New leadership, transparency and fiscal responsibilitY “earned my trust”
LETTER TO THE EDITOR: Brian Sasson
LOVELAND, OH (April 13, 2023) – I voted “no” to the Loveland City School District levy in November 2019. On May 2nd, I am voting “yes” to the Loveland Schools levy.
My dad was a public school principal in Mariemont and a beloved deacon (“Deacon Jerry”) at St. Columban parish here in Loveland. Though Dad advocated for both public and private education, he championed supporting public schools as essential to a thriving community.
While I agree with that sentiment, I don’t blindly vote “yes” when a levy is on the ballot. I believe it’s imperative to understand the finances of the district and plans for potential money to be raised in order to make an informed decision. That led me to vote “no” to the Loveland Schools levy back in 2019.
Despite the same “vote no” signs showing up again this year, it’s not 2019 anymore.
The 2019 levy was 16.8 mills. The May 2023 levy is 4.9 mills. Since 2019, Loveland City Schools hired a new superintendent, and school board members have turned over. This leadership regularly hosts public forums and openly shares the financial and performance metrics of the district. They demonstrate transparency and fiscal responsibility and have earned my trust.
No one likes tax increases, and no district enjoys placing a levy on the ballot. Some say potential additional cuts are just threats and there is plenty of excess budget. That’s simply not true. Loveland schools have not received new money from our community since 2014. Significant cuts to staff and services have already been made. Today, 98% of Ohio school districts have a better student-to-teacher ratio, and 92% of all Ohio school districts receive more money per student.
Passing this upcoming levy simply maintains current class sizes and the district’s already-reduced services. A failed levy will lead to government intervention which is detrimental and costly to our schools, our community’s reputation, and our property values.
Many Loveland residents felt disenfranchised by what took place in 2019. I did too. Some now see this as a game, even keeping score, and indicate they’ll continue voting “no” against Loveland school levies based on that history. Like a self-inflicted wound, that only punishes our community today and into the future. This isn’t a game.
Brian Sasson (Photo Provided)
My children did not attend Loveland schools, but I love our community and want it to thrive. Let’s stop looking back and move forward. Before casting a ballot, I ask residents to take an objective and informed look at the current levy.
I voted “no” back in 2019 based on information at that time. Based on new leadership, current facts, and today’s reality, I’m voting “yes” on May 2nd to invest in the future of Loveland schools and our community.
Brian Sasson is a resident of Loveland
VOTING REMINDER: Election day is Tuesday, May 2, 2023. Early voting is already underway.
