Strong Schools = Strong Community

One of the most important functions of the Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce is to promote economic development in Springfield and Clark County.
Businesses have a number of issues they explore before expanding or moving to a community. At the top or near the top of the list is the educational system. They demand a pool of well-educated workers coming out of the local schools to fill the jobs their companies bring. They also want a quality school system for their own children.
Two school districts in Clark County – Northeastern and Northwestern – have buildings that are rapidly deteriorating to the point they now threaten the educational process. Northeastern and Northwestern are asking voters to approve a combined property tax and earned income tax.
Both have the opportunity to replace their outdated buildings. The Ohio Schools Facilities Commission would pick up 45 percent of the cost in the Northwestern District or $23 million, and 41 percent or $48 million in the Northeastern District. That’s quite a discount for residents in those districts, and one that likely will not be available again as state funds for new schools are all but depleted.
Northeastern is asking voters to approve a 7.572 property tax and a .25 percent income tax. You can determine what it would cost you by going to the district’s Website at www.nelsd.org and using the online calculator. Northwestern is asking for a 7.36 mil, 28-year property tax to build the schools and one percent earned income tax for operating expenses. Find more information at www.northwestern.k12.oh.us.
Some are asking why request this money during a down economy. Good question. The district is told by the OSFC when it is eligible for funding and this happens to be that time for both districts. If district voters don’t approve the funding, the problems won’t go away. They’ll only get worse. Money will be wasted repairing the buildings and the cost to replace will escalate. Plus, there’s a good chance in the future the districts will have to pay 100 percent of the costs for construction.
We as a community and Northeastern and Northwestern as school districts can’t afford to miss out on these opportunities. Remember, your home’s value is directly related to the schools in your district. Buyers with children check out the schools before purchasing a home. Look at it as an investment in, not only your community, but in your home, your greatest financial asset.

These issues are of the utmost importance in moving Springfield-Clark County forward. The children of these districts and all of Springfield/Clark County are counting on you. Don’t let the community and the children down, please.