MOUNT HEALTHY, Ohio — In this November's elections, while some local school districts managed to pass their proposed levies, others faced setbacks. One such district is the Mt. Healthy City School District, which unfortunately did not pass its levy. This outcome means that multiple local districts will now have to deal with cuts, restructuring, or reforms.

"The Impact of Failed Levies on Local School Districts"

School Funding and Local Levies

School leaders have emphasized that in Ohio, local districts heavily rely on the passage of local levies to maintain their existing educational resources as the cost of education keeps rising. Despite the setbacks this year, some districts are determined to present their cases to voters again in 2025 to prevent even more severe cuts.

For the Mt. Healthy City School District, the situation is particularly challenging. After discovering some accounting errors, the district found itself in a significant financial predicament. According to their estimates, they are projecting a $13 million deficit in 2025.

Assistant Superintendent Sarah Wilson expressed her love for the district and her belief that it is where she belongs. However, she also acknowledged the hardships the district is facing. In response, the district has taken several measures. They have consolidated or eliminated more than 100 positions and accepted a $10.7 million loan from the state to cover their costs for the year. There is hope that this loan will be converted into a grant if the Ohio legislature passes Senate Bill 341 and House Bill 701.

Internal Measures to Address Budget Shortfall

The district's financial recovery plan includes several important initiatives. They have implemented a new district credit card policy that requires mandatory sign-out for usage. This helps ensure better control over expenses. Additionally, a new system has been put in place to approve all district purchases, adding an extra layer of accountability. The district has also refined their Human resources and payroll processes to streamline operations and optimize resources.

Wilson emphasized that there are amazing education professionals working in the district who are dedicated to serving the students and families of Mt. Healthy. They will continue to provide the best educational options for the students. This commitment is evident in their efforts to address the budget shortfall and work towards a more sustainable financial future.

According to our partners at WVXU, other local school districts such as Princeton City Schools, Milford Exempted Village Schools, and Clinton-Massie Local Schools are also facing budget challenges after failed levies in November. These districts are now exploring similar strategies to manage their finances and ensure the continuity of education services.