On Tuesday, the Bedford Central Schools held the second of three public forums to discuss the proposed school budget at the Bedford Public Library. 

This was in addition to the Board of Education meetings, which also include a public forum.  Plus, the district conducted 500 telephone interviews, and posted an online survey to gauge taxpayer opinion on budget issues.

It's an extraordinary amount of outreach and the residents appreciate the transparency of this year's budget process.

"As a mother of twins in kindergarten, I'm really here to learn about the issues," said Bedford Village Elementary school parent Lauren Stricof.  "I just want the best education for my kids and don't want the standards lowered," she said.

The budget proposes a 1.58 percent increase from last year and the elimination of about 28 teaching positions.

Though sparsely attended—about 25 people were there—those who were present did their best to understand the complicated issues. 

For example, discussion heated up over the impact of town assessments on tax rates in the different municipalities within the town of Bedford.  The widest range is between Pound Ridge, which could enjoy a 2.23 percent tax decrease, while Bedford may see a 4.5 percent increase if the proposed budget passes. 

"It's complex and hard to grasp—the translation from the budget increase to the tax levy to the actual tax increases—and I'm an accountant by training," said Jill Wollman, who has a 1^st, 6^th and 11^th grader in the district.  Last year Bedford taxes went down so it seems like a huge jump, Wollman said.

Assistant Superintendent for Business Mark Betz did his best to explain, noting that towns who had the most recent assessment usually paid more in taxes.  But those rates did average out over time, he assured the group.

In an interview after the forum, Betz said he felt the sessions were helping the process.  "It's a balancing act.  No one wants to see our teachers go.  But if we don't have staff reductions, what programs are going to go?"

Betz said the Board of Education meeting, held later that evening, drew close to 200 community members who were quite vocal about what they wanted to keep intact, including smaller class sizes and the strong arts program.  But, he said, based on the board's discussion, it didn't look like they were going to go beyond the 1.58 budget increase, so not everything can be put back. 

So what cuts will parents tolerate? 

"I don't know yet," said Wollman.  "Personally, I'd pay higher taxes to maintain our high standards.  I have five children and they all have different needs and learning styles.  I would hate to see critical supports be cut," she said.

Next week's Board of Education meeting is the last before they adopt a budget, and district officials will present full survey results from their public opinion polls.  The March 25^th Board of Education meeting will be at the Fox Lane Middle School Theater at 7:30 p.m.