Mill Creek MetroParks board votes to put levy on November ballot

July 1, 2015 at 12:00a.m.

YOUNGSTOWN

In a 3-2 decision, the Mill Creek MetroParks Board of Park Commissioners approved a motion to put a levy renewal with additional millage on the November ballot.

Board president Lou Schiavoni and Commissioner John Ragan voted no.

Commissioners Scott Schulick, Germaine Bennett and Dr. Robert Durick voted yes. They and nonboard members present at Tuesday’s board meeting spoke in support of the option recommended by Executive Director Aaron Young.

That option is a 1.75-mill renewal of the park system’s current 15-year levy, approved in 2001, paired with an additional 0.25-mills. The owner of a $100,000 home would pay $58.99 per year, up from $50.24.

Young said this option was preferable to three others the board had before it: a 1.75-mill renewal, a 1.75-mill replacement and a 2-mill replacement with additional millage.

“We have to answer the question, what option provides the best balance of providing Mill Creek MetroParks with adequate long-term sustainability potential while minimizing the financial impact to residents?” he said. “It’s [this] option.”

If approved by voters, the levy will generate approximately $7,525,080 annually, which represents $998,074 in new funding. Young detailed 15-year projections for the different levy options; this one would generate $14,971,110 in additional funds over that period.

Young highlighted how the park system’s levy-generated general fund revenue has dropped over the last 10 years, for a net decrease of $611,922. He also discussed the $29 million in improvements planned for the park over the next 15 years.

“Decisions that we make today will impact us in 2030,” he said.

Schiavoni, however, said that while he understands the park system needs money, he doesn’t think it’s the right time to ask for additional funds.

Ragan agreed, asking, “Are we taxing people out of their homes?”

They said the park system should look at alternative funding options, and consider charging fees for some events that now are free to the public. They also expressed concerns about the number of levies Mahoning County voters will see on the ballot in November.

Several park system department heads spoke in favor of Young’s recommendation.

“I think people love their park. I think people are willing to support their park,” Schulick said.