Voters decide on reduced levy for Hubbard schools

By Sarah Lehr | April 18, 2017 at 12:05a.m.

HUBBARD

Voters will again weigh in on additional taxation for the Hubbard school district.

The proposed five-year, 4.8-mill levy is an operating levy, meaning it is a tax to meet current expenses. Proponents say the levy is necessary to avoid an operating deficit.

If approved by voters during the May 2 primary, the levy would generate $986,000 annually and cost the owner of a $100,000 home $168 each year.

Close to 55 percent of 6,827 district voters rejected a heftier version of the tax during the November general election.

The failed 10-year, 7.1-mill levy would have raised $1.44 million annually and cost the owner of a $100,000 home $248.50 a year.

Proponents said the tax would have offset state funding cuts to the district under the administration of Republican Gov. John Kasich.

After the defeat of the 7.1-mill levy, district officials cite the implementation of cost-cutting measures to trim about $453,000 from the $22 million yearly budget.

Officials have projected the district will save $343,000 by not replacing employees who will retire at the end of this school year. Additionally, the district points to a $60,000 annual reduction in spending on materials and supplies and a $50,000 annual savings due to renegotiation of vendor and service contracts.

The district employs about 225 people and enrolls close to 2,000 students.

Chris Colella, treasurer of a citizens’ committee in favor of the levy, said he is hopeful voters will approve the new tax measure, which involves both a shorter time frame and reduced millage.

“We’ve heard what the voters have to say,” Colella said. “This is really a need-based levy to maintain the excellent level of education that we have in Hubbard.”

If the 4.8-mill levy fails, Colella said, the district may make cuts to staff and busing services. Colella also raised the possibility of added fees for participating in athletics.

The levy committee has a website at www.hubbardlevy2017.com.

Early in-person voting began April 4 and will continue until May 1.