Wells school leaders present $2.1 million budget increase; net tax impact estimated at 2.54%

Superintendent Dailyaly and Assistant Superintendent Cole presented the Consolidated School District’s proposed budget to the Wells Select Board on April 7, saying the district faces a $2.1 million increase for the coming year but will apply about $1.3 million in one‑time funds to reduce the net tax impact.

Dailyaly said the gross budget rise is 6.68%, driven by higher insurance costs, a state family medical leave tax, and increases in special‑education costs and enrollment. He told the board that after using carryover funds the net tax impact would be about 2.54%, which the presentation translated to roughly $15 a year on a $500,000 home.

The superintendent emphasized that the district received a modest increase in state aid due to slightly higher enrollment and special‑education counts and noted recent capital work: roof replacements, a new field at the junior high and other facility investments. He said the district remains focused on keeping class sizes low and preserving programs.

Select Board members thanked the administration and asked for the presentation slides in advance of future discussions because the packet contained many figures that are hard to absorb during a single meeting. The board did not take formal action on the budget at the meeting; the presentation served as the public explanation ahead of the upcoming budget hearing and the referendum vote noted by the superintendent.