Ghiz will fight CPS levy

From city councilwoman Leslis Ghiz:

GHIZ TO STAND UP FOR CITY TAXPAYERS BY OPPOSING ‘MASSIVE’ CPS TAX LEVY
Cites Unanswered Questions for Opposition to $65 Million/Year Tax Increase

City Councilmember Leslie Ghiz today announced her opposition to the $65 million public school tax levy that will appear on this November’s ballot. Ghiz said she will be working in the coming months to ensure that City taxpayers are aware of the reasons for her opposition. She even said she is considering introducing a resolution at City Council after the summer recess urging citizens to reject the levy proposal.

“Taxpayers in our City have seen three school levies proposed in the past five years,” Ghiz said. “At the same time, they are faced with the news that the schools will be hiring a brand new Superintendent while the School Board could turn over completely.”

“The School Board ought to be focusing on the pressing issue at hand: finding a credible replacement for its Superintendent instead of trying to pass massive tax increases,” Ghiz said. “Show me a long-term, strategic plan for our schools and I will be strong advocate for increasing funding for our school system. As it stands now, this is a completely irresponsible request of our homeowners.”

Ghiz noted that voters in 2004 approved a $65 million renewal levy that is set to expire in 2010 and costs the owner of a $100,000 around $300 per year. Under the proposed levy, the same owner of a $100,000 would pay an additional $300 per year. Ghiz said it is crucial for voters to send a message prior to any future renewal levy that the school system needs to undertake substantial reforms before coming to them for additional tax dollars.