We want you to be informed about Summit DD's replacement levy so we've compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions. Of course we welcome other questions, just contact us! We're happy to help.
What is a replacement levy?
Summit DD has operated for 17 years without an increase in revenue while serving 30% more people. The demand for services is expected to increase during the 2025 - 2030 funding cycle. Summit DD's replacement levy (Issue 17) replaces the same 4.5 mills levy that was originally approved by voters in 2005 based on2023 home values. If approved, this replacement levy will cost homeowners $158 annually per $100,000 of appraised value, just $3.58 more per month than they currently pay. It is important to note that passing Issue 17 this November ensures that the amount collected will be on your home's current valuation and not the expected increased valuation that will go into effect in 2024.
What does Issue 17 fund?
Summit DD is the Agency that funds and connects more than 2,300 adults to disability services throughout Summit County. They monitor these services for safety and ensure that people are receiving the supports they rely on.
The levy makes up more than 80% of its revenue, funding vital services and programs for more than 5,000 children and adults with disabilities. The levy also funds early intervention services for 700 kids and families, investigations of reports that impact health and safety, service coordination, Special Olympics and more. It’s important to vote FOR Issue 17 on November 7th to ensure the continuation of these vital services and programs.
What other sources of income does Summit DD receive?
While Summit DD does receive a mix of some federal and state dollars, about 80% of their operating income comes from the levy that takes place every six years. The operating levy generates about $50 million in revenue, of which $25 million is set aside to meet their Medicaid obligation. (That $25 million is what allows them to tap into the additional $60 million in federal Medicaid funds that can then be reinvested into the local economy.)
The other $25 million is the revenue needed to provide early intervention services, conduct reviews of all allegations of abuse or neglect, coordinate services for adults and school age kids, support quality of life programs like Special Olympics and support service needs of those not eligible for Medicaid.
Will this cost tax payers more?
Yes, the replacement will cost slightly more. Homeowners will pay about $3.58 more per month for a home valued at $100,000, or $158 annually (per $100,000 of appraised value). It is important to note that passing Issue 17 ensures that the amount collected will be on your home's current valuation and not the expected increased valuation that will go into effect in 2024. The levy would funds services for eligible individuals from 2025-2030.
How much will this levy cost taxpayers?
This replacement levy will cost homeowners $158 annually (per $100,000 of appraised value, just $3.58 more per month than they currently pay). It is important to note that passing the Nov. 7th ballot issue ensures that the amount collected will be on your home's current valuation and not the expected increased valuation that will go into effect in 2024.
How do I know that my money is being used well?
Summit DD believes in transparency and being good stewards of taxpayer money. Summit DD has operated for 17 years without an increase in revenue while serving 30% more people. The Agency has seen an increased demand for services, and expects that trend to continue through the 2025-2030 funding cycle.
Is the levy campaign funded with tax dollars?
No. The levy campaign (coordinated by a volunteer ballot issue committee called “Support Summit DD”) is run by volunteers and is funded 100% from donations - not tax dollars - which is why every donation, large and small, counts! Donation are used to promote the passage of this ballot issue that provides crucial funding for essential services and supports to more than 5,000 kids and adults with disabilities. Help empower people of all abilities and get involved today!
What happens if the replacement levy fails?
The passage of the replacement levy is crucial to ensure that the daily needs of more than 5,000 children and adults with disabilities are met. Without levy funding, early intervention services would be discontinued for 700 families with kids under the age of six; Special Olympic athletes would lose funding; school supports for teens transitioning to adulthood and the workforce would be discontinued; and access to current and future Medicaid funding for Summit County and its residents could be jeopardized. That’s why it is so important to vote FOR Issue 17 this November.
How can I help?
Great question! There are a number of ways to help from requesting yard signs to inviting the committee to speak at your local club or committee meeting. Check out our Campaign Toolkit for ideas on how to get involved, donate or sign up to volunteer with Support Summit DD.
