Tallmadge Schools seek 5.6-mill levy increase; Taxpayers say ‘No’; New funding plan needed

TALLMADGE – Tallmadge School District officials defended a 5.6-mill property tax levy increase ahead of the May 5 Primary Election, arguing the district “does not have a spending issue, but a funding issue” driven by rising operating costs and declining state revenue support.

State Representatives Derrick Hall (D-Akron) and Heidi Workman (R-Rootstown) addressed a packed audience of administrators, teachers, support staff, and taxpayers. Also attending were former Hudson Mayor Craig Shubert, now a candidate for the Ohio House’s 34th District seat, and former Summit County Councilwoman Gloria Rodgers, who now serves as an at-large member of the Ohio State Board of Education. Both listened as residents voiced concerns about the proposed increase, which would be added to the 34 mills already funded

by local taxpayers.

Craig Shubert speaks with State Board of Education member Gloria Rodgers with Tallmadge City Councilman Jonathon Bollas listening.

Tallmadge leaders say they previously reduced administrative positions to avoid cuts to classroom teaching staff. They warned that school transportation could face reductions if the levy fails.

Hall blamed the district’s financial strain on increases in school voucher funding and the effects of House Bill 920, which governs how school districts receive state aid. He said the state’s share has declined from 38% in 1997 to 32% today. Workman praised the district’s reputation, saying “people are moving to Tallmadge in droves because of your schools.” She added wealthier districts with the ability to pay are asked to “to be more innovative.”

Craig Shubert speaks with State Representative Heidi Workman (R-Rootstown).

Craig Shubert said school districts across Ohio will increasingly be asked to do more with fewer resources as taxpayer resistance to new levies grows. He said the legislature should revisit H.B. 920, first enacted in 1976. A new funding plan could make school districts leaner and more competitive at a time when more parents are exploring educational options for their children.

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