The Clarkstown School District’s tax rate for 2011 – 2012 is 2.29 percent. The board approved the tax levy at Wednesday’s special meeting. It is approximately the same amount that was discussed at the district’s budget planning meetings.

“When we went through the budget talks, we promised a 2.30 percent tax levy,” said John LaNave, director of fiscal management for the district.

The board members sign the tax warrant which is then delivered to the Clarkstown Receiver of Taxes. The district expects to collect taxes totaling $141,540,049 plus receive state and federal aid. Those monies plus $200,000 from its surplus fund will finance the almost $174 million budget for the 2011- 2012 school year.

The budget reinstates funding for athletic programs and academic competitions and maintains current staffing levels.

Superintendent Margaret Keller-Cogan said the district will be receiving an award for energy stewardship in the near future. Four years ago the district began an energy conservation program and over the past several years has saved an estimated $909,000. All schools except Felix Festa Middle School earned an energy rating.

The board announced its next meeting on Thursday, August 18 will streamed almost live. There will be a 30 second delay. Meetings have been available online. Clarkstown North PTA President Rhea Vogel said no meetings had been posted online since May 5 and was told the site would be updated.

Parents asking about the principal vacancy at West Nyack Elementary School learned candidates were being interviewed.