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BROOME COUNTY, N.Y. -- Taxpayers in the Union-Endicott School District got their first glimpse at what will be another tough year financially.

U-E held the first of four budget workshops Wednesday evening. The presentation set goals for the next school year.

Benefits will be the biggest challenge. If U-E keeps all programs and services it currently offers and pairs it with rising benefit costs, taxpayers could face more than an 8.5 percent increase.

Going forward, district officials will have the tough task of balancing taxpayers’ needs, while still providing an education that's essential for their students.

"In this 21st century economy, we have a moral obligation to makes sure that the students we educate here at Union-Endicott are prepared to go out and compete in a global economy," said Superintendent Dr. Suzanne McLeod.

Budget numbers will likely change when U-E learns exactly how much state aid it will receive later this year.

The next budget workshop will be held on February 6th at the district offices.