What Happens When Levies Fail: One Couple's Story - Letter

To the Voters of Avon Lake:

We have a story.... we grew up in Parma (and Parma Hts.) the first being the seventh largest suburb in Ohio. It had 14- plus elementary schools, three junior high schools and three high schools. Families moved from all over to this city because it was "The Place" to live. It offered great schools, great neighborhoods, a rec center, the area's first mall, major industry (General Motors) and Metroparks laced through our neighborhoods. Still, there was a "small town" feel to the community.

For awhile we were on track, getting levies passed and continuing the education standards that our community expected and keeping property values up.

Art, music and gym were integral parts of our day - classes that help "round" a student out, to use another part of their brain, to let creativity and skill shine through. All sports played a huge roll in our schools. Keeping us kids active while teaching us good sportsmanship and nutrition are carried with us today. If anyone doesn't know, football was our towns biggest sport. The rivalry between schools is well documented and every Friday night at Byers Field is where the whole city gathered.

Slowly, demographics changed, the population aged, their children grew up and younger families moved in. Now, another levy is on the ballot. Some of this city thought, "I've raised my kids" or "I have to pay what??" or " this doesn't benefit me"......

Think again.

Our hometown changed and it's sad to see. A few elementary schools closed, kids had to be moved, there were plant layoffs, failed levies, property values drastically decreased, the mall is being torn down and the skating rink closed.

We moved to Avon Lake 13 years ago because of the school system. Our children have done well here and we can't say enough about the teachers. As parents, we were thrilled at how the community came together on this issue before. What changed this last levy? The kids deserve every opportunity to learn and make the most out of what is offered to them. It's an investment that has a positive return for you, the kids and the community.......Don't fail our future.

Do the right thing.

Kim & Erik Kramhoeller

Avon Lake