School Levy Clarification

This week I have been investigating the upcoming levy for Strongsville schools on the November 6th ballot (Issue 8). I want to be sure that I understand the millage and term. I was looking for some language to explain to Strongsville's citizens that this levy, if passed, will be permanent. In checking, I found that the wording on the ballot "for a continuing period of time" means that this will be a permanent levy. After receiving a postcard in the mail from the Levy Committee without this information listed, I thought it might be useful for the voters in Strongsville to know what the ballot wording means, so I am sharing this information with you.

I must think carefully about adding a permanent addition to my property tax bill of ~$50.00/month. In my opinion, it is best for the schools to come back to the voters from time-to-time and explain the need for a future levy rather than attach a permanent tax to our already increasing property taxes. I hope that all Strongsville voters will also consider this carefully. It is fine to say to prospective buyers, when we sell our home, that Strongsville has excellent schools but not if the increased property taxes (along with rising interest rates) puts your home out of reach for purchase. Something to consider.

I have always supported Strongsville schools and education in general, but this is a serious permanent increase that must be carefully considered. In the past, we had a levy fail for the high millage and "permanent" status written into it. The levy was re-worded, millage dropped, and a term applied so that it passed on a later ballot. We don't have to accept a levy as written and without careful thought. This does not mean that we don't want to support our schools, only that we want to do so responsibly.