, please keep that in mind.”

Based on current estimates, the proposed budget may lead to a tax rate increase of 7.54% in Cumberland. Homeowners could see an increase of $190 in taxes for every $100,000 of assessed property value, compared to last year’s increase of 3.9%. In North Yarmouth, the expected rise is 8.2%, resulting in an additional $170 in taxes for every $100,000 of assessed value, up from last year’s 3.1% increase.

As Superintendent Porter reiterated, these figures represent a worst-case scenario. He expressed hope for a lower tax impact once the revaluations are finalized, emphasizing the importance of clarity for the community.