Voters Face Urgent Decision on Highland Heights’ Issue 11 Levy
UPDATE: Highland Heights voters are being called to action this election season as they consider Issue 11, a critical 5.9-mill levy increase aimed at securing essential funding for police, fire, and emergency medical services (EMS). With the city facing a staggering $2 million annual deficit, this ballot measure is not just an option; it is a lifeline for community safety.
The city’s financial report describes the situation as a “financial crossroads,” underscoring the urgent need for increased funding. Since 1967, Highland Heights has maintained a flat 4.0-mill property tax rate, of which only 2.2 mills contribute to general operating expenses. This has historically covered over 60 percent of the city’s budget, but recent economic challenges, especially post-pandemic, have drastically impacted revenue from income taxes.
In a statement to cleveland.com, Mayor Chuck Brunello, Jr. highlighted the pressing nature of this vote: “This levy is not about creating new programs — it is about preserving the high level of service and protection our residents expect and deserve.” With inflation and rising service demands, the city is grappling with a funding model that has become increasingly unsustainable.
If passed, the levy would increase the tax rate to 9.9 mills, positioning Highland Heights as one of the lowest in the region, second only to Mayfield Village’s 5 mills. Residents could expect an approximate increase of $17 per month for every $100,000 of home value, totaling about $206.50 annually.
The urgency of this vote cannot be overstated. Highland Heights has not seen a property tax increase for city operations in 58 years, and the mayor emphasized that the costs of critical services are on the rise. “Post-pandemic changes in workplace trends have made our revenue stream less stable,” Brunello noted, stressing that without this levy, the city risks compromising its exceptional police and fire services, which are nationally recognized for their excellence.
The Highland Heights Police Department is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA), a distinction held by fewer than 4 percent of police departments nationwide. Meanwhile, the Fire Department boasts an impressive ISO Class 2 rating, placing it within the top 4.5 percent across the country. These accolades highlight the community’s need to ensure these departments remain well-resourced amid rising operational costs.
Should voters approve Issue 11, Brunello confirmed that a separate fund would be established to manage the new revenue, alleviating pressure on the general fund and allowing the city to rebuild reserves for essential road improvements and other capital needs.
Residents are encouraged to stay informed about the implications of Issue 11 as the election date approaches in November 2023. With the stakes higher than ever, Highland Heights faces a pivotal moment that could determine the future of its public safety services.
For more information on Issue 11 and its impact on Highland Heights, visit the city’s official website. As Mayor Brunello stated, “Together, we can preserve the services and quality of life that make Highland Heights such a special place to live.”
This is a developing story. Stay tuned for updates as we approach the election.
