As lawmakers begin to hammer out the details of the state’s record $53.1 billion spending plan, the first budget hearing took place Tuesday at Ramapo College, where nonprofits, interest groups and service organizations had a chance to give their input.
“I come before you today to respectfully request that the Legislature increase state funding for the Red Cross from the $1 million in the budget to $2 million to help us to continue to enhance vital services,” said Rosie Taravella, regional CEO of American Red Cross-New Jersey.
The hearing featured an animated discussion about the school funding formula and school systems that have lost state aid even after — or especially after — the Senate voted Monday to approve restoring $102 million to selected districts.
“We’ve cut 112 positions. I’ve cut over 15% of my administrative staff. We are the lowest-spending district in Monmouth County even though we are supposed to be the most expensive district having only high school students,” said Chuck Sampson, superintendent of the Freehold Regional High School District.
