Dear Editor, 

Issue 17 on the November 7 ballot is essential not only to the individuals served by the Summit County Developmental Disabilities Board (Summit DD), it is also critical to our local economy. As a small business owner operating in Summit County, I manage [state which service, residential, transportation, day program] which serves individuals eligible for Summit DD services.

As a partner agency of the Summit DD, my business relies on funding from the Board. This funding supports the operations of our [state which service, residential, transportation, day program]. [State specific benefit]. If Issue 17 fails, our ability to continue to provide these services and employ direct care professionals will be in jeopardy.

The passage of Issue 17 in November locks in the amount collected through 2030 and is calculated on Summit County homeowners’ current property valuation, not the increased valuation that becomes effective in 2024.

Vote YES for Issue 17 on or before November 7 to help disability service providers like myself continue to work with Summit DD to empower people of all abilities. A vote for Summit DD is a vote for me!

Sincerely, 

[Partner Agency]