Wickliffe police and fire levy passes

Voters in Wickliffe on Nov. 6 approved the city’s request for a 3-mill police and fire levy.

The additional, continuing levy, won by a tally of 3,129 to 1,860, according to unofficial, final returns from the Lake County Elections Board.

The issue will raise $835,299 each year and cost taxpayers $105 annually per $100,000 in residential property valuation, according to the Lake County Auditor’s Office.

It will be specifically for police and fire, but Wickliffe Mayor John Barbish said the levy also will free up more money in the general fund to help with other projects and expenses.

“If it passes, next year we will have dedicated money for police and fire,” he said prior to the election. “We want as much money in our capital fund to spend it on general salary and general upkeep.”

The city’s police and fire chiefs said they have seen a rise in calls over the years, yet staffing levels have not increased.

Both departments also have equipment needs.

Police Chief Randy Ice said crimes are increasing in the city. Specifically, felonies and high-speed pursuits are on the rise.

Fire Chief James Powers said that the complexity of his department’s calls has also increased in the last 39 years since he started.

“Great service starts with great people,” Powers said. “We’re at the point where we can’t sustain any more cuts.”