What Will It Take To Approve South-Western Levy?

GROVE CITY, Ohio -- It's now been a week since voters struck down Issue 2 in the South-Western City School district. While the shock has worn off, many are still asking the question, what's next?

Less than 24 hours after Issue Two was defeated, it wasn't uncommon for some who live in the South-Western City School district to say they were moving to another district.

While some local realtors told NBC 4 they've received calls from residents looking to move away, some also say they're receiving calls saying the opposite; that they're interested in moving into the South-Western City School District.

"I'm seeing a more positive than anything," said Bill Fletcher, owner of Achiever Realty in Grove City and a realtor of 32 years. He says he's taken phone calls from people interested in moving to the area. He says the fact that the levy didn't pass, means taxes are staying low. That in turn makes the area more attractive to buyers.

"It's more affordable. More house for less taxes," he said.

But he says one thing that would drive sales up faster, as well as property value is if a levy passed.

"Passing of course would be more sales, more people moving in," Fletcher said.

Now the question is, will voters get another chance in November.

At a special meeting scheduled for Wednesday at 8:30 p.m., the school board will discuss whether they will seek another levy in November and how much it will be.

A second special meeting has already been scheduled for Thursday at 8:30 p.m. because a possible resolution needs two separate votes.

What Will It Take To Pass The Levy?

What will it take for opponents to change their minds and pass the levy?

If the levy comes around again in November, some voters said they think it's time for some changes and more transparency.

"Show your bank statements, how it's spent -- going for salaries, athletics, art, whatever," said Judith DeCarlo, an Issue 2 supporter.

During the most recent push for the levy, district officials tried to let voters in. Some said they don't think everyone got the message and want another look.

"Show where the money is going (and) what it's being used for," another voter said.

Some teachers within the district said they think many voters don't quite understand that state funding doesn't pay for everything.

"I think the board needs to get out and be a bit more explaining how funding works and what the money is used for," said Melissa Fischer, a South-Western City Schools teacher.

Other voters said they would like to see everyone on both sides of the levy invited to the table to discuss what is best.

"I think they could do a lot better. They have the resources and not just at forums, but people and schools. That's what I would do," said Mark Riggs, an area voter.

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