Washington Township Voters Cast Ballots on Avon School Funding Referendum

On March 5, 2024, voters in Washington Township are making a critical decision regarding the future of funding for Avon Schools. Residents are at the polls to vote on a referendum that seeks to renew a property tax aimed at supporting educational initiatives within the district. This measure has been in place since 2018 and proposes a tax rate of 33 cents per $100 of assessed property value for the next eight years, a decrease of two cents from the current rate.

The Avon School District emphasizes that the funds generated from this tax are essential for maintaining competitive teacher salaries, ensuring smaller class sizes, and funding various classroom programs. During the early voting period, approximately 3,825 ballots were cast, and as of early afternoon on election day, over 2,000 residents had already voted in person. Polling places will close at 18:00, with results anticipated by 20:00.

Perspectives on the Referendum

Residents have voiced a range of opinions regarding the referendum. Sarah Parent, an Avon parent and member of the school board, articulated her support, stating, “It is vitally important that we maintain what we started out with in 2018. We need to maintain reasonable class sizes and the opportunities for students.” Her remarks highlight the referendum’s potential impact on educational quality.

Conversely, some voters, like Betsy Potter, have raised concerns about the financial implications of the tax. “They don’t seem to really care about the fact that I have to find the money,” she expressed, underscoring the burden that increased taxation can place on families. This sentiment reflects a broader apprehension among some residents about the sustainability of funding educational initiatives through property taxes.

The referendum is the only item on the ballot for this special election, allowing all registered voters in Washington Township to weigh in on this significant issue. As the polls close and the community awaits the results, the outcome will determine the future funding landscape for Avon Schools and its ability to provide quality education to its students.