Wickliffe City Schools - Issue 20 - 11/4/25 Election - Levy FAQ
The Wickliffe City School district faces a significant funding shortage due to increasing operating costs, as well as no additional state funding. The district has implemented many cost-saving measures. However, they are not enough to cover the funding shortage.
Q. Why is the levy needed?
Wickliffe City Schools are in deficit spending due to the flat state funding and increased operating costs. Previous levies passed do NOT adjust for inflation. The last operating levy was passed 10 years ago (2015).
Q. How has the district seen costs increase?
Even though the district has been careful with its spending, rising costs for things like health care, utilities, transportation and other purchased services have outpaced the revenue it receives.
Q. What reductions have already been made?
Prior to the failed levy in May, the district had cut over $500,000 in spending over the last 5-6 years. Since the failed levy in May, an additional $500,00 has been cut, but it is not enough to cover the budget shortfall. The cuts made since May 2025 include the reduction of:
● Two Bus Routes
● Three (3) teaching positions
● Eliminated the preschool administrator position
● Reduced a campus administrator contract
● Eliminated the Maintenance Operations Manager position
Q: How does Wickliffe’s graduation rate compare to other districts in Lake County?
In the just released State Report Card, Wickliffe City School District attained a 98.4% graduation rate. That was second in our county and one of the highest in the surrounding counties as well. This demonstrates the value of a well-rounded education in Wickliffe.
Q. How much will the levy cost residents?
The 1% Earned Income Tax would cost approximately $50 per month for a person earning $60,000 per year, or just over $1.50 per day.
Q. How will this affect property taxes?
An Earned Income Tax is NOT a tax on property. This will help your property taxes by reducing future asks of property taxes. School districts in Ohio can only ask their communities for property taxes or income taxes. They have no other way to raise revenue at the local level.