Concerns about New Philadelphia school levy

New Philadelphia City Schools’ 6.2-mill levy will once again be on the ballot in November. If approved, it would generate more than $72 million plus a required additional levy, and it would run for 37 years. That means today’s newborns could still be paying on this when they are adults.

According to the ballot language, Issue 19 would cost homeowners $252 per year for every $100,000 of property value.

As one example, I receive a homestead exemption but would still pay an additional $464.92, on top of my property taxes of $2,483.14.

I ask voters to consider:

What happens if you get sick, grow older or lose your job? Will this burden still be affordable?

In December, the county will comply with state law and complete a triennial update, which will reassess taxes.

We are already paying another school levy until 2033.

Buckeye Career Center has two levies, one expiring in 2028 and another in 2032. Mental health services have a 10-year levy. Senior citizens programs are funded with a five-year levy. The library levy is permanent.

Adding more long-term obligations raises a serious question: How can residents manage all of this?

My late husband worked as maintenance supervisor for New Philadelphia Schools. He kept the buildings functioning as they aged. If our schools are not being maintained now, how will we afford new ones?

Vote no on the New Philadelphia City School levy.

Jody Pearch

New Philadelphia