Issue 2 - Response
Much has been learned from the recent failure of Issue 2 and the campaign leading up to the vote. From the neighborhood meetings, email communications and thousands of phone calls that have taken place over the past four months we have learned that two important factors contributed to the failure of Issue 2: uncertainty about how state funding cuts from Columbus will directly impact the schools; and the current economic climate of our region. These factors weighed heavily on the minds of many, if not all, voters. Although we have no control over these factors, in short time, we will have some resolve to both. This summer the state budget should be finalized, and national trends point to the economy making a slow but steady recovery.
Despite the fact that we have tightened our belts by making significant cuts already, additional funding is desperately needed for the schools and this community. When we return to the voters in November there will undoubtedly be a heightened sense of urgency to avoid deeper cuts to necessary staff and programming. Asking the public for additional funding is never easy, but it is necessary given the state’s system for funding education. The district has kept its promise to stretch every dollar. However, we require additional funding to continue vital programs students in Euclid need.