North Royalton City Council hears proposal for new EMS levy

By SCOTT KRISKA

The Post Newspapers

NORTH ROYALTON – The city’s Safety Committee met the evening of Jan. 18, during which time Fire Chief Robert Chegan discussed the possibility of adding an EMS levy to the May ballot. He explained passing this levy is necessary to start plans on constructing two additional fire stations in the city, as well as to increase manpower and equipment.

Chegan explained North Royalton is the third largest city in Cuyahoga County, consisting of a population of 32,500 people. He said the passage of this levy will also allow for additional positions for staff officers, as well as better use of existing resources and community risk reduction.

Finance Director Jenny Esarey said this levy would cost an additional $339 in tax money. Mayor Larry Antoskiewicz said he believes the city needs this new levy. Ward 5 Councilwoman Dawn Carbone-McDonald inquired whether the levy could be placed on the November ballot instead of May, to which Antoskiewicz replied the levy has a better chance of passage if placed on the May ballot.

A resolution declaring the necessity of replacing the 1.7 mill tax levy was later adopted by the city council.

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