Elyria City Schools officials provided an update on the district’s ongoing $9 million reduction plan during the April 1 Board of Education meeting, while also signaling that a potential levy could be considered later this year.
Treasurer Colleen Aholt told board members that cost-saving measures tied to personnel changes and staffing adjustments are beginning to take effect. As part of the update, the district reported identifying approximately $170,798 in savings for fiscal year 2026 through actions taken in March.
Additional projected savings tied to staffing reductions, retirements, and positions not being refilled next year total approximately $664,979, bringing the combined identified savings to about $835,777.
The reduction plan is part of a broader effort to address the district’s financial challenges. While officials did not announce any immediate new cuts during the meeting, the update reflects continued progress toward reducing overall spending.
At the same time, Aholt indicated that the district may need to pursue additional revenue through a ballot issue.
According to the timeline discussed, if the district chooses to place a levy on the November ballot, the Board of Education would need to pass the necessary resolutions by August. Aholt said she plans to update the district’s financial forecast in May to help determine the appropriate millage and funding needs if a levy is pursued.
No formal decision on placing a levy on the ballot has been made at this time.
The board also approved routine financial items during the meeting and noted that the district recently completed its fiscal year 2025 audit. The audit resulted in a clean opinion, with only two minor findings related to IT security measures that were already in the process of being addressed.
The financial update comes as Elyria City Schools continues to navigate budget constraints while planning for the upcoming school year.
