Mayor is grateful for passage of Issue 52

11/6/2013 Download PDF 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Jeannie Roberts (440) 885-8181 (216) 346-9935 

PARMA, Ohio – Mayor Tim DeGeeter is grateful this morning for the passage of Issue 52, Parma’s replacement fire levy. The issue passed by a vote of 7,613-6,827 on Tuesday.

The replacement levy, which increases the current levy by a half-mill, becomes effective in 2015. It is expected to generate approximately $2.8 million in 2015.

"With the voters’ approval of Issue 52, we can continue to provide top-notch fire and EMS services in Parma," DeGeeter said. “The cuts from Columbus have hit us hard, and this money allows us to pay for badly needed equipment and staff.”

Calls for service have nearly doubled since the levy first passed in 1994, and the department is handling those with fewer firefighters on duty. Most of the calls are for EMS services. Fire Chief John French is delighted that some aging fire engines can be replaced and new ambulances purchased.

“Fire prevention services and efficient patient care are our priorities, and we are proud of what we have been able to deliver,” Chief French said. “We are grateful that our residents have placed this kind of faith in us.”

DeGeeter’s administration has stressed quality of life issues, and he firmly believes that the city’s safety forces are a large part of that. “Parma has excellent police and fire protection, and I am very pleased to see that our residents understand the importance of that.”

The Mayor also expressed his appreciation to Parma City Council for its unanimous support for Issue 52.