Akron and Alden School Budgets pass budgets

In voting on Tuesday, May 19, both the Akron and the Alden Central School Budgets passed their 2026-2027 budgets.

Akron district residents voted  166 “yes”, 101 “no”, on the 2026-2027 budget of $40,857,103 which reflects a 4.6 percent increase over the 2025-26 budget of $39,044,762 with a proposed tax levy increase of approximately 2.5% below the 3.3% the district could increase the levy under the state cap formula.

Joseph Cena and Stephanie Coffta were re-elected to the Akron Board of Education, with terms from July 1, 2026 to June 30, 2028.

Akron voted yes on the acquisition of school buses and related equipment 206 “yes” and 57 “no”.

Alden district residents voted  438 “yes”,  147 “no”, on their 2026-2027 school budget and elected Michael Bennett (482) to the one open seat on the Alden Board of Education.

Alden voters also approved the purchase of buses 442 “yes”, 141 “no”; purchase of buildings and grounds equipment 457 “yes”, 128 “no”; and establishment of a Buildings and grounds equipment capital reserve fund, 441 “yes, 144 “no”.

The Akron Central Budgetincreases reflect contractual obligations, rising health care costs, special education needs, and operational expenses.

Included at no additional cost, are expanded instructional programs based on community and student feedback.  Reintroduction of Family and Consumer Science, a launch of a personal finance curriculum and introduction of a new agriculture elective in Middle School; Continued expansion of work-based learning opportunities, partnerships with local businesses to support real-world experiences, and introduction of a new sign language course in the High School were implemented using the skills and certifications of current staff.

Also supported is a new Elementary drama club, new high school debate club, continued focus on developing communication, leadership, and collaboration skills, ongoing musical instrument replacement cycle.  Also included is continued investment in strong instructional programs and ongoing support for student achievement and engagement.

The budget takes advantage of the state aid supported capital outlay project which returns about 82.5% state reimbursement for capital projects up to $100,000.  This year the proposed project is replacement of pool timing system and scoreboard which is near the end of its life expectancy.

State aid is projected to increase one percent under the current state budget discussions