Business Office
Frequently Asked Questions
Understanding Your 2026–27 School Tax Bill & District Budget
The Richfield Springs Central School District serves property owners across six towns. For the 2026–27 school year, the approved district budget is $15,314,764 (an increase of 4.56%), supported by $8,797,712 in state aid and a total school tax levy of $4,575,872 (a 10.03% increase).
Key Financial Details for Property Owners:
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Why did the tax levy increase 10.03%? While New York’s property tax cap is often called the "2% cap," it is calculated using a complex formula that adjusts for growth and eligible capital expenses. The district’s allowable capital exemption increased by $326,444 this year, setting the maximum allowable levy at $4,576,217. The final levy ($4,575,872) remains within the state's legal tax cap formula.
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Does a 10.03% levy increase mean my tax bill goes up by 10.03%? No. The tax levy is the overall sum collected across all six towns combined. Individual tax bills vary depending on your town, your property's taxable assessment, local equalization rates set by New York State, and individual exemptions like STAR.
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Library Levy Notice: A separate levy of $213,903 for the Richfield Springs Public Library was approved directly by voters. The school district collects these funds on behalf of the library, but it is separate from the school district budget.
For a full breakdown of tax rates per $1,000 of assessed value by town, please click on the link above titled ‘Understanding Your Tax Bill’ or contact the Business Office with questions at 315- 858-0610 ext. 1011.