Greater Amsterdam School District residents approved the district’s proposed 2026–27 budget of $111,956,616 by a vote of 703 to 291 on Tuesday, May 19. Voters also approved the district’s proposed capital project, technology capital reserve proposition, land sale proposition and Amsterdam Free Library proposition. Voters also elected Rev. Kent A. McHeard, Dr. Nellie A. Bush, and Mike Porter to three-year Board of Education terms and Wendy A. Swezey to the one-year vacancy term. All results will remain unofficial until the Board of Education meeting on May 20.
The approved budget maintains a 0% tax levy increase while continuing to support student learning, school safety, student services and districtwide improvements.
The approved spending plan reflects an increase of $7,275,774, or 6.95%, over the current year and addresses several key cost drivers, including special education placements, health insurance, utilities, transportation and contractual services. Health insurance costs alone are projected to rise by at least 10%.
“This proposed budget reflects our continued commitment to providing students with the support, opportunities and learning environments they need to succeed,” Superintendent Richard Ruberti said. “We remain focused on protecting strong academic programs, supporting student well-being and making thoughtful investments that strengthen our schools while being mindful of our taxpayers.”
The budget maintains all existing staff and student programming districtwide while continuing investments in robotics, STEM and distance learning opportunities, student mental health services, transportation, school safety and classroom improvements.
The spending plan also supports the addition of a deputy high school principal position, two special education teachers, expanded OT, PT and speech services, additional BOCES and private placements, and a second school monitor at each elementary building.
Capital Project Proposition:
Voters also approved a proposed $12 million capital project focused on cafeteria and kitchen renovations, synthetic turf athletic fields and drainage improvements at Amsterdam High School. District officials said the project is expected to have no additional tax impact and would be eligible for approximately 95% state building aid. The vote count was 698 to 281.
Technology Capital Reserve Proposition:
The technology capital reserve proposition, which authorizes the district to use up to $5 million from the existing Technology Capital Reserve Fund for technology and infrastructure improvements, was also approved by voters. The vote count was 750 to 227.
Land Sale Proposition:
Voters also approved the proposition authorizing the sale of district-owned property near Marie Curie Elementary School on Widow Susan Road. District officials said the sale would help reduce long-term maintenance responsibilities while supporting future district planning efforts. The vote count was 588 to 417.
Amsterdam Free Library Proposition:
In addition, voters approved the Amsterdam Free Library proposition for an annual appropriation of $629,500. The library operates independently from the school district. The vote count was 673 to 309
Board of Education Vote:
Erin Smith – 299
Nydia “Titi” Hill – 134
Rev. Kent A. McHeard – 567
Mike Porter – 524
James W. Eagan – 227
Misty Nichols – 177
Dr. Nellie A. Bush – 538
Lauren Colucci – 236
Wendy A. Swezey –349
Juan C. Montalvo Jr. – 333
Budget Vote:
Yes – 703
No – 291
Capital Project Proposition:
Yes – 698
No – 281
Technology Capital Reserve Proposition:
Yes – 750
No – 227
Land Sale Proposition:
Yes – 588
No – 417
Amsterdam Free Library Proposition:
Yes – 673
No – 309
Please note: All results are unofficial until approved at the May 20, Board of Education meeting.