The proposed 2010-11 West Genesee Central School District budget calls for a 2.8 percent tax levy increase. The $69,938,455 budget would be distributed as follows: 75.06 percent for programs, 17.07 percent for the capital expenses, and 7.87 percent for administrative costs.
Voters will also determine whether or not to authorize the board to purchase eight passenger buses, two of which would include four wheelchair stations, at a total of not more than $838,430. The district currently receives 85 percent reimbursement for bus purchases over a five-year period.
Three three-year terms are up for grabs on the West Genesee board of education. Residents may vote for up to three candidates on May 18. The candidates are:
Karen M. Fruscello
202 E. Kimberly Drive, Syracuse
Academic intervention instructor at Roberts School in Syracuse
Husband, Dominic, is the “Voice of the Wildcats” and social studies teacher at WG; daughter, Maria, is a junior
Eucharistic minister and religious education instructor at Holy Family Church; consultant for YMCA programs; election inspector; 25 years of experience in education of diverse populations
“Today, I see a great school district that faces some difficult challenges and decisions. I believe my extensive background in education will be a great asset to the board and community during these difficult times.”
Vladimiro Hart-Zavoli
206 E. Arbordale Road, Syracuse
Helpdesk Operations with Syracuse City School District
Wife, Kathleen; son Jeremiah is a fifth-grader and daughter Olivia is a third-grader, both attend Onondaga Road Elementary School
“As a proud and concerned parent of two children working their way through our schools, I am consistently exploring innovative strategies that will foster their creativity and nurture a sense of community.”
Roberta M. Herron, incumbent
128 Peridot Dr., Syracuse
Senior business analyst at AXA Equitable
Husband Scott is also a WG graduate; twin sons Sean and Christopher attend Onondaga Road Elemntary School; daughter Julia is a seventh-grader at WGMS
Served on BoE committees; member of Onondaga Road and WGMS PTAs; Meals on Wheels of Syracuse volunteer; former WG marching band color guard instructor
“I feel that my enthusiasm and dedication will continue to be a beneficial asset to the already distinguished board and to West Genesee.”
Donna L. Scrimale, incumbent
2990 Warners Road, Warners
Vice President of finance and administration, Syracuse Symphony Orchestra
Husband, David; daughters Jessica and Kathleen and son Daniel all graduated from WG
Maxwell Memorial Library volunteer; religious education and vacation bible school teacher at St. Joseph’s Church; served on BoE committees; served as parent representative for various WG committees, past treasurer of Stonehedge PTA; classroom volunteer; Stonehedge library volunteer
“School districts are in the midst of extraordinary financial uncertainty, which requires careful attention to all fiscal matters.”
Neil B. Widrick
108 Munro Dr., Camillus
Manager of sleep labratory at St. Joseph’s Hospital Health Center
Wife, Arisa; son Benjamin is a freshman at WGHS; daughter Katherine is a seventh-grader at Camilllus Middle School
WOYSA Board of Directors; CYBA registrat, division director and coach; pit dad with WG marching band; Pastoral Research Committee member for Trinity Baptist Church
“West Genesee has an outstanding academic, athletic and fine arts program that my children have had the privilege of experiencing first hand. I wish to assist in any way I can to maintain this excellent program, especially with the financial, social and academic challenges we face in our future.”
Polls will be open from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday May 18 at the West Genesee High School auditorium for district residents to vote on the general budget, proposition and school board candidates.
Candidate information courtesy WG budget newsletter.
