Retirees urge support for New Philadelphia school levy

As retirees and members of the New Philadelphia Schools bond levy committee, we are proud to support this important investment in our community’s future and respectfully ask that you join us. Our schools are the heart of New Philadelphia, shaping the next generation of leaders, workers and neighbors.

This levy represents more than funding—it is a commitment to providing safe, modern, and effective learning environments for our students. Strong schools strengthen property values and help attract families and businesses. This investment pays dividends beyond the classroom by supporting our long-term economic vitality. We live in a wonderful, supportive community, and we want it to remain a thriving place to live and raise children.

Many of our school facilities are aging and no longer meet today’s educational standards. By approving this levy, we can address critical infrastructure needs and improve the safety of our buildings for students and staff. These upgrades will serve our community for decades to come.

If approved in May, our district is eligible for up to $80 million in state funding which is more than half the cost of the project. Passing the levy now also gives us the opportunity to create a single-campus plan along state Route 39 just east of town—bringing our students and staff together in a more efficient, collaborative and secure environment.

The proposed levy is based on earned income rather than a traditional property tax. This means the levy is a flat percentage of wages or self-employment income, adjusting fairly as income rises or falls. Just as importantly, retirement income—including Social Security, pensions, and investment earnings—is not taxed. This structure helps protect our seniors and others on fixed incomes from additional financial burden.

This proposal has been carefully designed with community input to be both fiscally responsible and a comprehensive solution to address the many needs of the district and city. We encourage our community to come together and vote in favor of the New Philadelphia Schools proposed bond levy this May. Together, we can build a stronger future for all New Philadelphians.

Elizabeth Stephenson, retired public servant

Paul McEwan, retired CPA

New Philadelphia