SOUTH PORTLAND — Turnout was light, but residents on Thursday, May 6, approved a $41.6 million school budget for the fiscal year that begins July 1.
The budget, which eliminates 25 jobs, was approved 844-497 and is expected to increase the school share of the local tax rate by 11 cents, or 1.1 percent. The $506,000 in additional tax revenue will be used to fund a reserve account for future high school renovations.
Voters also voted overwhelming in support of the school budget validation process, which allows residents to have the final say on school spending. The 887-449 vote renews the budget referendum process for another three years.
Only 1,341 of the city’s 18,549 registered voters cast ballots, a 7 percent turnout.
Last year, 2,068 voters participated in the referendum, an 11 percent turnout.
Randy Billings can be reached at 781-3661 ext. 100 or rbillings@theforecater.net
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