Greetings:

In my nearly two years as mayor, we have accomplished so much together. We have reformed our police department, brought new jobs to our city, cleared the way for new housing, improved city services and made our local schools into the best large city district in Ohio!

Now, our great city is at a crossroads. Will we continue to improve? Or, will we take a step backwards? These very questions will be answered in our upcoming general election when Parma residents decide on Issue 116 and Issue 117.

Vote YES on Issue 116. Issue 116 would bring needed income tax reform to Parma.

Issue 116 would raise Parma's income tax from 2 percent to 2.5 percent. As a result, the city would provide a 2 percent income tax credit - giving most Parma residents a tax cut.

Issue 116 is fair to all Parma residents. This tax reform would ensure that non-residents who work in our city would pay their fair share of taxes.

• Most Parma residents who work outside the city would see an income tax cut after Issue 116 passes.
• Parma retirees would see no increase in their taxes. In fact, Issue 116 could help prevent future property tax increases for our seniors.
• In the long run, all Parma residents would pay less in taxes, as the burden shifts to non-Parma residents. Issue 116 helps prevent future city income and property tax increases.

Vote NO on Issue 117. Led by a controversial lawyer from Avon, a handful of disgruntled residents who filed unsuccessful lawsuits against our city have now vindictively placed Issue 117 on the November ballot.

Make no mistake, Issue 117 would devastate Parma. It would eliminate up to 20% of our city's revenues. Here's what would happen if Issue 117 passes:

• Reductions in EMS staff and the closing of several fire stations. Issue 117 would lead to slower response time, putting your family at risk.
• Less money to invest in attracting new jobs to Parma. Efforts to retain current jobs would be hurt as well.
• Parma recreation programs would be slashed. City pools and the ice rink would close - no more hockey leagues and swimming lessons. Baseball, soccer and softball would be cut as well.
• Many programs for senior citizens would be put in jeopardy.

Don't let them ruin Parma. I urge you to vote No on Issue 117.

It's a new day in Parma. We shouldn't go back to the failed policies of the past. Instead, we should vote for progress - we should vote for an even brighter tomorrow for Parma residents. On November 8th, let's vote to make our city even better. To continue Parma's progress, I urge you to vote YES on Issue 116 and NO on Issue 117.

Together, we can make Parma an even better place to live, work and raise a family.

PS. If you have any questions or comments about Issues 116 & 117, please feel free to send an e-mail to ParmaFairTaxation@hotmail.com.

Dean DePiero