PERRYSBURG, Ohio-After a successful 17-year run of passing levies and bonds, Perrysburg Local Schools faced setbacks with two failed proposals in the past year. The latest rejection came from a 3.5-mill levy aimed at expanding and renovating elementary schools to accommodate the city’s growing population. Superintendent Tom Hosler expressed disappointment but emphasized the need to address overcrowding issues, including the use of trailers as makeshift classrooms.
Despite speculation about voters rejecting growth, Hosler argued against tying the levy’s failure to slowing down expansion. Perrysburg City Administrator Joe Fawcett acknowledged the message conveyed by the levy’s defeat regarding community sentiments on growth. While alternatives like using general funds for temporary solutions are considered, concerns about long-term consequences, such as potential teacher payment issues, remain. Future plans for addressing school expansion are under discussion, with Hosler hinting at exploring options beyond another levy in November.
