Berlin Heights issues explained

BERLIN HEIGHTS — On Election Day, Nov. 7, Berlin Heights voters can weigh in on three village-specific issues. Those issues, Nos. 16-18, on Erie County's ballot solely pertain to those who call the village home. With help from Berlin Heights Mayor Connie Ward, here's some insight into each one: Issue 16 • The issue: 3-mill, five-year renewal levy for current expenses. If approved, taxes will not increase. • The money: This levy brings in about $73,000 a year. If voters approve the levy, then this amount would be maintained. • The purpose: "The money will be used for the maintenance, operation and repair of public buildings, parks and streets." Issues 17-18 • The issue: Issue 17, for electric aggregation, and Issue 18, for gas aggregation, "would allow village residents to participate in electric and gas aggregation." — "A 'yes' vote would allow village residents to use combined purchasing power to secure a discount on these commodities." — "All Ohio Edison and Columbia Gas customers would be automatically enrolled unless they are already in a third-party supply agreement. There is no fee to opt out of the program." • The purpose: "With the rising prices of utilities, we wanted to help residents lower their utility bills." Want to go? Berlin Heights scheduled an information meeting — 7 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 25 at the village's municipal building, 8 W. Main St. — for those with questions on the electric and gas aggregation issues. A virtual option for those who can't attend in person will be available. For more information, check the village's website, villageofberlinheights.com, or its Facebook page.