Preliminary $98 Million Budget Approved

The budget season is in full gear now as the North Kingstown Town Council approved its preliminary budget for the fiscal 2014 year on Monday night. The $98,153,118 is the launching point for the remainder of the budget process and is subject to change from now until the final budget ratification sometime in May.

The preliminary budget fully funds the school department’s budget increase request of about $1.6 million. The council did, however, deny a request to fund the school’s capital improvement with $500,000 and instead allotted $0 in the initial budget. On Thursday, March 28, the council will meet to discuss the school’s side of the budget and whether or not to fully fund the school department.

The general fund will increase by about $435,000 in the preliminary budget. Overall, the preliminary budget will increase the tax levy by 2.95 percent – resulting in an increase of $171 for the average home in North Kingstown, valued at around $310,000.

Aside from the March 28 meeting, the council and school committee both have several meetings regarding the budget between now and the final adoption in May. On Monday, Apr. 8 both bodies will hold budget hearings at the Beechwood Senior Center. On Monday, Apr. 29 the council will consider budget petitions. The final budget adoption is slated for May 1.