The Center for Community Solutions' Board of Directors has endorsed the 2.9-mill replacement and reduction Cuyahoga County Health and Human Services Levy, which will appear on the November 7, 2006, ballot.

The proposed levy would replace the three-year levy approved by voters in 2004. If passed, it would go into effect in the beginning of 2007, generating $85.3 million annually and costing the owner of a $100,000 home, $88.82 a year in taxes. It is one of two local levies dedicated to health and human services for children and families, seniors, mental health consumers, the homeless, and others. Approval of the levy will enable the county to help many county residents in need, including those who may not be served currently but will need help due to changed personal circumstances (e.g., job loss, health crisis, or other serious situation) in the future.

Board Chair Stephen J. Ong noted that this endorsement "continues Community Solutions' tradition of supporting public funding of critical health and social services." Recognizing that passage of the levy will require community education about the need for, and use of, levy funds, the Board approved a $10,000 contribution to the County Action Committee.

"We are pleased to continue our support of this vital community levy," said Gregory L. Brown, executive director and president. "We are also pleased to loan the expertise of Ericka Thoms, our advocacy coordinator, to the levy's educational campaign. It's so important that people understand the value of this levy and the local services it supports--services that anyone could find themselves needing at any time."

For information about the Health and Human Services Levy, call 216-357-2352.