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Clifton School Board Debates 2 Tax Increase Amidst Budgetary

Leo Migdal
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clifton school board debates 2 tax increase amidst budgetary

The Clifton School Board meeting on March 11, 2025, was dominated by discussions around a proposed 2% tax increase necessary to address budgetary challenges. The proposed budget aims to address rising costs, including health benefits, and to mitigate the impact of historical funding deficits, which have left the district below expected funding levels by approximately $44 million. The focal point of the meeting was the preliminary budget hearing led by Mr. Shahada, who oversees the district’s financial matters. He presented a budget proposal that includes a 2% tax increase, carefully positioned as a necessary step to sustain current programs and maintain contractual obligations. The average projected financial impact of this increase on homeowners was calculated at approximately $8 per month based on the average assessed value of homes in Clifton.

The district’s allocation of $5.9 million in state aid was outlined, with funds earmarked for special education, security, and equalization aid. However, significant rises in health benefits, attributed to changes in insurance policies and increased medical claims following the pandemic, posed challenges. The budget presentation emphasized fiscal responsibility and equity, with Mr. Shahada stating, “Budgets are more than just numbers on a page; they are a reflection of our values.” He highlighted the district’s efficiency, noting that spending per pupil remains below state and county averages,... The necessity of the proposed tax increase was tied to years of 0% increases, which initially seemed prudent but resulted in a funding deficit, impacting local fair share funding calculations. A concern raised during the meeting revolved around the potential consequences of not approving the proposed tax increase.

Dr. Danny inquired about the possibility of staff cuts, should the increase not pass, to which Mr. Shahada responded that while not the intention, a $3 million financial deficit could lead to necessary program cuts. Dr. Robert Toy echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that failing to secure the tax increase would negatively impact programs essential for student success. The meeting also explored financial management strategies, including limiting non-essential purchases to retain reserves, which were deemed critical for unforeseen circumstances.

The opinions expressed here are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of The Clifton Times. For weeks, the Clifton Board of Education and Clifton Public Schools Administration have been embroiled in a contentious debate over the school budget and tax increases. Concerns about transparency, accountability, and conflicting interests have only deepened as this battle continues. Commissioners have raised alarms about inadequate information, broken promises, and tax hikes that place undue burdens on taxpayers. Despite these concerns, a preliminary budget with a 2% increase was sent to the county, with Alan Paris, Anthony Santiago, Joseph Canova, and Tanya Suarez voting “yes.” But this issue goes far beyond a mere disagreement over tax rates.

It strikes at the very core of integrity and accountability within our public institutions. What’s most alarming is the blatant conflict of interest involving Board Commissioner Tanya Suarez. Suarez is engaged to Ahmed Shehata, the Assistant Superintendent of Business, who also happens to be the district’s chief architect of the budget. This is not a trivial connection; it is a profound ethical dilemma. Mr. Shehata’s responsibilities include designing and recommending the district’s budget—a process that directly impacts every taxpayer and student in Clifton.

With a nearly $300,000 salary and immense influence over district operations, Mr. Shehata’s role is undeniably powerful. The New Jersey School Boards Association makes it clear: the board’s role is to act as a watchdog for the community—to represent the concerns of citizens, taxpayers, and parents to school administrators and ensure... That sacred duty is undermined when personal relationships blur the lines of accountability. CLIFTON — Before Thursday's meeting, the school board had proposed an operating budget that wouldn't raise taxes, by the end of the night, that had changed. At the end of the almost five-hour meeting, the proposed operating budget was increased by 2%, which raises the tax levy by five tax points, or about $50 per $100,000 of assessed value.

If approved, the spending plan will mean the average assessed home of $170,000 will see a tax increase of $85 per year. Taxpayers can add that amount to the five-tax-point tax increase from last year's voter-approved $168 million referendum to upgrade aging school buildings. Of that amount, the tax levy will be $2.5 million, or the amount to be collected through property taxes. That will mean the school tax bill will increase an additional $100 for every $100,000 of assessed value, or $170 for the average assessed home or $500 for one assessed at $500,000. Board members agreed to the 2% increase as a result of comments from staff and faculty, who said the district's longstanding understaffing issues need to be addressed. Superintendent of Schools Danny Robertozzi told trustees that not increasing the levy would mean the board would have to increase its tax rate by at least 2% next year.

Phil Murphy on education, no cellphones at 2026 NJ budget address Gov. Phil Murphy talks education, and his proposed no cellphones policy at his 2026 NJ budget address. The school board approved a budget that exceeds the 2% spending cap by 1%.The average assessed city home will see a school tax... read full story Answer for your question of the article will be displayed here ... Overview: The Passaic County Board of Commissioners meeting focused on the county’s response to the suspension of SNAP benefits, efforts to support vulnerable residents, and recognitions for community contributions.

With the federal government shutdown affecting approximately 76,000 county residents, including 30,000 children, the board took swift action to provide emergency assistance to those in need. The meeting also celebrated notable achievements in education and recognized individuals for their service to the community. Overview: The Clifton School Board meeting highlighted concerns over federal funding cuts, particularly in Title programs, while also showcasing various community engagement initiatives, including successful food drives and school events. Discussions around funding, vaping issues among students, and community contributions dominated the agenda. Overview: During the latest meeting of the Passaic County Board of Commissioners, the launch of the “P County Move” microtransit pilot program and the introduction of the updated Passaic County Heritage Tourism Master Plan... The transit program, operational since May, and the new heritage tourism plan are expected to enhance mobility and attract visitors to the county.

Overview: During a recent meeting of the Passaic County Board of Commissioners, concerns over the county’s social services system were raised, alongside celebrations of Italian-American contributions. Public comments highlighted systemic issues within social services, with advocates calling for greater transparency and accountability. Meanwhile, the board also honored notable Italian-American figures. Overview: The Passaic County Board of Commissioners convened on September 30, 2025, focusing on community recognition during Hispanic Heritage Month. The meeting featured the presentation of scholarships, commendation of community leaders, and discussions on public health awareness and potential economic impacts of a federal government shutdown. During a recent Clifton School Board meeting, the issues of increasing student enrollment and potential budget adjustments dominated discussions.

A demographic study revealed a projected rise in student numbers, prompting considerations for a new middle school to alleviate current overcrowding. Meanwhile, budgetary concerns elicited debate over a proposed tax levy increase, with board members weighing the necessity of additional funding against public apprehension about tax hikes. The study projected an increase of over 500 students within five years, exacerbating current capacity constraints, especially at the middle school level. The district’s existing middle schools are operating at over 100% capacity, necessitating strategic planning to accommodate the anticipated influx of students. To manage this growth, the district proposed the construction of a new middle school, which would involve redistributing students from existing schools. The plan aims to balance enrollment while maintaining fiscal responsibility by minimizing the need for additional staff hires.

The presentation also addressed the importance of maintaining socioeconomic diversity across schools, with particular attention to the status of Title I funding, which supports schools with higher percentages of low-income students. In tandem with enrollment discussions, the board tackled financial challenges, particularly the consideration of a 2% budget increase. The administration underscored the urgency of this decision, noting a looming deadline for applying for additional funds should the board decide to exceed the 2% cap. The potential loss of $21 million in federal aid added a layer of complexity, as the district navigates shortfalls that threaten educational programs and staffing. Board members expressed mixed opinions on the proposed budget increase. Some advocated for a larger adjustment to address the district’s financial needs, emphasizing the importance of robust funding in maintaining educational quality.

Others were cautious about exceeding the cap, mindful of taxpayer concerns and the potential backlash from the community.

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