“We can not afford the high tax rates”
By Martha McGee, Wellsville
To the Wellsville BOE, Superintendent of Schools and School Business Administrator
After watching the recent BOE meeting on January 6, 2026, I am deeply concerned about the large surplus of funds the school has and the fact that this is not in compliance with NYS law. Dr. Gilfert stated in his address to the board that according to the most recent audit the tax levy is in excess of what is allowed under NYS law so the taxes were higher than the legal limit.
According to the WCS website the mission statement states:
“Our mission is to prepare our students to be successful, contributing members of their communities through excellence in education.”
How is sitting on $4.5 million in surplus funds fulfilling this mission? How is it beneficial to our community? This is taxpayers’ money you are holding on to, not the Board of Education’s. As Dr. Gilfert stated, this money needs to be returned to the tax payers by lowering the school tax levy and tax rates.
Wellsville has been hit hard economically in recent years. We cannot afford the high tax rates especially when it is to fund a “slush” fund.
Sincerely,
Martha McGee
Wellsville resident and taxpayer
