Voter Poll: Chances Bond Levy Passes '50-50 At Best'

Cleveland Heights - University Heights Schools has mixed chances to pass a $134.8 million bond levy in November, according to findings of a voter poll commissioned by the school district.

In its findings, Triad Research Group says the district will have a challenge convincing voters to support the bond issue, and that an effective campaign is necessary to convince supporters to head to the polls. 

"Based on these results, the chances of passing this $134.8 million bond issue are about 50-50 at best," Triad writes, later adding: "A very strong campaign effort will be needed to convert voters' willingness to support the bond issue into action, i.e. voting for it."

The $134.8 million bond issue would pay the majority of the cost of renovating Cleveland Heights High School and two middle schools.

Of the 400 voters surveyed by telephone, only 18 percent said they would definitely vote for the bond levy. Another 35 percent said the would probably vote for the levy.

Another 8 percent told pollsters they were initially undecided or were against the levy, but became positive as they learned more information about it from the surveyors.

Of those surveyed, 30 percent were firmly against the levy, and another 5 percent became more negative as they learned more information.

Supporters said they would vote for the levy because they "always support the schools," have children in the schools, because the schools needed to be renovated and that it would be good for property values.

Still, 10 percent of supporters said they have concerns about the plan, including the cost and the impact on property taxes.

The cost of the levy was the primary reason given by those who oppose the levy. Others said they believe the schools waste money and don't spend it wisely, the schools need to improve the education results first or that they don't agree with the plan, including the decision to close schools.

Triad made a number of recommendations to the school district based on the results of the survey. They include:

• The district should consider reducing the bond issue to increase the chances of passing it.
• Form a citizen committee to monitor spending from the bond issue.
• Consider only renovating the high school at this time and wait to improve the middle schools.

Survey Methodology: