Avon Lake voters weigh $400 annual tax hike for road repairs

Avon Lake voters will decide on November 3 whether to raise the city income tax by 0.4 percent over the next six years to pay for street repairs and storm sewer updates. The measure, known as Issue 16, would increase the local tax rate from 1.5 percent to 1.9 percent. For a resident or employee earning $100,000, the change adds $400 to their annual tax bill.

City officials estimate the measure will generate $6 million in revenue. Seventy percent of that sum, or $4.2 million, is designated for street repairs. The remaining $1.8 million will fund new storm sewers, traffic signals, and equipment for city departments. The tax applies to income earned by people who live or work in Avon Lake, while Social Security and pension income are exempt from the increase.

City Council President Geoffrey Smith told reporters the city has not requested an income tax increase since 1992. Smith said the council is asking for the measure because existing funds are insufficient for the maintenance required in certain areas. He warned that delaying repairs will make the problems more expensive to fix later. Smith described the situation as a necessary step to address the condition of the local roads.

Supporters of the measure point to visible damage on local streets. Samantha Henry, an Avon Lake resident, said she plans to vote for Issue 16. Henry described how snowplows rip up the pavement, leaving large holes that damage vehicles. She cited the poor condition of her own street as a primary reason for her support.

Opponents argue the current infrastructure is adequately maintained. Pat Malloy, another resident, said she does not support the tax increase. Malloy noted that the city has been performing sewer separations and keeping roads in good shape. She stated that she is satisfied with the level of service provided by the city and believes the roads are currently fine.

Reporters observed a traffic cone placed in the middle of Surrey Lane, a road the city identified as one of those requiring repair. The city has not released a specific list of all streets that will receive funding, but officials indicated that the worst-affected areas will be prioritized under the new tax structure. The outcome of the vote will determine whether the city proceeds with the planned infrastructure upgrades in the coming fiscal years.