REYNOLDSBURG, Ohio — Voters struck down a 6.65 mill emergency levy that Reynoldsburg City Schools placed on the November ballot.
Leaders say the district began deficit spending in the 2023 fiscal year, meaning the district was spending more money than it brought in. The money was being spent on bus fuel, utilities and salaries for staff members, according to school leaders.
Superintendent Dr. Tracy Reed said the district put the levy on the ballot because ESSER funds, federal funding provided to help schools recover from the COVID-19 pandemic, were running out for essential programs.
It was the first operating levy the district has put on the ballot since 2010. It was expected to cost $233 per year per $100,000 of property value. For example, if a home costs $300,000 then that resident would pay almost $700 a year.
Reed sent out the following letter to families:
"Dear Reynoldsburg City Schools Staff, Students, Community Members and Families,
We regret to inform the community that based on unofficial election results our proposed emergency operating levy did not pass. We understand that this outcome may raise concerns about the future of our programs and services.
We want to assure you that we are committed to finding ways to continue providing quality education and support to our students and families. Our team will be exploring alternative funding sources and strategies to mitigate the impact of this outcome. As of today, no decisions have been made, nor will they be made without approval from the Board of Education.
We appreciate the ongoing support from our community and encourage open dialogue as we navigate this challenge together. Thank you for your continued involvement and commitment to our schools.
We will be transparent and upfront as we work on the next steps. In the meantime, if you have any questions, please email me at superindentent@reyn.org."
