Strongsville residents raise concerns over elementary school rebuild plan

Neighbors worry about noise, dust, and a potential pipeline issue with the proposed $3.43 million bond issue

Apr. 7, 2026 at 9:56pm

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A bold, stylized grid of school bus icons in bright neon colors, conceptually representing the debate over the future of Strongsville's elementary education facilities.A community divided over plans to rebuild aging elementary schools in Strongsville, Ohio.Strongsville Today

Strongsville City Schools is putting a $3.43 million bond issue on the May ballot to fund the construction and renovation of several elementary schools. However, some residents living near Surrarer Elementary are concerned about the plan, citing issues like noise and dust pollution, as well as an alleged pipeline running through the proposed construction site. While some parents support the bond to improve aging facilities, the neighbors say more clarity is needed before they can back the proposal.

Why it matters

The bond issue is a critical decision for the Strongsville community, as the district's previous levy attempts have failed. The outcome could significantly impact the future of elementary education in the area, with implications for both residents and families.

The details

The bond would fund the rebuilding and renovation of several Strongsville elementary schools, including Surrarer Elementary. Neighbors Marita Kontour and Beverly Montie, who have lived behind Surrarer for over 30 years, say they're worried about the school being moved closer to their homes, causing noise and dust pollution. They also claim there is an unknown pipeline running through the proposed construction site that could complicate the plans. Meanwhile, parent Patrick Miltner supports the bond after touring the aging facilities, while Strongsville City Councilman Jim Kaminski says the rebuilding plans could still be adjusted based on feedback.

  • The $3.43 million bond issue will be on the ballot in May 2026.
  • Strongsville City Schools previously attempted three levy measures that failed.

The players

Marita Kontour

A longtime resident living behind Surrarer Elementary who is concerned about the proposed rebuild plan.

Beverly Montie

A neighbor of Surrarer Elementary who has lived in the area for over 30 years and is worried about the impact of the school's reconstruction.

Patrick Miltner

A parent who plans to enroll his children in Strongsville Schools and supports the bond issue to improve aging facilities.

Jim Kaminski

A Strongsville City Councilman who is backing the bond issue, but says the rebuilding plans could still be adjusted based on feedback.

Strongsville City Schools

The school district putting the $3.43 million bond issue on the May 2026 ballot to fund the construction and renovation of several elementary schools.

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What they’re saying

“I've enjoyed having the kids back there.”

— Marita Kontour

“It's far enough away the building itself, and when they're out on the field playing soccer, that's not a problem at all.”

— Beverly Montie

“I think there's noise pollution, dust pollution. They want to bring the busses all the way around all the perimeter of the field now, which affects all the houses on your three different streets.”

— Beverly Montie

“For me, there's no question like you have to invest in these kids in the facilities that we educate them in.”

— Patrick Miltner, Parent

“We want to be able to support our schools so our community stays strong.”

— Jim Kaminski, Strongsville City Councilman

What’s next

Strongsville City Council will need to approve the final rebuilding plans for the elementary schools, and the district superintendent says the plans could still be adjusted based on feedback.

The takeaway

The proposed $3.43 million bond issue for Strongsville elementary school renovations has divided the community, with some residents concerned about the impact on their neighborhoods while others see it as a necessary investment. The outcome of the May vote could have lasting implications for the district and its students.