Avon Lake Paramedic Levy Passes

With 100 percent of precincts reporting, the Avon Lake 2-mill, three-year paramedic levy earned voters support on its second attempt after losing by a narrow margin Aug. 7.

The levy passed, 7286 to 5052 votes.

Avon Lake Fire Chief Glen Eisenhardt, who expressed his disappointment after the last election, said he was grateful for voters’ support.

"I am very pleased our residents had confidence in their city government and fire department," Eisenhardt said. "I can assure our residents that we will continue to improve and provide fire and ems protection in the most effective and efficient means possible."

Avon Lake Mayor Greg Zilka also thanked voters and promised continued fiscal responsibility.

"I’m very pleased, I want to thanks the residents for acknoweldging our plan to put the city government on a stable financial track," Zilka said, acknowledging Avon Lake has faced dramatically reduced revenues from the state. "It shows a  vote of confidence."

He noted the fire and service departments performed admirably following the Oct. 29 storm, and that may have contributed to residents understanding the need to keep personnel in both departments staffed. Zilka expressed concern that had the levy failed, services, such as tree limb and leaf removal could end. 

"They did a great job," Zilka said. "They showed their mettle and abilities during (last) week. But we'll continue to be as frugal as possible. We have to do that for additional challenges we'll be facing in 2014 and 15.

Eisenhardt credit the "many individuals" who were made themselves available during the campaign.

"Without their tireless efforts to interact with our residents, this outcome would not have been possible," Eisenhardt said.

Approximately 27 percent of the Avon Lake Fire Department’s funding for the medical services is generated from the levy. The balance comes from the department’s general fund.

Council members and fire officials previously said that up to eight of the 28 firefighter positions could be cut if the levy fails. The levy pays for eight firefighters and a dispatcher. It also helps pay for vehicles, equipment and medical operating costs.

The levy is a 1.25-mill replacement and .75-mill increase. It will cost average homeowners approximately $22 more per year.

Results remain unofficial until certified by the Lorain County Board of Elections.