Office of the Treasurer

Highland Schools welcomes new treasurer

Neil W. Barnes, CPA, has joined the Highland Local School District as its new Treasurer, effective August 1, 2010. He replaces Mary M. Markle, who retired July 31, 2010 after 25 years in the Highland District. Mr. Barnes has over 10 years experience in finance and accounting. He previously served as Treasurer/CFO of the Streetsboro City School District. His career experience also includes four years as assistant treasurer at Orange City Schools and nearly three years as an audit manager for the State of Ohio. In addition, he was a senior accountant for Deloitte & Touche, LLP. Mr. Barnes earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting from the University of Akron, where he graduated summa cum laude. He is a Certified Public Accountant and is a member of the Ohio Association of School Business Officials. He resides in Medina with his wife and daughter.

Neil Barnes	Treasurer
Sherri Gager	Treasurer's Asst.-Payroll/Insurance
Kathy Brashares	Treasurer's Asst. - EMIS/ESIS/Leaves.
Joan Lawrence	Assistant Treasurer - accounts payable
Cindy Brenstuhl	Assistant Treasurer - accounts payable/inventory

QUICK LINK: www.medinacountyauditor.org

Homestead Exemption: Tax Break for Seniors & Disabled Citizens
    A few years ago, Governor Strickland and the Ohio General Assembly enacted a new tax break for seniors and disabled citizens. Unlike the former Homestead Exemption, this plan does not include an income ceiling. The plan allows homeowners age 65 or older, permanently and totally disabled, or surviving spouses aged 59 to 64 of persons who apply and qualify for the tax reduction to receive the exemption. This new exemption began in tax year 2007 for real property homeowners. For manufactured homes, it began in tax year 2008. For purposes of the new exemption, $25,000 is subtracted from the market value of the home. The tax rates that apply to the property would be calculated on the lower value resulting in a tax reduction.
    Note: Homeowners who currently receive the Homestead Exemption will automatically qualify for the expanded exemption and do not have to reapply. Homeowners must apply through their county auditor's office for the new exemption. The application deadline for receiving the exemption is the first Monday in June. Seniors and Disabled citizens who own their homes are urged to apply. The new exemption will apply to current levies and any passed in the future. This new exemption has the effect of reducing the property tax burden for homeowners who qualify.
    The Ohio Department of Taxation has prepared a flier with information about this exemption and who to contact with questions. The following is the web address for accessing a copy of the flier: http://tax.ohio.gov/divisions/communications/homestead_exemption_information.stm

FINANCIAL ADVISORY PANEL RECOMMENDS MAY 2010 LEVY

icon Financial Advisory Panel Presentation (2/16/10)

icon March 2010 Edition of Your Money Matter$

icon December 2009 Edition of Your Money Matter$

icon October 2009 Edition of Your Money Matter$

icon March 2009 Edition of Your Money Matter$

icon Summer 2008 Edition of Your Money Matter$

icon March 2008 Edition of Your Money Matter$

icon Financial Advisory Panel

icon General Fund, Revenue and Expenditure Chart 2004-2005

icon Comprehensive Annual Report (Year Ended 2003)

icon Comprehensive Annual Report (Year Ended 2004)

icon Comprehensive Annual Report (Year Ended 2005)

icon Comprehensive Annual Report (Year Ended 2006)

icon Comprehensive Annual Report (Year Ended 2007)

icon Comprehensive Annual Report (Year Ended 2008)

icon Comprehensive Annual Report (Year Ended 2009)

icon 2006-2007 General Fund Information

Last Updated on Thursday, 05 August 2010 13:35

Mission Statement

The Highland Local School District is committed to the highest academic and behavioral expectations. Our mission is to guarantee that each learner reaches his/her potential, by providing, in partnership with the community, a quality, progressive, educational program in a safe and dynamic life-long learning environment.