5.9-mill levy on Maumee ballot

8/5/2008

The Maumee Board of Education last night put a 5.9-mill continuing operating levy on the Nov. 4 ballot.

The new millage, if adopted, would raise $3.01 million annually. The owner of a $200,000 home would pay an additional $361 per year. One mill equals $1 per $1,000 of a property's assessed valuation.

Maumee school officials anticipate an operating deficit this year, but have reserves to cover it. Treasurer Paul Brotzki forecasts a $2.7 million operating shortfall in fiscal year 2010 without new revenue.

In May of 2005, voters turned down a 5.9-mill request, but in November of that year approved 4.8 mills.

Superintendent Greg Smith noted that the district trimmed spending by $2.4 million in 2004-2005. Mr. Smith said most of those cuts remain in effect. The district has 25 fewer teachers than it had four years ago, he said.