Executive Ed FitzGerald credits a corruption free government.
(Cleveland) - Cuyahoga County Executive Ed FitzGerald announced today that $5.25 million is being returned to local communities in a real estate assessment refund.
It's the first time such monies have been returned since 2000. FitzGerald credits the reformed county government which was brought about new efficiencies in the appraisal of property, and the collection of taxes. He also says money was saved by ending county corruption.
FitzGerald maintains former auditor Frank Russo had an unnecessarily large staff, consisting of many employees who actually paid for their jobs.
At the same time FitzGerald says Russo hired and overpaid outside contractors who gave him kickbacks.
CH/UH School Supt. Douglas Heuer, Ed FitzGerald, and Lakewood Schools Supt. Jeffrey Patterson
Of the $5.5 million, over $3 million is being returned to local school districts. The rest to local municipalities, and other government entities.
Nearly $117,000 is being returned to the Lakewood Schools, and Superintendent Jeff Patterson says they will spend it on technology for their students.
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