Passage Of Renewal Levy Critical For Firefighters, Paramedics

Parma is seeking to pass a 2-mill renewal levy this November that supports the city’s fire department.
 “This five-year renewal levy, which is not a tax increase, will not only help the fire department’s operations, but provide our firefighters and paramedics with the latest equipment and technology they need to save lives,” Parma Mayor Tim DeGeeter said. “I’m optimistic voters this fall will support the levy because they understand how critical it is for our city. Our residents also know our department provides great service while being responsible with our tax dollars,” DeGeeter added.

Parma City Council approved the measure for the fall ballot because the current levy expires at the end of 2018. In September, the Cuyahoga County Board of Elections will provide an issue number for when the levy appears on the fall ballot. “Each year, the fire department responds to more emergency calls,” Parma Fire Chief Mike Lasky said. “Passage of the renewal levy is important in helping us continue to provide quality service to our residents as we keep up with increased demands.” In 2017, the fire department responded to 11,782 incidents, a jump from 2016’s 11,062 calls. Five years ago, the department had 9,839. “Even with these increases, our response time to emergencies exceeds the national average,” Lasky said. “The renewal levy will help us maintain our high standard of service.” 

The current levy collects $2.65 million and is a critical component of the fire department’s $14-million budget, Parma Auditor Brian Day said. An owner of a house valued at $100,00 pays roughly $5.83 a month, he said.
 “The levy is essential for the fire department’s operations, particularly after years of severe cuts from Columbus,” Day said. “Fortunately, the fire department provides quality service efficiently and effectively.”