In a resounding victory for Ohio’s Wood County, a $2.45 million renewal levy recently passed with a notable 65% to 35% margin. The success of this initiative marks a significant milestone for the Wood County Board of Developmental Disabilities, renewing hope and support within the community.
Understanding the margin: a closer look at the levy’s success
The margin of victory, with 29,622 votes in favor and 15,949 against, represents a substantial win for the developmental disabilities community.
Superintendent of the Wood County Board of Developmental Disabilities Brent Baer clarifies this, explaining, “It passed by just under 14,000 votes.” Examining historical voter turnout, Baer notes that the roughly 45,000 voters in Wood County participating in the election align with past trends. “We’re certainly very appreciative of the support that the voters of Wood County have given us.”
With the levy’s renewal, the Wood County Board of Developmental Disabilities aims to navigate the challenges posed by a significant increase in service requests over the last decade.
“We are 44% larger than the number of individuals enrolled in services in 2023 compared to 2013,” Baer said.
Notably, the enrollment for children aged 0 to 21 has experienced a remarkable growth of 56%, reflecting both an increase in cases and an enhanced acceptance of seeking help. The board actively responds to these shifts by expanding staff, avoiding waiting lists, and ensuring families receive timely support.
Fostering inclusivity and community involvement
The benefits of the levy renewal extend beyond the developmental disabilities community, positively impacting the entire Wood County community.
“It will benefit everyone. The more inclusive and aware our communities are, the easier it is for us to grow and prosper together,” Baer said.
The board actively seeks partnerships and collaborations with external entities, aiming to be an integral part of the greater community rather than a small segment.
Reflecting on the community’s evolution, Baer discussed the increased inclusivity in events like tractor pulls and art fairs. Baer noted the unique support from the National Tractor Pulls group, emphasizing their welcoming atmosphere.
“As families continue to reach out to us, they truly appreciate being from a community that welcomes them with open arms,” he said.
Getting involved: opportunities for engagement
For those looking to get involved, Baer suggests exploring the numerous events hosted by the Wood County Board of Developmental Disabilities. The annual June Firefly Nights community festival stands out. It features products and artwork created by individuals receiving services from Wood County. There are volunteer opportunities abound, including engagement with service clubs, Special Olympics and recreational programs.
Communications Coordinator Charese Botjer said, “Speaking about inclusivity in other areas, our recreation and wellness program strives to provide experiences and opportunities for individuals, not just within Wood County but beyond.”
The program actively engages individuals in outings and experiences, fostering transferable skills and introducing them to new communities.
A collaborative future: parks and beyond
Baer highlights collaborative projects like Wood County Plays, a partnership with the city of Perrysburg, which contributes to developing an inclusive park called Rotary Park.
“Regardless of where you live, you can help our system grow in a way that truly meets the needs of the greater community,” Baer said. The impact extends further as Perrysburg city council allocated funds to enhance the accessibility of other parks, creating a ripple effect that positively influences neighboring communities.
In closing, the Wood County Board of Developmental Disabilities expresses deep gratitude for the community’s ongoing support. The renewal levy’s success not only secures the current services for the developmental disabilities community but also sets the stage for inclusive growth and collaboration across Wood County. As the community continues to evolve, the board remains dedicated to its mission, fostering a spirit of acceptance, inclusivity, and teamwork that benefits all residents.
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