Stark County CUSD 100 board adopts 7.99% tax levy after Truth in Taxation hearing

President Ann Orwig called the Truth in Taxation hearing as part of the Dec. 16 board meeting, and Superintendent Brett Elliott presented the rationale for the proposed levy increase. After public comment and board discussion, the board adopted the 2024 Tax Levy at a 7.99% increase and directed the superintendent to submit the certificate of levy to county clerks.

Two community members spoke during the hearing: one asked whether this would be an annual increase, and Elliott replied that the district sets a levy each year. Another resident opposed the increase, citing a declining county population and concern about long-term fiscal impact and stewardship at local government levels. President Ann Orwig said she "appreciated all of the conversations that the board has had and research they had done regarding the 2024 Tax Levy, while keeping the taxpayers in mind." The motion to adopt the levy was made by Orwig, seconded by Erin Price, and passed 5-2; Joseph Rediger and Brian Rewerts voted no.

Board Vice President Bruce West and other trustees said they compared levy options with neighboring districts to inform their recommendation. Superintendent Brett Elliott noted publicly that, historically, the district's levy increases have been below 4.99% and that, in his view, "the increase was half of what other local districts were increasing," commenting on how the district's proposal compared to peers.

The adoption requires the superintendent to file the levy certificate with county clerks; no further timeline for appeals or adjustments was specified at the meeting.