Budget Vote: Early Voting and Absentee Ballots Available
The South Colonie Central School District will be asking residents to vote Tuesday, May 19 on a $147.6 million budget proposal. Taxpayers would see a 3.49% tax levy increase, which falls below the state-mandated cap. The figure includes a 1% phase-in to fund the Next Generation Capital Project, approved by voters in November 2022.
This plan preserves all current programs while expanding initiatives that promote equitable access to academics and enhanced student support services. It also emphasizes the long-term sustainability of district programs and facilities, ensuring lasting benefits for future generations of Colonie students.
Guided by the district’s Portrait of a Graduate, the budget invests in K-12 literacy through updated ELA curricula and significantly expands college readiness at the high school. To meet diverse student needs, the district is expanding special education capacity with new 6:1:2 classrooms and an additional co-teach section, alongside increased staffing for English as a New Language, psychology, and business education. The proposal also adds new extracurricular clubs and expands athletic coaching staff to support growing programs like varsity field hockey and flag football. Residents will head to the polls Tuesday, May 19.
Also on the Ballot
Bus Purchase
As part of the 2026-27 budget proposal, voters will consider a separate $1.68 million proposition to purchase 10 traditional replacement vehicles, a move that supports the district’s long-term fleet plan to improve safety and reduce maintenance costs. The request includes six 66-passenger full-size buses, one 16-passenger small bus, two 24-passenger wheelchair-accessible buses equipped with air conditioning, and one 6-passenger minivan or Suburban. This investment is designed to be cost-effective for the community, as New York State aid is expected to cover approximately 63.5% of the total purchase price.
Capital Project
With no additional tax impact, Proposition 3 authorizes the use of $4.7 million from the existing capital reserve to maximize state aid for a $13 million capital project supporting upgrades at the new Transportation Facility and helping offset costs associated with expanding classroom cooling.
Reserve Fund
This proposition allows the district to establish a new capital reserve fund of up to $10 million accumulated over a period of up to ten years. Funded through available balances and BOE-approved transfers, the available balance would be used for future building improvements and site upgrades.
Board of Education Election
Two candidates are seeking election to the South Colonie Central School District Board of Education this year. Each position carries a five-year term ending June 30, 2031. Incumbent Christopher Larrabee is seeking re-election to his seat, and Jennifer Jones is running for the seat currently held by Robert Mesick. Both candidates are running unopposed.
Voting by Mail: Early & Absentee
If you cannot vote in person, you have two options to cast your ballot. You can apply to vote early by mail or apply for an absentee ballot.
Applications are available online at the District Office (102 Loralee Drive) or via District Clerk Amber Lanigan (lanigana@scolonie.org / 518-869-3576 ext. 0442).
Absentee Ballots
Available for voters who are unable to reach the polls due to illness, disability, hospitalization, or travel/business outside the county on election day.
Early Mail Ballots
Under the NY Early Mail Voter Act, any qualified voter may apply for an early mail ballot without providing a specific reason. Note: You may only apply for yourself. You cannot receive both an early mail and an absentee ballot.
Deadlines & Submission
- By Mail: Applications must be received by the District Clerk at least 7 days before the election.
- In-Person Pickup: Applications must be submitted at least 1 day before the election.
- Office Hours: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at 102 Loralee Drive, Albany.
Voter Eligibility: Must be a U.S. citizen, at least 18 years old, and a district resident for at least 30 days prior to the vote.