UPDATE: Voters in Parma, Parma Heights, and Seven Hills have decisively defeated a proposed school district operating levy for the second time in just six months. The unofficial results from the Cuyahoga County Board of Elections show a resounding 57.59% of voters, or 12,097 ballots, against the levy, compared to 8,907 votes, or 42.41%, in favor.
This operating levy, known as Issue 49, would have cost homeowners an estimated $20.13 per month and raised nearly $23,131,939 annually to support the district through 2030. However, the community’s rejection of additional tax funding raises urgent questions about the future financial health of the Parma City Schools.
Superintendent Scott Hunt, who was hopeful prior to the election, expressed understanding of the outcome. “I’m not surprised we didn’t make it through,” he stated. “It’s pretty difficult on the first try.” Hunt noted the extensive effort by a steering committee dedicated to promoting the need for this levy.
The district has not passed a new operating levy since 2011, and previous attempts in 2017 and 2018 also failed. “Our budget keeps us above our cash reserve policy this year, but we must now discuss potential adjustments,” Hunt said. These discussions will focus on critical areas such as staffing levels, programs, transportation, and the cost of participation in school activities.
The superintendent also hinted at the potential for future levy proposals, stating, “The finances aren’t going to look any better in May than they do right now.” This indicates that the community may face similar decisions in the coming months as the board of education evaluates financial strategies.
In addition to the levy defeat, the election featured a race for the Parma City Schools Board of Education, where candidates Leah Euerle, Nick Reyes, and Tammie Sebastian ran unopposed for three open seats, receiving 8,442, 8,240, and 8,169 votes, respectively. Board members earn $125 per meeting with a maximum annual compensation of $5,000.
As the community processes this significant election outcome, residents are left grappling with the implications for their schools and the future of education in the area.
