2026-27 Budget Vote and Election

2026-27 Budget Total: $163,356,748

Appropriations 
Administrative: $13,375,193
Program: $110,086,482
Capital: $39,895,073
Total: $163,356,748

The following are estimates of revenue for the proposed budget. By state law, school districts must present a balanced budget (approximations = revenue) to the voters.

Revenues
Property Tax: $64,222,877
Other Property Tax Items: $896,545
Erie County Sales Tax: $8,850,000
State Aid (Various Types): $57,268,679
Interfund Transfers: $10,000
Local Revenues: $4,257,837

Use of Fund Balance
Use of Reserve Funds: $24,385,047
Appropriated Surplus: $3,465,763

At the April 21, 2026, board of education meeting, trustees adopted a $163.35 million spending plan that maintains all current educational offerings, instructional programs, and staffing.  The budget reflects an increase of 15.73% percent and comes with 2.97% increase in the tax levy.

2026-27 Budget Details and Required Budget Notices
 

Budget Work Session #1: February 9, 2026

Budget Work Session #2: March 9, 2026

Budget Work Session #3: April 13, 2026

Mr. Talarico has called the Lancaster School District home for 15 years, and for the past 7 years has proudly served the community as a member of the Board of Education. As a Lancaster parent, he has embraced every opportunity to be present and engaged. From volunteering at PTO events to cheering on students at concerts, performances, and school presentations. Witnessing the district's programs in action at the ground level has only deepened his commitment to the community he serves.

With a background as a local business owner, Mr. Talarico brings a practical understanding of organizational leadership, fiscal responsibility, and decision-making to the board table. Throughout his tenure, he has applied this expertise to the district's planning and budgeting processes, and has served in key roles including the Health Care Committee, Audit Committee, and School Safety Committee, as well as holding voting delegate rights with the New York State School Boards Association (NYSSBA). He most recently stepped into the role of Board President, a position that has expanded his understanding of school administration and reinforced his passion for meaningful, collaborative leadership.

Mr. Talarico is seeking re-election to build on the progress Lancaster has made and to keep the district moving forward. From landmark Capital projects that have united the community, to preserving and growing the outstanding educational, artistic, and athletic programs that Lancaster families count on. He remains focused on the work ahead.

At home, Mr. Talarico has been married for 16 years to his wife Jennifer, a dedicated educator who has taught in the Buffalo Public Schools and now serves as a Professional Development Specialist at BOCES. Together, they are the proud parents of a daughter currently in 6th grade at William Street Elementary. Having a child in the district gives Mr. Talarico a personal investment in Lancaster's success and a firsthand perspective on the hopes and concerns of local families. He takes great pride in the relationships he has built with students, parents, and staff. He remains committed to being an accessible, engaged, and forward-thinking leader for the Lancaster community.

My name is Katie Pirro, and I am honored to be a candidate for the Lancaster School Board. I’m a proud Depew Wildcat now raising the next generation of Lancaster Legends.

My husband, John, is a train engineer for CSX, and we have three sons in the Lancaster Central School District. Dominic is a fourth grader at William Street, Ben is in a self-contained third grade classroom at Sciole Elementary, and Sam is a kindergartener at Hillview Elementary.

As the parent of a child with special needs, I have firsthand experience navigating the school system, advocating for services, and working closely with educators to ensure my child is supported and able to thrive. I understand the importance of individualized support, clear communication, and strong collaboration between families and schools. I have participated in important conversations, celebrated meaningful progress, and worked through challenges alongside dedicated educators—strengthening my commitment to ensuring every child is seen, supported, and able to reach their full potential.

Professionally, I serve as a Senior Development Manager with the American Cancer Society, where I focus on community engagement, relationship building, and fundraising. I hold a Bachelor of Arts in Communication and Political Science from the University at Buffalo and bring more than 20 years of experience in nonprofit and healthcare-related organizations.

I have been actively involved in the Hillview PTO for the past five years and currently serve as a district PTO representative, helping lead events and initiatives that support students and teachers.

I am a firm believer that it truly takes a village. The teachers and mentors in my own life helped shape who I am, and I see that same impact every day in the lives of my children.

If elected, I will focus on listening, working collaboratively, and ensuring every child and family has the opportunities needed to succeed. It would be an honor to serve this community and our schools.

Mr. Timothy Talbot resides in Lancaster with his wife, Jaimie, an alumna, and his son Oliver (8) and daughter Eleanor (5). Oliver is currently attending 2nd grade and Eleanor is attending kindergarten. Tim is excited to continue his involvement in the Lancaster school district and believes that an investment in knowledge provides the best interest.

Tim Talbot runs a financial planning practice called Attain Wealth Planning with a team of 5. In his work, he helps individuals and families plan for their financial futures and navigate important life decisions with confidence.

Mr. Talbot’s main goal with joining the Lancaster School Board is to support the Lancaster Central School District and provide each student with the best opportunity and with the tools that allow them to succeed. He plans on continuing to do this by collaborating with the board and administration in order to make sound and educated decisions on what is best for the district, community, and students.

Timothy Talbot holds his degree in Business Administration and maintains multiple professional licenses in the finance industry. Tim enjoys spending his free time with his family, playing sports, and watching the Bills and Sabres. He also is involved with WNY Make-A-Wish and is active in providing help to those in need.

Mr. Talbot is currently in his third year serving on the Lancaster School Board and serves as Vice President. He believes that his background in finance and planning will continue to be an asset
to the Lancaster School Board.