LAKEWOOD, Ohio -- On the May 5 primary ballot, the Lakewood City School District is asking voters to pass a new operating levy.
District leaders say the funding is needed to cover day-to-day expenses, which includes updating technology, improving safety and security, maintaining educational programs and retaining teachers.
If approved, the levy would cost homeowners about $240 per year for every $100,000 of home value, beginning in 2027.
Supporters say the investment is necessary to maintain the quality of education the district is known for.
"I know for me and for lots of families in this area, this levy is really, really important for maintaining and continuing the tradition of excellent education," said Lakewood resident Martha Woerner. "Our schools really need this funding in order to be able to continue to do that."
But not everyone agrees this levy is the right solution.
Some residents say rising property taxes are already straining homeowners and argue now is the time to rethink how schools are funded.
"A lot of residents here in Lakewood already have seen property taxes skyrocket," said Lakewood resident Bill Locke. "I don't think that many residents here can afford even higher property taxes at this point."
Locke says his position is based on finances and not a reflection of his support for the schools. He argues this could be an opportunity to explore a different funding model: one that relies less on property taxes and includes other options, like income taxes, to spread costs more evenly across residents.
"I am personally for the schools," Locke said. "But we need to look at the overall financial situation here of our schools and the community."
District leaders, however, say the current financial outlook is more urgent.
In a statement, Lakewood City Schools Superintendent Maggie Niedzwiecki elaborated on the district's financial position, saying: "The district must balance its budget, which would require reductions to staffing, programs, services, and operations. Grants and efficiencies help, but cannot replace levy funding. The Board would likely return to voters with a future levy request."
This levy request comes after a period of division in the community, including the controversial decision to repurpose Lincoln Elementary School and a contentious school board election. Since then, some community members have called for unity as the district looks ahead.
"Strong schools make a really strong community overall," Woerner said. "I know a levy is always an ask of folks, but I think it's well worth it."