With school budget votes in the Hudson Valley a week away, North Rockland homeowners are bracing for a possible 4.9 percent tax increase.

Over the past three years, the North Rockland Central School District has seen a slew of layoffs and tax increases as a direct result of the Lovett Power plant closing its doors and taking back millions in taxes.

"We've had to lay off at least 30 people, which brings our three-year total of layoffs approaching 100," says North Rockland School District Superintendent Brian Monahan.

Monahan says the district also continues to struggle over the closure of the Mirant Power Plant in Stony Point, which has cost North Rockland an estimated $18 million lost in tax revenue so far.

However, because of the way commercial and non-commercial taxes are applied, businesses are expected to see an almost 6 percent decrease in taxes this year.

Jean Hochron, the owner of Grandmas' Kids consignment shop, says he is struggling to stay afloat, so every little bit helps.

"Right now we need all the help we can get to stay in business," he says.

Voters will have the final say on the $189 million budget May 19.