CAPE ELIZABETH — The Town Council on Tuesday approved a $20.7 million school budget that will go before voters June 8.
The budget passed with a vote of 6-2, with Chairwoman Anne Swift-Kayatta and Councilor Jessica Sullivan opposed. The two councilors expressed concern about increasing spending in the current economic climate and when enrollment is declining.
The budget for next school year is 3.4 percent higher than the current budget of $20 million. The property tax rate for school services would increase 3.4 percent, or 34 cents, to $12.54 per $1,000 of assessed valuation.
The school spending plan was part of the Cape Elizabeth’s $31.4 million overall budget, which also includes municipal and community services and county taxes. The overall property tax rate would increase 1.8 percent, or 31 cents, to $17.54 per $1,000 of assessed valuation.
The school budget would result in the net reduction of the equivalent of 2.75 full-time positions. The cuts include teachers, education technicians, computer lab technicians and an administrative support position. Additions include positions in occupational therapy, teaching, nursing and psychological services.
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