Council places income tax on ballot

Safety forces support of 0.25% increase includes new fire station, police station expansion, infrastructure

Avon Lake City Council approved the ballot language for a new fire station, police station expansion and infrastructure at the June 27 meeting.

The voters will have an opportunity in the November election to decide if a 0.25% income tax increase is necessary to support the Avon Lake safety forces and ensure the quality of care and protection the residents rely on, according to a news release.

Currently, Avon Lake’s income tax rate is 1.5%, the release related.

If the new rate is approved, 0.2% will go toward the construction of a new fire station and police station expansion, and the remaining 0.05% will be invested in city infrastructure, such as roads, according to the release.

“As an income tax, this does not impact individuals that are retired, as it does not tax pensions or capital gains,” said Avon Lake Mayor Greg Zilka. “For those that are working in a city with an income tax rate of 1.75% or more (which are most of Avon Lake’s surrounding communities), it does not increase taxes at all.”

Fire chief

In fire Chief Jeremy Betsa’s presentation to council, he pointed out that the current fire station opened in 1978, not in 2000, when the Safety Center opened.

Only a new facade was added to the fire station at that time, Betsa said.

There are numerous large repairs needed to the fire station, and after a study conducted five years ago, it was determined that the best option is building a new facility for the Fire Department and renovating the current building for the Police Department.

Council perspective

Councilman David Kos, chair of the Public Health and Safety Committee, provided statistics of the changes in the city since the fire station was built 44 years ago.

“Since 1978, the percentage for the number of fire department runs has gone up 400%, fire department staffing has gone up 72% and Avon Lake’s population has increased 94% and is still growing,” Kos said. “Simply put, it is time for a modern facility.”

If a resident wants to consider the need for a new fire station for themselves, Betsa would be glad to provide tours, according to the release.

Call him at 440-933-8305 or email jbetsa@avonlakefire.org.

Fundraiser

The Our Safety — Our Avon Lake Committee is hosting a fundraiser from 5-8 p.m., July 12, which will be a great opportunity to have your questions answered, according to the release.

Tickets for this picnic at John Christ Winery, 32421 Walker Road in Avon Lake, are $25 per person and open to the public.

Children younger than the age of 12 are free.