Voters in Weare will see a proposed $18.71 million operating budget for the town’s two schools, an increase of $231,000 or 1.25%, at the school district deliberate session on Wednesday, Feb. 7.

If the budget passes the school tax rate would increase from $7.58 per $100,000 valuation to $8.28, and it would increase to $8.98 if voters also approve a new teachers’ contract. That translates into an increase of $490 in the annual property bill of a $350,000 house.

Among major factors affecting the budget according to staff presentations are estimated $51,000 increase in health insurance costs, reflecting an increase in premiums of up to 12%, a $184,000 increase in special education tuition and $95,000 in special education transportation due to the need to place three students out of district; and a $64,000 increase in the district’s regular transportation contract.

A separate warrant article will cover a proposed two-contract for the teacher’s union.

The first year would see average increases of between 10% and 23%, adding from $4,500 to $23,000 more per year, depending on a teacher’s seniority and education. Those already at the maximum would get a 3.5% increase, averaging $2,600.

The second year of the contract would offer an average 8% increase for everyone.

The estimated cost of the contract would be an extra $901,000 the first year and $369,000 the second.

The contract also gives the district the ability to implement a longer school day in the future.

The district covers both Center Woods Elementary School and Weare Middle School.

A more complete explanation is available in a video taken from the budget hearing, hosted on YouTube.

The deliberative session begins at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 7, in the cafeteria of Weare Middle School, 16 East Road. Warrant articles will be discussed and can be amended at the deliberative session. They will be voted on by ballot on election day, March 12.