Bloomingdale Resident Scott Gibson Announces Run for SLCSD School Board. Here Is What He Is Running On.

Scott Gibson wants a seat on the Saranac Lake Central School District Board of Education. The Bloomingdale resident announced his candidacy on Facebook this week, and his priorities land squarely on the district’s most contested ground.

Gibson, who owns Adirondack Premium Pest Services, said he would focus on reversing enrollment decline, expanding special education services, and deciding what happens to the Bloomingdale Elementary School building after the district closes it. He is a Bloomingdale resident — the same hamlet whose elementary school is closing this year. His son currently attends Bloomingdale Elementary.

His professional background in pest control keeps him in regular contact with residents across the region, which he says gives him insight into community concerns that a typical board member might not have.

The Race

Gibson joins a race that already has two incumbents. Mike Martin and Joe Henderson are both seeking re-election to their seats. Two seats are open. Three candidates, two seats — meaning at least one incumbent will face a real challenge.

The SLCSD Board of Education has seven members serving staggered three-year terms. The two open seats carry three-year terms.

What’s on the Ballot May 19

Residents will vote on two things on May 19 — the school board seats and the district’s proposed $39.8 million budget.

The proposed budget carries a 0.74% tax levy increase — just under the state cap. It funds a district of approximately 1,037 students. The budget also includes a proposition to fund the Saranac Lake Free Library at $532,000.

A simple majority is needed to pass the budget. If it fails, the district adopts a contingency budget with a 0% levy increase and cuts to programs and services.

Voting is May 19, 8am to 8pm, Saranac Lake High School, Door 5. Residents must be registered in the district at their primary residence to vote.