Schools Warn Richland County Commissioners About Potential Cuts

Bradd Stevens, treasurer of Madison Local Schools, addressed the Richland County Board of Commissioners on Thursday morning, expressing grave concerns over potential property tax reductions.

 

Stevens warned that such cuts could leave the district with a negative cash balance by year's end.

 

"Mr. (Pat) Dropsey, (Richland County Auditor), knows we can't do that. That's not certifiable," Stevens stated.

 

Madison Superintendent Rob Peterson echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that public education in Ohio is under attack from the state level.

 

"I just ask the three of you (commissioners), with this vote, that you not allow that to filter down to the local level," Peterson urged.

 

The meeting saw attendance from approximately 70 to 80 individuals representing various county entities reliant on property tax funds.

 

Recent state legislation has granted counties the authority to expand Homestead exemptions and 2.5% owner-occupancy credits without state assistance to offset the lost revenue.

 

Commissioners must decide by the end of October, with any tax reductions taking effect on January 1.

 

Commissioner Tony Vero indicated that another public meeting would be scheduled to further discuss the matter.

 

"I think we need to process it, look at the numbers, and give residents an opportunity to reach out to us as well," Vero said.

 

He acknowledged the challenge of balancing the potential harm to local schools with residents seeking property tax relief.

 

Mansfield City Schools Treasurer Tammy Hamilla highlighted the significant impact of the proposed tax cuts on her district, estimating a potential loss of around $956,000 per year in operating revenue.

 

For Madison Local Schools, the loss could be approximately $670,000.

 

Randy Harvey, treasurer of Ontario Local Schools, expressed strong opposition to the reductions.

 

"This is not how to do it," Harvey said. "It's going to destroy the schools."

 

Ontario Local Schools could face a loss of around $461,000 annually, while nearby Lexington could lose approximately $686,000.

 

Lexington Local Schools Treasurer Jason Whitesel remarked on the broader implications.

 

"Whether intentional or unintentional, and we may all have our own opinion on it, the decimation of public education is what is happening here," Whitesel said.

 

Several other officials from local school districts attended the meeting, underscoring the widespread concern over the proposed tax reductions.

 

Commissioners are tasked with making a decision that balances the need for property tax relief with the potential adverse effects on local education and public services.

 

As the deadline approaches, the community awaits further discussions and decisions that will shape the future of Richland County's educational landscape.