The Region 4 Budget passed by a collective “Yes” vote of 61.5 percent between the towns of Chester, Deep River, and Essex. Both Chester and Essex residents passed the vote in favorably; Chester passed the measure 57 to 26 and Essex had stronger support with a 134 to 36 vote.

However, Deep River sang a different tune, with 102 “No” votes to just 72 in favor.

In total, the budget, which has a net billing to towns of $18,479,917 was passed 263 to 164.

“The Region 4 Board of Education worked hard with the administration to create a fiscally responsible budget that meets the needs of all of our students’ district wide,” said Superintendent of Schools Ruth Levy. “I am extremely pleased.”

Of this 2015-’16 budget, salaries account for 51.51 percent of total expenditures, employee benefits make up 12.81 percent, debt service accounts for 9.79 percent, and superintendent’s staffing recommendation makes up 0.17 percent of the budget.

The net billings increase to towns is 2.21 percent, or $399,933, with one new position and an upgrade included for a certified paraeducator special education position, which accounts for $23,576 of the budget increase, with an additional $9,333 for this position’s benefits.

Surplus in last year’s budget allowed for $270,000 to be put into the sinking fund and a savings of $60,000 in heating fuel costs were realized, by locking into a fixed rate for the year.

The budget covers expenditures for the district’s two regional schools, John Winthrop Middle School and Valley Regional High School. The Region 4 budget is divided among the three towns based on each town’s student enrollment at the two regional schools.