On Tuesday, May 20, Shelter Islanders will get the chance to vote on four propositions on the school ballot. Proposition 4 asks: “Shall the Board of Education of the Shelter Island Union Free School District, Suffolk County, New York, authorize an annual appropriation of $275,000 for operational and maintenance expenses of the Shelter Island History Museum for the fiscal year 2025-2026 and to levy the necessary tax, therefore?” We are asking you to vote YES on the proposition.
There are many reasons why the SIHM is seeking taxpayer support. First, we cannot fulfill our mission – to “welcome and connect our community by exploring our shared history through exhibits, research, educational programs and performances” – without sustainable, reliable funding. Second, we are so grateful for the generosity of our friends and patrons, however the amounts raised through donations are unpredictable and often not enough to cover basic expenses for heat, electricity, insurance, staff, security and the like, which cost more than $36,000 a month. Third, we also receive grants, however, they are time-sensitive, never a guarantee and are targeted for specific donor-designated projects. Finally, without public funding, the Museum cannot enhance its community services by expanding free programs and exhibits year-round.
The $275,000 requested is 63% of our annual operating budget of $434,000. The Museum tax rate would be $0.0433 per thousand dollars of assessed valuation. If your property is assessed at $1,00,000, for example, the total increase on your 2025-26 tax bill would be $43.30. A house assessed at $2,000,000 would see an increase of $86.60. Our proposition – Proposition 4 – affects only Museum funding and has no impact on the school budget.
Voting takes place May 20, from noon to 9 p.m. at the Shelter Island School Gymnasium. All registered voters who reside in the Shelter Island School District are eligible to cast their ballots. Anyone wishing to register can do so from 2 to 6 p.m. on May 8 in the school lobby. Absentee ballots can be requested from the school district beginning April 20; they must be received by the School District Clerk no later than 5 p.m. on May 20 for your vote to count.
Further information and frequently asked questions will be posted on our website, https://www.shelterislandhistorymuseum.org. Your Museum thanks you in advance for your support. Help us make history!
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