During a recent school board meeting in Perrysburg, Ohio, Superintendent Hauser addressed critical issues affecting the district, particularly the potential financial impact of an upcoming levy vote. Hauser emphasized that if the levy fails, the district could face an immediate loss of $13.5 million annually, accumulating to a staggering $108 million over the levy’s lifespan. He highlighted that this financial shortfall would significantly hinder the district's ability to serve its students effectively.
Hauser noted that while the community is experiencing growth with new homes and businesses, the revenue generated from property taxes is not sufficient to meet the district's needs, largely due to House Bill 920, which limits tax increases. He pointed out that despite these challenges, Perrysburg Schools continue to achieve above-average results while spending below the state average.
The superintendent also reflected on the importance of focusing on students amidst discussions about finances and statistics, urging the board and community to remember the primary goal of education. He expressed concern that the potential loss of funding would have a direct negative impact on student services and educational quality.
Board members acknowledged the smooth start to the school year, crediting the hard work of administrators and staff in managing typical challenges such as transportation and lunchroom coordination. The meeting concluded with an invitation for further questions and comments from board members, indicating a collaborative approach to addressing the district's pressing issues.