Stark County board urges support for Issue 1 to preserve services for residents with developmental disabilities

Miss Dunwood, chief financial officer and business manager for the Stark County Board of Developmental Disabilities, asked the East Canton Village Council during public comment to support Issue 1 on the November ballot, saying the measure funds services for people with developmental disabilities across the county. Dunwood said the board "touches the lives of over 5,000 individuals across our county, including about 65 residents right here in Scranton," and described the board as "life planners, advocates, and watchdogs." She said the proposal on the ballot is a new levy of 1.6 mills and that, for a homeowner with a market value of $100,000, it would cost about $56 annually. The Stark County board provides early intervention, specialized preschool programs and services that help people live and work in the community, Dunwood said. “Our goal is not just a good life for people with developmental disabilities, but a great one,” she said, adding that the board has grown 43% in service population over the past decade and costs have increased about 140% in that time. Dunwood warned that passage of Issue 1 is important to avoid cuts. “Its passage is critical. Without it, we face painful cuts to the services that thousands rely on,” she said during the meeting. She also asked council members to be aware of the campaign and thanked them for their time. Council members asked clarifying questions about whether the levy is a renewal or an increase; Dunwood replied it is a new levy reflecting system changes and not a straight renewal. She said materials will be mailed and lawn signs will appear in the campaign period. Ending Council members did not take formal action on the public comment; the remarks were recorded under public comment. The ballot language and official levy schedule are set by county election officials; Dunwood directed voters to watch for the county’s materials in advance of the November election.