GREENVILLE – A proposed $3.18 million education budget that requires $54,247 less in 2004-05 from property taxes than last year will be presented for adoption at the annual town meeting in June.

Even though the budget seeks less from property taxes, the overall budget reflects an increase over last year of $127,937, according to Superintendent Dr. Stephen Pound. Increases are shown in fuel costs of $1,000; library needs of $3,000; maintenance supplies and equipment needs of $10,200; legal costs of $18,000 due to negotiations; salaries that reflect a 3 percent increase and benefits that reflect a 15 percent increase; and $26,560 in special services such as speech and occupational therapy.

“We’re hopefully moving on and doing at least as good a program with the money we have for next year – if not better – from the standpoint that we hopefully will be able to restructure and add some options,” Pound said.

On the plus side, the Greenville School Department anticipates a $56,000 Isolation Grant.

Pound said about $100,000 in savings was made in the instruction budget, and a similar amount was made by reducing costs in the elementary and secondary principal’s office. He said three teachers are retiring and another is relocating. By restructuring, two of the positions will not be replaced, he said.

The proposed budget provides adequate resources for current programs and new initiatives, yet is sensitive and responsive to the local economy, according to Pound. He said he was pleased with the participation from staff, students, board members, budget advisory committee members and selectmen in the process.