Local school superintendents are disappointed with the Tuscarawas County Budget Commission’s decision to halt their district’s efforts to fund capital improvement projects.
Dover, Claymont and Indian Valley School Boards this year approved reallocating inside millage – or property taxes not voted on by the public – to fund construction and other permanent improvements. It would have raised property taxes, and some school officials have said they know that’s not a popular move.
However, County Auditor Larry Lindburg says the budget commission’s decision is based on procedures and not opinions.
Indian Valley Superintendent Ira Wentworth says officials in his district are seeking further clarification.
Claymont Superintendent Brian Rentch says his district is weighing its options that include refiling or appealing. Claymont officials had been planning school construction projects that included additions to the high school campus and closing two lower-grade schools. He says constantly shifting opinions and cuts at the state level make it difficult for School Boards to find funding options it can rely on.
Dover school officials have said their move made the district eligible for 50-million dollars from the state to help fund large-scale school construction projects. They had hoped to approve the work early next year. Officials in the districts are considering their next steps, which could include appealing or refiling in the new year.
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