Berkshire and Ledgemont school boards have each unanimously voted to move forward with a territory transfer, clearing the first major hurdles for a merger of the two districts.
The votes were taken at separate meetings on Jan. 26.
Previously, Geauga Educational Service Center Superintendent Matthew Galemmo said the ESC’s initation of the transfer, which is part of the complete transfer process, would not take place without both boards’ approval. Geauga ESC Treasurer Lorrie Petersen said no negative discussions surrounding the issue have been heard.
The Geauga ESC Board is expected to vote on a resolution to initiate the transfer at a meeting on Jan. 27.
If passed, a 30-day referendum period would take place.
During that time Ledgemont residents may file a petition opposing the transfer if they can obtain a designated amount of signatures from qualified electors who both live in the Ledgemont District and who voted in the last election.
If such a petition is not presented, Geauga ESC must approve a second resolution making the transfer effective on or before June 30. Once the second resolution is passed the Berkshire board must vote to accept the transfer.
This article, with video, will be updated later today.
