Revere Local Schools Rally for Levy

Correction: An earlier version of this report had incorrect millage and cost per property figures. They were figures from a previous levy.

Revere Local Schools plans a rally to support a levy 1:30-3 p.m. Sunday at the Revere High School stadium (main gym if there's rain), 3420 Everett Rd.  

The  4.83 mill, 10-year emergency levy for operating expenses would increase taxes by $148 a year per $100,000 of value. The levy vote is on May 3. 

The district says the levy is necessary to maintain the district's "Excellent" rating, and the district anticipates declining support from the state. Many school districts  face steep cuts in state support as Ohio struggles to cut an estimated $8 billion deficit.

Voters in February passed a renewal levy that continued an existing revenue stream. The May 3 levy will generate new money to meet rising costs and reduced state support.

Revere Middle School and High Hchool teachers are facing layoffs or reduction in force (RIF) because of  spiraling costs and two failed operating cost levies last year, the district said. Most if not all layoffs would be avoided if the levy passes.

The district said changes in state administration of school funds will result in a nearly $3.3 million loss to the district this fall. A state projection shows many school districts facing budget deficits in the next school year.

The rally is sponsored by FACTS, Families and Community Together for Schools.

Fairlawn Real Estate Associates spent $7,200 on a campaign to defeat the levy last November, the Akron Beacon Journal reported. The defeat of that levy saved the property owner about $70,000 in school taxes.

Citizens for Responsible School Administration is a political action committee that opposes the levy.

The district serves Bath, Richfield Village, Richfield Township, Copley and part of Akron.