Election 2011: Issue 6, CHUH Schools 6.9-Mill Levy

What: Issue 6, Cleveland Heights-University Heights City School District 6.9-mill levy

Election Day: Nov. 8

Ballot Language: An additional tax for the benefit of the Cleveland Heights-University Heights City School District for the purpose of current expenses, at a rate not exceeding 6.9 mills for each one dollar of valuation, which amounts to 69 cents for each one hundred dollars of valuation, for a continuing period of time, commencing in 2011, first due in calendar year 2012.

History: The Cleveland Heights-University Heights City School District put a 7.2-mill levy on the 2007 ballot, which passed. That money was supposed to last three years, but the district stretched it to four. The district says that 6.9-mills is the lowest levy amount it has requested in about 30 years. 

Argument For: If the levy doesn't pass, the district would be forced to cut at least $7 million from the budget. This levy would keep the CHUH schools operating at their current levels, and prevent layoffs. The district has already cut $6 million from the budget, and teachers, administrators and staff have agreed to forgo cost-of-living pay increases for two years. The proposed 6.9-mill levy is less than what the lay finance committee recommended, which was 7.2 mills.

Argument Against: The 6.9-mill levy will increase taxes by $211 every year for every $100,000 in property valuation. Opponents say the district's budget shortfalls shouldn't be carried by residents. 

Related Links

Cleveland Heights-University Heights Levy Campaign Website