Voters in Highland Falls voted no Tuesday to their district's school budget, which called for a double-digit tax hike.

Residents say they had little choice, since the district was asking for a 24 percent tax increase. District officials say because they depend heavily on federal aid and don't know how much it will be prior to the vote, they are forced to ask for a high increase.

The situation is not that uncommon to residents. They say they hope the federal government comes through with the needed funding.

The budget goes up for a vote again June 19.