PERRYSBURG, Ohio-After a 17-year run of successful levies and bonds, Perrysburg Local Schools faced setbacks with two recent failures. In the latest, an $88 million bond issue to expand and renovate elementary schools was rejected by 57% of voters. Superintendent Tom Hosler expressed disappointment but affirmed readiness to address growth challenges. Overcrowded elementary schools, resorting to trailers for classrooms, highlight the pressing need for expansion.
The proposed levy aimed to fund a new elementary school, expand three others, and convert one into a preschool. Hosler suggests voter rejection may reflect concerns about the city’s growth, but slowing growth isn’t achieved by rejecting the levy. City Administrator Joe Fawcett acknowledges the message conveyed by the levy’s failure regarding residents’ sentiments on growth. Hosler indicates alternative funding options might be considered, like tapping into the general fund for trailers, but warns of potential repercussions on teacher salaries. Another levy in November seems unlikely, with the board exploring other solutions.
