Cuyahoga Falls board adopts statement of facts for Nov. levy renewal

The Cuyahoga Falls City School District Board of Education on Sept. 11 adopted a statement of facts to accompany a renewal of the district's 7.9-mill emergency levy, placing the question before voters in the Nov. 2024 election.

District finance staff told the board the levy generates roughly $5.8 million annually, about 9.5% of operating revenue, and that renewing it as a continuing levy preserves a state homeowner tax credit provided under House Bill 59. Treasurer staff said that if the current levy lapses and the district later seeks replacement funding, any new money would lose the state tax-credit and shift an up-to-12.5% burden onto local taxpayers.

The statement of facts, prepared following recent guidance from the auditor of state, lays out how the district would use levy funds for operations such as building systems (air conditioning, roofing), transportation (buses and vans), technology and staffing. Presenters also reviewed the district's fiscal forecast and warned that, without renewal, the district could face larger deficits and required corrective plans to the Ohio Department of Education.

Board members praised the statement's plain-language approach. "It's user-friendly and easy for people to read and understand," one member said during the presentation. The resolution directing district personnel to use the statement as a guide was moved, seconded and approved by roll call; the transcript records unanimous aye votes by those present.

Next steps include posting the statement to the district website (the board noted that the statement is the only levy-related material permitted on the site) and making the materials available in superintendent and finance communications.