Friday, October 14th, 2022
Vote '22
School tax levy on St. Marys ballot
By Bob Tomaszewski
ST. MARYS - St. Marys school district residents will be asked to determine whether a five-year, 1% earned income tax levy will be renewed at the Nov. 8 general election.
The levy, which expires in December 2023, is expected to generate $3,042,636 for the district, district treasurer Andrew Wilker said. If renewed, the levy will continue from January 2024 through December 2029.
"This will be the first time that it is up to the voters for renewal," superintendent Bill Ruane said. "It goes to support our general operating expenses."
General expenses include salaries, curriculum and classroom expenses, transportation and technology, Wilker said. Ruane said the funding will further improve the district's academics, arts and athletics.
"We are asking for another five year commitment, and take it to the voters so that they can make sure we are spending money appropriately, that they are comfortable with the direction of the school," he said.
In spring 2018, voters rejected a 1.5% income tax levy.
The levy went back on the ballot in the fall of 2018 as a 1% income tax levy, which was approved by more than 55% of voters.
Wilker said the levy doesn't tax income sources such as social security, unemployment or pensions. All six school districts in Auglaize County currently have an income tax levy, he said.
