By: Brenna White
THE VILLAGE REPORTER
publisher@thevillagereporter.com
The North Central Board of Education met in regular session on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, in the school’s auditorium to discuss tax abatements and the necessity of adopting a school district income tax.
The board adopted a resolution declaring the necessity of raising $939,947 annually for school district purposes pursuant to a school district income tax. “I think there needs to be a lot of discussion with a lot of people who don’t seem to understand it,” Haynes added.
After the failure of the levy in the 2025 November election, this marks the fifth time the levy has been shot down.
A five-year 1% earned income tax was put on the fall ballot but was narrowly unsuccessful with a total of 51.02% of residents voting against it.
The board reported that while financials stay stable for now, expenses are only expected to continue rising throughout the years.
According to the financial forecast, revenue is projected to remain unchanged at $9.7 million and is well underway to surpass predicted expenses as early as 2027. Expenses could jump as high as $10.8 million annually, or more, by fiscal year 2029.
Additionally, an abatement involving a 100% abatement with a 30% donation to North Central Schools was adopted, pending a final enterprise zone agreement. The Board completed roll call, the Pledge of Allegiance, and a roll call.
A motion was approved to appoint a Treasurer Pro Tempore for the meeting in accordance with the ORC code. The treasurer’s report included the previous meeting’s minutes from November 25, 2025, financial statements, and investment reports for the month of November. A “Then and Now” purchase order totaling $20,000 to Parkview Health was approved.
Superintendent Michael Bute’s report included expressions of thanks and appreciation, discussion on the district’s culture, and a calendar update for the 2026-2027 school year. He also reviewed the Northwest Ohio Educational Service Center Business Advisory Council materials.
Bute noted that no work session will take place before the next January 13, 2026, meeting. Instead, an organizational meeting to prepare for the new year will take place directly before the school board.
The official date and time of the January 2026 organizational meeting was scheduled for January 13, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. Kati Burt was appointed as President Pro Tempore before the election at the organizational session.
Chuck Haynes was recognized for his service on the North Central School Board as his term ended. Under recommendations, the dues for the 2026 Ohio School Boards Association membership were passed.
The board moved forward with the second reading of the proposed Neola policy revisions related to nondiscrimination updates.
A cell phone policy was adopted to align with the newly passed House Bill 96, and the school’s handbook will be adjusted to recognize the new rules. Students will not be allowed to use their phones during school hours, which includes the lunch period.
Items in the consent agenda were approved as presented, including the resignations of Kathleen Hellard and Kayle Vasko. Extended service contracts and extra-duty assignments for Renee Reasoner, Megan Carpenter, and Anthony Kidston as Boys Head Varsity Baseball Coach were also passed.