Ohio redistricting debate frustrates North Olmsted City Schools superintendent with May

NORTH OLMSTED, Ohio — A holding pattern with major consequences is how North Olmsted City Schools Superintendent David J. Brand describes the district’s current predicament related to a combined new-money issue going to the voters this spring.

The problem has to do with the protracted redistricting effort out of Columbus that is now in a legal morass.

Currently scheduled to be on the May 3 ballot, the combined new-money issue — costing a $100,000 homeowner $22.75 per month — will provide funds for operations as well as the construction of a new PreK-5 building.

“We don’t want to put out anything with misinformation, whether it’s a wrong date or a changed issue number,” Brand said. “I’m not a politician or an election law expert but I don’t know how it’s possible to have an election on May 3 right now.

“We want as many voters as possible to be completely informed and exercise their right to vote.”

Over the last month or so, the superintendent said several times he’s been told clarification is coming “next week.”

“I’m trying to pay close attention to what’s going on in Columbus and communicate with our legislators the bind the schools are in,” Brand said. “It’s frustrating.

“Clearly, it is important to hear from as many of your voters as possible and the confusion around the election date will drive down the number of votes. That is just not good government, in my opinion.”

Another result of the ongoing discussion is uncertainty related to staffing decisions tied to the passage or failure of the income-tax increase.

“If the primary is going to move they need to designate when so schools can plan with facts,” Brand said.

“With all that being said, I’m confident that North Olmsted will rise to the challenge and the levy committee will do everything they can to share their message with our great community.”

Predicated on the passage of the combined bond and operating issue, the new PreK-5 building will be constructed at either Pine Intermediate School or Birch Primary School.

The superintendent expects the 45-member task force — comprised of civic, business, educational, neighborhood and parents charged with recommending the best location for the proposed new facility — to make its decision known soon.

“The task force did make their selection,” Brand said. “It was a unanimous vote and they want to present it in person to the board at the April 7 meeting.”

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