Voters Approve Local Tax Levies in Ohio and Kentucky

Voters in three municipalities approved local tax levies on November 3 to fund essential public services. In Cincinnati, nearly 61% of voters approved a five-year, 7-mill operating levy for Cincinnati Public Schools. The measure is expected to generate approximately $66.3 million annually to cover rising costs and preserve programs for more than 34,000 students.

District officials described the levy as a last resort after three years of budget cuts exceeding $100 million. The new funds will be used to implement a strategic plan, avoid further staff reductions, and address deferred facilities maintenance. Homeowners will pay an estimated $245 per $100,000 of home market value starting next year.

In Lake County, voters narrowly approved a 3.5-mill additional levy for Mentor Public Schools with 15,484 votes in favor and 15,313 against. This five-year levy will generate $9.6 million annually for the general operating budget, avoiding potential cuts to athletics, transportation, and non-state-mandated curriculum. This approval follows the rejection of a larger 4.9-mill levy in May.

Additionally, voters in Lexington approved a five-year levy for the Lexington Fire Department with 67 votes in favor and 50 against. The tax will raise an estimated $116,539 over five years to fund public safety operations and equipment, costing property owners $1.50 per $1,000 of assessed property value.