FAQs
This page contains a list of some common questions and concerns in regards to school district levies in general, and the CHS district in particular.
Q: Why is the levy needed?
The proposed 8-millage levy aims to prevent a budget deficit for Cuyahoga Heights Schools by enhancing our funding. Split between a 7-mill operating levy and a 1-mill permanent improvement levy, it will support the district's daily operations and fund essential long-term improvements, especially considering declining revenues from phased-out taxes and an inequitable state funding model.
Q: What is a "mill"?
A: In Ohio, a "mill" signifies $1.00 in taxes for each $1,000 of a property's assessed value—essentially 35% of its market valuation. This proposal advocates an 8-mill increment.
Q: How exactly is the money going to be used?
A: The 7-millage segment will sustain our existing educational standards by supporting operational expenses and needs, ensuring the district can consistently exceed the excellence and traditions of this community without additional cuts or compromises to the quality of education. There is a significant need to fund the general maintenance and upgrades of our buildings.
Examples include:
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Stabilization of the Hillside Adjacent to the Pool + Natatorium/Ancillary Gym Renovation- $1,600,000
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High School Roof Repair- Over $900,000
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Annual Roof Maintenance- $250,000-$500,000 annually (we are two years behind due to lack of funding)
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Parking Lots and Playground Resurfacing- $150,000 per area
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Utilities (Electric, water, etc.)- $50,000-$75,000 annually
While only 1-mill is earmarked solely for critical capital enhancements, operating funds generated from a levy can be used to fund facility needs while permanent improvement funds generated from a levy cannot be used to fund general operating expenses.
Q: What will homeowners have to pay?
A: Costs for homeowners will vary based on home valuations. A home worth $100,000, for example, would equate to a $23.33 monthly expense, with the amount scaling according to assessed value.
For example(per MARKET VALUE):
- Home value of $100,000: $23.33/month
- Home value of $200,000: $46.66/month
- Home value of $300,000: $69.99/month
- Home value of $400,000: $93.32/month
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CLICK HERE to see how the cost of the levy to you is calculated.
Q: What will happen because it failed in November 2023?
A: Had the levy passed in November 2023, the school would have begun generating funds in 2024. This positive financial impact would have totaled $3.5 million in the 2024-2025 school year. Due to the loss, possible considerations include the total of closure of the indoor pool after it closes this season, the implementation of pay-to-play for sports and programs beginning in the fall of 2024, the inability to address critical repair needs like roof leaks and electrical issues, and increased student fees. 72% of our students participate in student activities and will be impacted by the fees. The school may also need to put levies on the ballot sooner than they have in the past.
Q: What will happen if it fails in March 2024?
A: If the levy fails in March, we will be unable to address critical repair needs like roof leaks and electrical issues. The board has authorized the Superintendent and Treasurer to recommend the reductions and/or decisions necessary to compensate for the levy failure. The Administration has committed to maintaining educational integrity while still operating at a deficit. We will continue to place levies on the ballot.
Q: What will be the benefits for the school and its students from the new levy?
A: The upcoming levy ensures consistent access to premium, tailored instruction for students. Additionally, it reserves funds for maintaining school infrastructure, a task once covered by tax abatement agreements—now only present with Charter Steel and NIDEC. The 7-mill portion caters to daily operational costs, learning programs, and resource acquisition, preserving the Cuyahoga Heights Schools' quality. The 1-mill segment addresses pressing infrastructure enhancements, tech acquisition, transportation, and equipment maintenance.
Q: Hasn't the new industry in Valley View, Cuyahoga Heights & Brooklyn Heights reduced the need for a levy?
A: While the new industry in Valley View is beneficial, its contribution to the district is only about $195,438, which is not nearly enough to cover the financial shortfall and the cost of necessary repairs and upgrades.
Q. What if I can't afford an increase to my taxes?
A: We understand that any increase in taxes can be a concern, especially for those on a fixed or limited income. It’s important to balance the needs of our schools with the financial realities of our residents. This levy has been carefully considered to minimize the impact on individual taxpayers while addressing critical needs in our schools. We encourage residents who are facing financial challenges to explore local tax relief programs that may offer assistance. Additionally, our goal with this levy is to invest in the future of our community, which can lead to broader economic benefits for all residents in the long term.
Q. How can I support the levy or get more involved?
A: Community support is invaluable. You can volunteer for the Levy Committee, join informational sessions about the levy, or help with community outreach. Don’t have the time? You can also make a financial donation to the Levy Committee Campaign to help support efforts in spreading the importance of the passage of this levy.
A: Given current financial trajectories and requirements, it was presented at the Finance Committee Meeting in April of 2023 and again in the Fall of 2023. The pandemic and ensuing economic hurdles further underscored the need for supplementary funding.
Q: How does CHS's funding stand in comparison to other districts?
A: Our district possesses the second-lowest tax base in Cuyahoga County. This levy aims to bolster our funding, enabling the provision of top-tier education while adeptly managing our budget.
Q: When is the vote scheduled?
A: The vote is slated for March 19, 2024. Early voting kicks off on February 21st, 2024. For a more detailed voting timetable and absentee ballot specifics, refer to the Cuyahoga County Board of Elections Voting Calendar.
Q: Where can I vote?
A: Voting options abound: in-person on Election Day, absentee by mail, or early in-person voting. For locations and further details, click here.
Q: How was the initial decision to post a levy made?
A: Given current financial trajectories and requirements, it was presented at the Finance Committee Meeting in April of 2023. The pandemic and ensuing economic hurdles further underscored the need for supplementary funding.
Q: What's the school district's current financial status?
A: At this time, the school district remains financially solid with zero debt. However, additional funding is anticipated to avert an impending deficit, hence the levy proposition.
Q: How can the community be confident the funds will be used as indicated?
A: The Board of Education, along with the Finance Committee, rigorously monitors the budget through regular reports and annual audits, guaranteeing adherence to Ohio School Finance Laws and alignment with our 5-Year forecast.
Q: How were the last levy's funds utilized and monitored?
A: The 2012 7.9 mills operating levy was channeled into the General Fund. While initially anticipated to last between 4-5 years, astute financial management allowed the district to operate and elevate its services for 11 years without needing further levies.