The Hilton Board of Education voted to adopt a $47,997,019 budget proposal for the 2003-04 school year at its April 8 meeting. "This year's budget has given us a challenge," Hilton Superintendent of Schools John Cooper said. "The state's budget deficit is $11 billion. The Governor's proposed budget cuts are $1.24 billion. The impact on the Hilton School District is a reduction in state aid of $1,450,000 or 9 percent."

Review of district expenditures over the past months by the Board of Education and administration resulted in $1.2 million in cost reductions including reduced staffing support - both instructionally and administratively; fewer electives at the High School; a reduction in the number of contests played by athletic teams while the number of teams remains the same; a reduction in staff development and training conferences; a reduced summer learning program for elementary students; modifications to team teaching at the middle school; and fewer opportunities for intramurals and extracurricular activities.

"The proposed budget includes a 1.92 percent increase in operating costs," said Assistant Superintendent for Business Steven Ayers, "plus increases in interest and principal payments on debt. We are projecting tax rates that reflect an estimated 7.49 percent tax rate increase per $1,000 assessed valuation."

Cooper and Ayers are delivering a number of public presentations on the proposed budget including May 7 Hilton-Parma Chamber of Commerce meeting at noon at Carmestro's Restaurant, Canning Street, Hilton and May 14 Greece Rotary Club meeting, noon at Ridgemont Country Club. The public is invited to attend. Call 392-1000 ext .7033 for information.

Two positions are open on the Board of Education at the May 20 Budget Vote and Board Election. Incumbents Daniel Wellington of Greece and Gary Comardo of Parma are on the ballot. A Meet the Candidates night was held May 1.

Presentations of the proposed budget will be aired on EduCable CH 12 West May 7, May 8, May 14, and May 15 at 7 p.m. Budget facts are also available on the District Web Site: www.hilton.k12.ny.us

The Budget Vote/Board Election is scheduled for Tuesday, May 20, from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. with polls located at the Quest/West Avenue School, 225 West Avenue, Hilton (Parma, Clarkson and Hamlin residents) and Northwood Elementary School, 433 North Greece Road, Greece (Greece residents). Voters must be registered with Monroe County Board of Elections or with the District. For information about voter registration, call the District Clerk at 392-1000 ext. 7099.