Norwich City School District presents budget with 0% tax increase. Superintendent Scott Ryan said the proposed budget calls for no increase in school taxes. (ES File photo)

NORWICH – Despite rising costs, the Norwich City School District is proposing a budget that calls for no increase in school taxes.

The total proposed 2026-27 budget is $51,743,168. The Norwich School District has a property tax cap of 0.23 percent, but this year they plan to keep school taxes at their current level.

School districts across New York State are dealing with increased costs this year and Norwich is no different.

According to Norwich Schools Superintendent Scott Ryan, spending was up in many areas.

“Like many districts across the state, Norwich has experienced rising costs in key areas. Most notably, we are budgeting for over a $1 million increase in health insurance expenses, along with significantly increased utility costs. We have also seen continued pressure in special education-related expenses, all of which have been accounted for in our planning,” Ryan explained.

He said that despite those factors, the district will not be cutting staff or programming this year.

“We asked departments to reduce spending on materials and supplies and tightened budgets wherever possible to preserve the educational experience for our students,” he said.

Ryan explained additional components of the 2026-27 budget include debt service for a previous capital improvement project, the district’s share of DCMO Books capital expenses, a $100,000 capital outlay project for 2026-27, and a $35,000 safety and security project.

While the Norwich School Board is ready to present the budget to the public, Ryan cautioned that the New York State Budget is still not finalized and therefore state aid numbers might change.

“Current projections are based on the governor’s executive proposal released on January 20, and adjustments may be necessary once final state aid figures are confirmed,” he said.

During the budget vote, voters will also be asked to decide on two propositions.

Proposition #2 will be for the sale of school property on Plymouth Street at Flanagan Field.

“This site has not been used for organized youth sports in over a decade. In contrast, the district’s most recent capital project has resulted in the development of multiple new and improved athletic playing surfaces that are actively used and available for community access,” Ryan said. I

If approved, Greater Opportunities of Broome and Chenango County, Inc. plan to build a $9 million multi-unit apartment complex for low-income housing.

“The proposed sale reflects a thoughtful effort to align district assets with current use, reduce long-term maintenance obligations, and ensure that our facilities are both efficient and responsive to community needs,” he said.

While Greater Opportunities for Broome and Chenango already won the bid, the sale of the property is not finalized until voters decide on the proposition.

“As with all such decisions, final approval rests with the voters,” Ryan said.

An additional proposition is for a capital reserve fund. The fund would allow the district to set aside money for future capital improvement projects.

“As the District continues to plan for the centralization of programs and facilities, there is a need for thoughtful, long-term planning to ensure the effective maintenance of our buildings and grounds. Establishing this reserve is a responsible step in that process,” Ryan explained. Even with the capital reserve fund, voters still get a say in future projects. “It is important to note that any future use of these funds will still require voter approval, ensuring continued transparency and community oversight,” Ryan said.

The Norwich School District will hold a public hearing on the budget on May 6. The budget vote will be held May 19 from 11a.m. to 8 p.m.