The views stated here are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of the editors of this newspaper. We welcome supporting or opposing views on any published item. Received May 1, 2025.
Killingworth is facing a steep tax increase due to the proposed 2025–2026 budget for Regional School District 17 (RSD17). The total school budget is approximately $52.2 million, up nearly 5% from last year. Killingworth’s share is increasing by 8.42% to around $20.4 million, while Haddam’s share is rising by just 3.39% to $29.6 million.
This school spending now makes up about 79% of Killingworth’s total town expenditures. In comparison, our proposed town operating budget has decreased from $6 million to $5.4 million to help offset a projected shortfall of $3 million at our current mill rate. The school budget increase adds roughly 1.89 mills to our property tax rate.
Why is Killingworth’s share growing faster? According to October 1, 2024 enrollment data, our proportion of students in the District rose from 39.67% to 40.84% (702 students), while Haddam’s declined to 59.16% (1,017 students). This shift means Killingworth contributes about $1.7 million per month to RSD17—compared to Haddam’s $2.5 million—even as the total student population is shrinking, down 2.99% from last year (1,772 to 1,719 students).
What’s driving the budget increase? Primarily rising costs:
- Salaries are up 6.32% (~$1.6 million)
- Transportation is up 10.23% (~$440,000)
- Tuition for outplaced students is up 9.98% (~$298,000)
- Health Insurance is up 10%
These categories make up about 82% of the total school budget.
While we all support strong public schools and the education of our youth, the financial impact on Killingworth is increasing, especially as we face a tighter town budget, significant infrastructure needs, and a declining tax base.
The school budget referendum is Tuesday, May 6, 2025, from 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Killingworth Elementary School. Typically, only 15–20% of residents vote in these referenda. Your vote matters.
Absentee ballots for the May 6, 2025, RSD#17 School Budget Referendum are now available in the office of the Killingworth Town Clerk. Call 860-663-1765 ext. 502 for more information.
Please note: this vote is separate from a future financial request from RSD17 for a new high school, which is currently estimated to cost Killingworth approximately $100 million. That would be an additional expense beyond the current budget. Please take the time to review the budget and make your voice heard.
Eric Nunes, Selectman, Town of Killingworth
