By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 29 August 2016 at 4:27 pm
ALBION – The Orleans County Planning Board has backed a proposed six-month moratorium on applications for industrial solar energy generation facilities in two towns.
Gaines and Kendall want time to update their zoning ordinances for large-scale solar projects, those encompassing more than a half-acre of land. The moratorium does not apply to solar projects for homes.
The Planning Board also suggested the towns allow solar projects at farms because the NYS Department of Agriculture and Markets considers solar that does not exceed 110 percent of a farm’s electrical needs to be on-farm equipment, which is allowable in an agricultural district.
In other action, the Planning Board last Thursday:
The Lonowood Art Company in Albion designed the sign for El Sol Nace.
• Backed a freestanding sign for a tortilla-making business on Route 31 in Albion. Gabriel Rodriguez is constructing a new building for El Sol Nace, a business on Route 31 that will sell tortilla, work boots, cowboy boots and also handle money transactions, such as wiring funds.
Planners already approved the site plan for the building, but the freestanding sign wasn’t in the original application. The sign would be nearly 4 feet by 7 feet at 439 West Ave.
Planners said the new sign should not be placed in a way that obstructs sight lines from vehicles attempting to exit the property. It also needs to be set back at least 15 feet from the front property line and 5 feet from the side property line, which is the village sign ordinance.
• Recommended the Town of Shelby issue a permit for Jonathan R. Daniels of Waterport to operate a motor vehicle repair shop at 11352 Maple Ridge Rd. Daniels will use a structure that has been home to a motor vehicle repair shop for several decades on Route 31A in the Hamlet District.
By Kristina Gabalski, Correspondent Posted 26 August 2016 at 1:46 pm
KENDALL – Lisa Levett has been appointed by members of the Kendall Central School Board to complete the term of Chris Gerken, who recently resigned. Gerken served as the BOE vice president.
Levett is is long-time Kendall resident whose two children attend the Kendall school district, said Kendall Central School Superintendent Julie Christensen. The term expires June 30, 2017.
The appointment was made during the Board’s regular meeting Wednesday evening. Christensen said the Board of Education also discussed the Promoting Kendall initiative and plans to hold a community forum on Oct. 5 at 7 p.m. to elicit information and ideas from all Kendall community stakeholders on ways to promote the community.
“For example, we discussed our 90-plus percent graduation rate the past ten years; our competitive performance on state assessment measures; our recognition as one of the top student achievement performers in New York State and the country; student proficiency on Advanced Placement courses; our low tax rate for the area; multiple extracurricular options such as intra-murals, 4-H, athletics, Masterminds, the improved instructional space via the capital improvement project; and community activities such as Lake Ontario, the Scarecrow Festival, an active Lions Club, Troutburg homes, etc.,” Christensen said.
The Board was also updated on the status of the capital improvement project which is in its second phase.
“Contractors are behind,” Christensen explained, “but we will be ready and anxiously await the return of all staff next Wednesday, the Community Open House on Thursday, Sept. 1, and students’ return Sept. 6.”
The Open House at the David J. Doyle Kendall Jr./Sr. High School includes the Sports Boosters’ Chicken Barbecue – take out or dine in the new cafeteria – from 4-7 p.m; entertainment provided by Kendall band and chorus students; locker setup for students from 6-7:30 p.m., Prevention Needs Assessment Survey Data presentation (based on Kendall students’ substance use) at 6 p.m., and a meet and greet with teachers and administrators from 6-7:30 p.m.
“The renovations in the science wing, Jr./Sr. High School main office, counseling office and the roof are breathtaking,” Christensen said. “The renovated elementary school bathrooms, parking lot and safety systems are much improved.”
By Kristina Gabalski, Correspondent Posted 5 August 2016 at 1:58 pm
Photo by Kristina Gabalski – Work continues this summer on the Kendall Jr./Sr. High School as part of Phase Two of the Kendall Central School Capital Project.
KENDALL – Members of the Kendall Board of Education held their regular meeting Wednesday evening in the Jr./Sr. High School cafeteria. The board normally meets in the school’s library but work is well underway on Phase Two of the district’s capital project which includes renovations to the science wing and the main office.
Kendall Superintendent Julie Christensen reported that work is slightly behind as there has been a delay in the delivery of new cabinetry for the science wing, but the district continues to plan an open house celebration for Sept. 1 when residents can come and see the completed Phase Two work.
The district held a similar open house last year at the close of Phase 1, and like last year, this year’s celebration will include the Sports Boosters’ Chicken BBQ, root beer floats from the PTSA and music provided by student ensembles.
Those attending Wednesday’s meeting were also given updates on several issues facing the district.
Christensen reported on a meeting held July 25 about the closing of the First Niagara Bank in Holley. Officials from the Kendall and Holley school districts, towns of Clarendon, Kendall and Murray, and Holley village attended the session.
“We are encouraging KeyBank to reconsider,” Christensen said. If the branch closes as slated in October, the school districts and municipalities as well as residents who use the branch will have to travel 6 miles farther east to Brockport for banking. Christensen said officials have contacted state legislators regarding the planned closing.
Kendall BOE President Nadine Hanlon reported on the July 18 workshop held by school board members, administrators and other officials from both the Holley and Kendall school districts.
“We had great conversations,” Hanlon said. “We discussed all kinds of sharing of services. We are moving ahead…. I was pleased with the meeting and we will meet again.”
Christensen said the districts discussed sharing services in three areas: instructional enrichment, such as summer programs; non-instructional, such as transportation and sharing supplies; and extracurricular, such as 4-H programming and marching band.
One member of the audience asked Christensen if wrestling had been discussed. The district superintendent said it had been. She noted that the sport is declining in student participation and Kendall currently has few wrestlers. She explained that discussions over combined sports teams (the districts fielded a combined baseball team this past spring) are a challenge because the starting of a combined sport that may take away from another well-established sport.
“It’s challenge to balance,” Christensen said.
She said many opportunities exist for “behind the scenes” sharing between the districts, particularly by increasing purchasing power for supplies.
Hanlon also reported on the effort to reduce the speed limit on Rt. 18/Roosevelt Highway in front of the Jr./Sr. High School, which currently is 50 miles per hour. Christensen was able to research the effort in 1998 to reduce the limit from 55 to 50 miles per hour and Hanlon said the district has now sent a letter to Kendall Highway Superintendent Warren Kruger.
In order for a study to be done by the State Department of Transportation, the request must go through Kruger, Hanlon explained. Letters in support of the change from Orleans County Sheriff Randy Bower and the Kendall Fire Chief have also been presented to Superintendent Kruger, Hanlon said.
She added that she requested the Orleans County Department of Transportation to paint crosswalks in front of the Elementary School on Rt. 237, as the road there is being re-paved.
Board members entered executive session at the end of the meeting to interview three candidates for the school board seat recently vacated by board vice-president Chris Gerken. Christensen said the board will make its choice at the next regular board meeting scheduled for Aug. 24.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 14 July 2016 at 11:00 am
Provided photos – There were nearly 100 boaters at the Eagle Creek Marina over the weekend for the inaugural Harris-Lance Flotilla, an event that raised more than $11,000 for Boaters Against Cancer.
KENDALL – Two beloved members of the boating community at Eagle Creek Marina died from cancer this year. Many of their friends, still grieving from their loss, organized the inaugural Harris-Lance Flotilla, an event that raised more than $11,000 for the newly formed Boaters Against Cancer. The funds will go to families of boaters battling the dreaded disease.
Dave Bentley was friends with both Scott Harris and Phil Lance, the two long-time boaters who fought cancer.
“They were two of my best friends,” Bentley, owner of Bentley Brothers in Albion and Brockport, said today. “They were two great guys.”
Bentley was part of the effort from the boating community to put together the three-day Boaters Against Cancer event last weekend at Eagle Creek Marina. The event featured concerts, food trucks and was going to include a flotilla, but that was cancelled due to rough waters.
“It will be an annual event,” Bentley said today.
Scott Harris fought bravely against male breast cancer for almost four years. He was a boater for his entire life. He grew up boating with his parents at Oak Orchard Yacht Club.
Harris owned several boats over the course of his life and was a member of Eagle Creek Yacht Club. He is survived by his wife Karen; children Nick, Cory and McKenzi; and grandson Tanner.
Phil Lance, “Canada Phil,” battled colon cancer for about two years. He began boating as a youth while fishing with family. He held many boating certifications and was a member of Eagle Creek Yacht Club. His boating adventures took him all around Lake Erie, Lake Ontario and throughout the province of Ontario.
He is survived by his wife Jill, her children and grandchildren.
Boaters have fun by the lake during the Boaters Against Cancer event.
About 40 to 50 boaters who are regulars were part of last weekend’s memorial event for the two boaters. Another 30 boaters visited to join the effort.
“It turned out to be a very good first-time event,” said Dave Oschmann, manager of the marina.
For more information about Boaters Against Cancer, click here.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 9 July 2016 at 10:00 am
KENDALL – Members of the Fancher-Huberton-Murray Volunteer Fire Company march and salute during Friday’s parade in Kendall during the Firemen’s Carnival. There were about 20 fire departments represented in the parade, a big turnout.
Several fire departments in the region have recently decided to close their firemen’s carnivals. That may be why fire companies from as far away as East Rochester and Byron wanted to be part of the Kendall parade.
There were several marching bands in the parade, including the Mark Time Marchers based in Churchville. The front three members include Ryan Pastecki, TJ Jones (with flag), and Grant Pastecki.
Vietnam Veterans of America based in Rochester marched near the front of the parade on Kendall Road. They received a standing ovation from many in the crowd.
Kendall Fire Department was well represented in the parade.
The Boy Scouts in the Kendall area put together a patriotic float.
The White Sabres Drum and Bugle Corps from Dansville gave a high-energy performance.
The Kendall Lawnchair Ladies continue to be crowd favorites.
The Lawnchair Ladies smile near the end of their routine. This group includes Kendall High School Principal Carol D’Agostino, second from right.
Brightly’s Farm Market in Hamlin was among many local businesses in the parade.
Jeff Partyka from Partyka Farms tosses treats to kids along the parade route. Partyka Farms used a tractor to pull a trailer with children in the Kendall Recreation Program.
The Kendall Lions sang patriotic songs from this vintage vehicle driven by Gary Kludt.
The Elba Fire Department rode in the parade with a flag attached high on the fire truck.
Members of Prime Time Brass in Rochester make their presence felt.
Head Over Heels Acrobatics and Dance pass out candy while walking in the parade.
Lone Oak Stables on Norway Road in Kendall has been a regular participant in the parade for several years.
Ellen Robinson, owner of Lone Oak Stables, saw many friends along the parade route.
John Becker serves as parade emcee. He thanked the participants, including Fancher-Huberton-Murray, for being part of the Kendall Firemen’s Carnival.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 7 July 2016 at 12:00 am
KENDALL – These Kendall kids ride the Twist this evening during the opening day of the Kendall Carnival, an annual gala organized by the Kendall Fire Department. This group includes, from left: Emma O’Neill, CJ D’Agostino, and Brady Werth. They will all be in second grade this fall.
Olivia Bruski of Albion makes her way through an obstacle course on one of the rides at the carnival. American Amusements Rentals of Machias is the ride provider.
The swing ride was popular.
Mike Sanders of Barre heads down the Rapid Slide with his granddaughter, Payson.
These Kendall kids head down the big slide.
It wouldn’t be a carnival if there weren’t goldfish as prizes at some of the games.
A young carnival-goer waves to family on one of the kiddie rides.
The carnival continues until Saturday. There will be a 7 .m. parade on Friday and Saturday will be capped with fireworks at 10:20 p.m. To see the full schedule, click here.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 5 July 2016 at 12:00 am
Provided photo – Employees for the Elmer W. Davis of Rochester last week work on tearing off the roof of the Kendall Jr./Sr. High School. The building front entrance will get a radical new look over the summer.
KENDALL – Contractors will be busy this summer giving the Kendall Jr./Sr. High School a new look, especially with the roof.
Students, teachers and staff will return to a school in September that has a much more appealing look that allows more existing light in the building, said Julie Christensen, the school district superintendent.
This rendering shows how the new main entrance will look at the Kendall Jr./Sr. High School.
Kendall residents approved a $25 million capitol project in May 2013. Most of that work happened last summer. The revamp of the main entrance at the junior-senior high school is one of the final pieces of the construction project.
In addition to improved aesthetics, the new entrance will provide an enclosed place for students giving students a safe and dry spot while they are waiting before or after school, Christensen said.
Contractors will also work on bathrooms in the elementary school and remove some asbestos tiling over the summer.
KENDALL – This line of Kendall female grads gets ready for commencement on Friday at the David J. Doyle Junior/Senior High School. Kendall graduated 67 members of the Class of 2016.
Zachary Rohr is recognized during the commencement ceremony. Julie Christensen, the Kendall Central School superintendent, watches from the stage with other members of the Class of 2016.
Abby Rice delivers the salutatorian address. She told her classmates to, “Fake it until you make it.”
In her valedictory address, Julia Smith noted that, “life is messy,” from “Grey’s Anatomy.”
Kendall male graduates are lined up for the ceremony.
Kendall Principal Carol D’Agostino presents Caitlyn Bonifield with her diploma.
Creagan Maclaren, Brooke Andrus, Keri Furness and Julia Smith pose for a photo.
Members of the soccer team are pictured with their coach, Pam Beres.
Kris Johnston, a 1995 Kendall graduate who now works at Constellations Brands, gave the Commencement Address. Johnston obtained her bachelors and masters degrees in accounting from St. Bonaventure University and is a CPA. The theme of her speech was “Oh the Places You’ll Go,” from Dr. Seuss.
Kendall graduates move their tassels near the end of commencement on Friday.
By Kristina Gabalski, Correspondent Posted 21 June 2016 at 12:00 am
Photo by Kristina Gabalski – Rubie Maxwell, a Holley sixth grader, stands with Holley Elementary School Principal Karri Schiavone after receiving a Soaring to New Heights Award at the Holley Board of Education meeting Monday evening. Maxwell has volunteered as the Pre-K Safety Patrol Officer, helping students on and off the bus each day. The students call her “Miss Rubie,” Schiavone said. “She takes time out of her day to help out. The Pre-K students love her.” Top Ten graduates of this year’s Senior Class were also recognized during the Soaring to New Heights portion of the meeting.
HOLLEY – School leaders from Holley and Kendall will meet July 18 to discuss shared services, including instruction, non-instruction and extra-curricular programs.
Robert D’Angelo, Holley school district superintendent, reported to the Holley Board of Education on Monday that he and School Board President Brenda Swanger met recently with Kendall School Superintendent Julie Christensen and Kendall School Board President Nadine Hanlon. They are planning the agenda for the July 18 work session between the two boards, administrations and teams.
Swanger said neither district wants to lose its identity, and D’Angelo emphasized he sees nothing but good coming from the effort.
“We want to share, not swallow each other up,” D’Angelo said.
The districts already share some programs. For example, Kendall students played on the Holley varsity baseball team this season after Kendall didn’t have enough players to field a team.
In other discussion at Monday’s meeting, Board of Education members say they have not yet made a decision regarding the number of teachers for next year’s third graders.
Several parents spoke during the public comment portion of Monday evening’s meeting, expressing concerns that the district might reduce the number of third grade teachers from four to three.
Two third grade teachers are leaving – the board accepted the resignation of one teacher and the retirement of another – but board members say they are not yet ready to make a decision about how they will proceed.
“We don’t have to decide until it’s absolutely necessary,” Board Vice President Robin Silvis said. “We have a lot to think about.”
Board member John Heise said if next year’s third grade was reduced to three teachers, it would be a way for the district to save money.
“The fund balance has gone down,” he said. “We’ve got to start saving somewhere.”
Swanger, the Board president, said she did not agree.
“We haven’t made a decision … it’s not going to be an easy decision,” she said. She and other Board members thanked parents for attending the meeting and making their feelings on the subject known.
Board members indicated they would likely make the decision in August. Incoming third graders will not have their teacher named on Fourth Quarter reports cards to be sent home on Wednesday.
Board members also approved the creation of an Interact Club, a community service club which will be sponsored by the Holley Rotary. A number of students are interested, and board member John Heise, a Holley Rotarian, said students would like to get going this summer on projects.
Heise said students have already begun looking into installing a “buddy bench” on the playground at the Elementary School as a potential first project. The club would be open to students in grades 7-12.
KENDALL – Elementary school students at Kendall celebrated Flag Day on Tuesday with most students wearing red, white and blue. The students gather for a group picture every Flag Day. This year the school decided to pose in the shape of the peace sign.
Provided Photo – Pictured from left: Eric Maxon, Pat Bolton, Jeff Rodas and Helen Unterborn.
The Kendall Lions Club held its annual Officer Installation and Awards Dinner on Thursday at the Kendall Fire Hall. Members were recognized for their years of service, new members were welcomed and a slide show of our year in pictures was presented.
In addition four awards were presented to members of our club. The Ray Ernenwein Lion of the Year Award was presented to Lion Eric Maxon. The Robert J Uplinger Award for distinguished service to Lions and the Community was awarded to Patrick Bolton. Two Lions were named Melvin Jones Fellows, the highest honor that can be bestowed on a Lion. Lion Jeff Rodas and club secretary Lion Helen Unterborn were recognized for their service to the club and community.
By Kristina Gabalski, Correspondent Posted 16 June 2016 at 12:00 am
Photo by Kristina Gabalski – Kendall High School student Madison Rath, standing at far right, describes a traumatic motor vehicle accident she experienced recently in front of the Jr./Sr. High School to Board of Education members and school administrators. She said the speed limit needs to be lowered and the stretch of Route 18 should also become a no-passing zone.
KENDALL – A group of concerned parents and students told Kendall Board of Education members and administrators Wednesday evening that they want to see the speed limit lowered on Route 18/Roosevelt Highway in front of the Jr./Sr. High School.
The current speed limit is 50 miles per hour and parents who spoke said that is dangerously high. They noted a blind spot on the hill as drivers approach the school from the east and the lack of a flashing sign to warn motorists. There is a caution sign, parent Cherise Nesbitt-Oakley said, but it is partially hidden by tree and plant growth.
Madison Rath, a 16-year-old Kendall High School student, spoke to the Board regarding a motor vehicle accident in which she was involved six weeks ago in front of the school.
“Thankfully no one was seriously injured, but it was one of the most horrifying situations of my life,” Rath said. She noted that in addition to a speed limit of 50 miles per hour, the section of road in front of the school is also a passing zone.
“Why would you have a dangerous situation like that in front of a high school?” Rath questioned. “We are the newest of (new) drivers just wanting to get home after another long school day. What if someone was seriously hurt or even killed?”
Parents said they would like to see the speed limit reduced to 35 miles per hour, but noted 40 miles per hour may be the lowest the state will go. They said a school speed zone should be posted from Norway to Kendall roads. Route 18 is a state highway.
Board members and administrators were very supportive of the effort to lower the speed limit. School Board President Nadine Hanlon advised that residents send letters to the Orleans County Legislature as well as NYS Assemblyman Steve Hawley and State Senator Robert Ortt. She said the greater the number of letters, the more significant the impact on lawmakers.
“I don’t want there to be any more accidents,” Hanlon said, and added that she is always watching in her rearview mirror as she slows to pull into the school campus.
Superintendent Julie Christensen said she would make concerns known to local officials, but also advised that parents need to speak up.
“You are really the voices they will listen to,” she said.
Parents presented board members with a memorandum from Lovette French, who works in security at the Jr./Sr, High School. French noted that the accident involving Madison Rath was one of six observed personally in the area.
“A reduced speed limit during school hours would benefit the safety and well-being of our student body population,” French wrote.
Alicia Charland, a parent who lives just across the street from the campus, said visibility is poor in both directions and the road is busy. She said Kendall bus drivers are also, “worried about the danger,” in the area.
In other business, board members approved a partnership agreement between the Kendall Central School District and Orleans County YMCA regarding a before and after school program for students that will be housed at the Kendall Elementary School beginning in the fall. The program will begin at 6 a.m. and run until 6 p.m. in the evenings.
The Orleans YMCA is, “a great partner,” said Christensen, the district superintendent. “They are excited about bringing this service to us.”
Elementary Principal Sharon Smith said officials at the YMCA have told her the new partnership ensures that before and after school care will, “never be out of reach for anyone in Kendall Schools.”
Smith explained that the YMCA hopes to expand the program after a year’s time with support of the Universal Pre-K half day and perhaps an in-house summer program.
By Kristina Gabalski, Correspondent Posted 30 May 2016 at 12:00 am
Photos by Kristina Gabalski – The Memorial Day parade in Kendall makes its way north on Orleans-Monroe County Line Road on Monday evening.
KENDALL – Members of the Kendall community gathered Monday evening for a Memorial Day observance at the Morton Cemetery on Kenmor Rd. A parade down Orleans-Monroe County Line Road to Kenmore Road preceded the ceremonies.
Kendall Supervisor Tony Cammarata reminded those attending of the significance of the observance and of the soldiers who fought and died serving their country.
“It is their sacrifice which enables us to enjoy our freedoms,” he said.
Supervisor Cammarata also spoke of the American soldiers who fought and died overseas and are buried in American cemeteries in foreign countries, as well as the “83,000 warriors” who are Missing in Action and without graves.
Members of the Kendall Fire Department march Monday evening in the parade.
The United States flag is held by members of the Kendall Fire Department during Memorial Day ceremonies at the Morton Cemetery.
Congressman Chris Collins speaks during the Kendall Memorial Day ceremonies. Kendall Supervisor Tony Cammarata listens in the background. Collins urged those in attendance to “remember the sacrifices made by others so we can continue to be free.”
New York State Senator Rob Ortt speaks Monday evening at the Morton Cemetery in Kendall. Senator Ortt, a veteran of the war in Afghanistan, called Memorial Day a “solemn holiday.” He said the soldiers, “who don’t come back are the real heroes.” Members of the Kendall Town Board, including Supervisor Tony Cammarata are also pictured.
State Assemblyman Steve Hawley said Kendall is the final event he attends on Memorial Day. “Kendall is great,” he said, “this is America.” A veteran, Assemblyman Hawley reminded those in attendance about the annual Patriot Trip he organizes for local veterans, enabling them to travel to Washington, D.C., to visit, “the memorials erected to the veterans who paid the ultimate price.”
Members of the Kendall Jr./Sr. High School chorus perform during the ceremonies Monday evening.
Kendall Town Council Members Barb Flow and Wayne Martin placed a wreath on the grave of a soldier in the Morton Cemetery.
Members of the Kendall Jr./Sr. High School Band also performed. Looking on in the background is Orleans County Legislator Ken DeRoller and Orleans County
Sheriff Randy Bower. Orleans County Legislator Lynne Johnson also attended the Memorial Day observance in Kendall.
Boy Scouts and veterans unfurled a large U.S. Flag and then re-folded it as an explanation of the meaning of each of the 13 folds was read.
Kendall 8th grader Jayden Pieniaszek played “Taps” to conclude Memorial Day ceremonies in Kendall.
By Kristina Gabalski, Correspondent Posted 26 May 2016 at 12:00 am
Photos by Kristina Gabalski – The annual Grace Lang/Amber Liese Walk Thursday afternoon was well-attended.
KENDALL – Despite threatening skies and a heavy downpour about 45 minutes into the event, students, faculty, staff, administrators and community members came out in record numbers Thursday afternoon for the annual Grace Lang/Amber Liese Memorial Walk at the Kendall High School Track.
The event is sponsored by the Kendall Sr. National Honor Society and benefits the American Lung Association, American Cancer Society, Teens Living with Cancer, Kendall Ambulance and the Ovarian Cancer National Alliance.
Members of Libby Jurs’ family pose together before hitting the track to walk.
This year’s walk was dedicated to Libby Jurs, a beloved former Kendall school nurse, who died of cancer in 2015. The Jurs Family participated in the Walk and said Libby had participated herself in past years.
“She is missed for sure buy a lot of people,” Libby’s husband, John said. “She touched a lot of people.”
“We appreciate all that has been done for our family by the Kendall Central School District,” Libby’s daughter, Jennifer said.
A sign alongside the track featured a photograph of Libby.
National Honor Society co-advisor Gretchen Rosales estimated participation this year at more than 100 people, which is more than usual.
“Libby had a huge impact on all of us,” Rosales said. “Today is a celebration of her life. We are excited to be able to honor her memory today.”
Kendall Jr./Sr. High School Principal Carol D’Agostino said this year’s school yearbook will be dedicated to Libby during the school’s formal awards ceremony next Friday.
The Walk is named for Grace Lang, the Kendall school nurse who preceded Libby, who died of cancer of 1990, and Amber Liese, a Kendall student who died of cancer in 2010 just months after graduation.
Members of the Kendall Central School faculty, staff and administration pose on the track with the photo of Libby.
By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 17 May 2016 at 12:00 am
Photo by Tom Rivers – The walkway to the Albion Middle School is pictured Monday evening while the trees are in bloom in front a Vietnam Memorial.
Voters will go the polls today at the five school districts in Orleans County to decide whether to pass budgets, propositions and elect members to the Board of Education.
Here is a snapshot of each school district:
ALBION – The proposed $33,890,990 school budget keeps taxes at the same amount, $8,355,939, as the 2015-16 budget. The district’s tax rate for the current school year, $16.06 per $1,000 of assessed property, is the lowest of all districts in Orleans, Genesee, Niagara and Monroe counties. The Albion rate is estimated to fall to $15.87 in 2016-17, school officials said.
Other propositions include:
Authorization to spend up to $460,000 for buses;
Approval to collect $687,211 for Hoag Library, which is up 1 percent from the $680,411 for 2015-16.
Choosing one of four candidates for a five-year term on the Board of Education. The candidates include Dylan Hellems, Steven LaLonde, Kevin Doherty and Anitrice Riley.
Voting will be from noon to 8 p.m. at the elementary school, conference room A.
HOLLEY – The proposed $24.4 million budget for 2016-17 includes a 1.99 percent increase in the tax levy. The budget is 4.73 percent higher than the current year budget. The nearly 5 percent budget-to-budget increase is due to the district’s share of the Monroe 2-Orleans BOCES Capital Project, school officials said.
The proposed budget maintains current staffing and programs, and brings the average tax rate to approximately $22.81 per $1,000 of assessed value.
Besides the budget, voters will decide the following: Proposition 2 for the purchase of schools buses – two full-sized and two 30-passenger school buses not to exceed $339,000; Proposition 3 is the budget for the Community Free Library in Holley of $116,061.
Additionally, three candidates are running for two 3-year term seats on the School Board. John Heise and Brenda Swanger are running for re-election, and Christine Klafehn is also running for an open seat.
Voting will be from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. in the foyer of the Holley Middle School/High School.
KENDALL – The proposed budget increases spending from $15,065,842 to $17,392,234, predominantly due to the debt incurred with the recent capital improvement project. The budget-to-budget increase, however, is completely offset by an increase in state aid from $9,884,890 to $11,855,939, school officials said.
The proposed tax levy remains unchanged in the 2016/17 budget, and the tax rate will be $17.39/$1,000 assessed value for a Kendall resident.
One seat on the School Board of Education is up for election this year. Incumbent Charles Patt is seeking another term. Debra Szczepanski is also seeking a term on the Board. The five-year term will run through June 30, 2021.
Voting is from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. in the Kendall Elementary School Gymnasium.
LYNDONVILLE – The school district is proposing a budget that will reduce taxes by 3.4 percent, continuing a downward trend in the tax burden.
The district is proposing a budget that seeks a tax levy of $4,266,578, which is down from $4,416,578 in 2015-16. The previous year, 2014-15, the district’s tax levy was $4,666,578. Lyndonville has reduced the tax levy by $400,000 in two years, a drop of 8.6 percent.
The district’s $13,254,000 budget is nearly the same in expenditures as in 2015-16. The 2016-17 budget is $108 more than the $13,253,892 in 2015-16.
Other propositions include:
$91,589 for Yates Community Library (up from $90,653).
Establish 2016 Transportation Reserve Fund to fund bus and vehicle purchases, not to exceed $720,000 over 8 years.
Authorization to purchase one 66-passenger school bus at a maximum estimated cost of $110,000. School officials say the bus proposition and Transportation Reserve Fund will not have an impact on the tax levy.
Three incumbents on the Board of Education are all running unopposed for three-year terms. They include Harold Suhr, Terry Stinson and Rick Mufford.
Voting will be from noon to 8 p.m. at the Stroyan Auditorium forum.
MEDINA – The school district’s budget for 2016-17 reduces taxes for the fourth straight year. The $35,825,184 budget is up about $1 million from the $34,802,870 in 2015-16.
The state has boosted aid by nearly $900,000 and Medina is tapping some of its reserve funds to lower taxes in 2016-17, school officials said.
The new state budget boosts aid to Medina from $23,769,997 to $24,860,152. That increase is a big factor in Medina’s ability to cut taxes by 1.3 percent, from $8,774,760 to $8,660,915.
The budget keeps all existing programs and also boosts the gifted and talented offerings.
There are six people running for three three-year terms, including incumbents Lori Draper and Wendi Pencille. Retired Medina school administrator Alberta Suozzi also is running for the board along with Timothy Dunham, Virginia Nicholson and Brenda Lindsay. (Draper and Pencille are seeking re-election and John McCarthy opted against seeking another term.)
Voting will be from noon to 8 p.m. at the District Office.
