Voting For the 2012/13 Haldane School Budget

Dear Editor,

On May 15th, I plan to vote in support of the proposed 2012 – 2013 Haldane School Budget and I ask that our community consider doing the same. This budget is fiscally responsible: the Board of Education has managed to keep any increase of property taxes below 2%, despite rising costs and over $500,000 in reduction of state aid, with minimal disruption to education.

This budget maintains Haldane’s standards of education which directly impact not just the school, but the entire community. A good school helps maintain property values and fosters a safe and economically-healthy community. Haldane’s strong reputation is a big part of what keeps many of its graduates here in Cold Spring and attracts new people to the community: people who pay local taxes, shop in our stores, eat in our restaurants and sustain local businesses year-round. Businesses such as tax accountants, doctors, Pilates & Yoga instructors, massage therapists, dry cleaners, piano teachers, house & yard services and more all benefit from that clientele.

A good school equals a good community. This budget achieves that. Please join me in voting to approve the proposed budget on May 15th.

Sincerely,

Laura Danilov