Chillicothe School children need the levy passed
The May 5th primary election will see an income tax levy for the children in pre-school through 12th grade of the Chillicothe City Schools. After recent major cuts to save money, this levy must be passed to avoid further dismantling of school programs. The levy is not a property tax and will not tax pensions, social security, interest or dividend income. It will only tax wages, salaries, earned income and self-employment.
Why is the levy needed now? State and national funding has not increased to cover the expenses our public schools incur. Even if the levy passes, there will still be millions of dollars of personnel and programs cut to balance the budget. I hate to see larger class sizes, pay-to-play sports teams, elimination of popular programs, cutting of more staff and fewer opportunities for the kids who need and deserve the best education possible.
I appreciate the Chillicothe citizens who supported my wife and I when we were city school students and the ones who supported my two children when they were students. I hope Chillicothe’s voters will approve the income tax levy to give every Chillicothe child a chance at the education that they need and deserve for a bright future.
Don Gatchell
Chillicothe
Support for Chillicothe schools
As the Treasurer of the Chillicothe High School Band Boosters, I am writing to express strong support for the proposed Chillicothe City Schools earned income tax levy.
As someone who helps manage finances for a program that relies on community support, I see firsthand how important stable funding is. School-supported activities like band, athletics, the arts, and other extracurriculars depend on a strong foundation within the district. When school funding is strained, these opportunities are often among the first to feel the impact.
Although my youngest child is now a high school senior, my support for Chillicothe schools has not ended. I remain committed to ensuring that future students have the same opportunities and experiences that have benefited my own children.
Because this levy is based on earned income rather than property values, it is structured in a way that reflects a resident’s ability to pay and does not burden those living on fixed retirement incomes. Just as importantly, the funds remain local and are directed toward maintaining essential educational services.
I encourage our community to consider both the immediate needs and the long-term impact. Supporting this levy is an investment in the programs and experiences that help shape well-rounded, successful students.James HillChillicothe
This article originally appeared on Chillicothe Gazette: Letters to the Editor support Chillicothe school levy
Reporting by Chillicothe Gazette / Chillicothe Gazette
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