By Sue Kiesewetter
Enquirer contributor

FAIRFIELD - Spending on maintenance in Fairfield City Schools would more than double if voters approve a 2-mill replacement permanent improvement levy that the board of education is poised to put on the May 6 ballot.

The replacement levy would provide an estimated $2 million each of the next five years with collections beginning in January, said J. Scott Gooding II, treasurer. The current levy is set to expire at the end of this year.

It was first approved in 1978 and has been renewed every five years since by voters. It brings about $885,000 a year.

Taxes on a $100,000 home would increase about $45, Gooding said.

"This has been the levy that has kept our buildings in such great shape," said Superintendent Robert Farrell.

"It doesn't pull dollars away from the general fund."

Board members on Thursday adopted a resolution of necessity and asked the Butler County auditor to certify the issue. A second resolution to put the measure on the ballot will be voted on at a special board meeting set for 8 a.m. Monday in administrative offices.

Over the past five years the levy paid for roof repairs at the middle school and Central Elementary, heating repairs at five buildings, ventilation improvements at three schools, replacement of the fire alarm system at the intermediate building and security throughout the district, said Robert Amodio, administrative assistant for business.

The replacement levy would pay for new roofs or roof repairs at seven schools. Money to be spent at individual schools over the five-year period ranges from a low of $126,647 at East Elementary to a high of $1.27 million at the middle school. There is also $1.47 million set aside to upgrade technology in the district and a $683,909 contingency fund for unexpected repairs.

Over the next month projects will be placed on a five-year schedule for completion.

"The most urgent needs will be met first along with any projects that affect health or safety," Amodio said. Roof replacement at North and West elementary school would be placed high on the schedule, he added.

E-mail suek@infi.net