Logan County voters will decide in November whether to approve a five-year property tax levy supporting community developmental disabilities programs and services.
The proposed levy will appear on the November 3 general election ballot throughout Logan County.
The ballot language states:
“An additional tax for the benefit of Logan County for the purposes of community Developmental Disabilities program and services, that the county auditor estimates will collect $4,200,000 annually, at a rate not exceeding 2 mills for each $1 of taxable value, which amounts to $70 for each $100,000 of the county auditor’s market value, for 5 years, commencing in 2026, first due in calendar year 2027.”
Voters will choose either For the Tax Levy or Against the Tax Levy.
According to the Logan County Board of Developmental Disabilities, the funding would support services for more than 700 county residents with developmental disabilities and their families.
According to the board, it has operated under its current local levy since 2005 and has not received additional levy funding in 21 years.
The cost of providing services has increased by 46 percent during that time, while the number of people served has increased by 27 percent.
Officials also point to a state-mandated 30 percent increase in provider rates as a factor contributing to higher costs.
The board has already reduced programs, eliminated staff positions, consolidated operations into one building, pursued grants, and worked to maximize reimbursements in an effort to manage expenses.
The board has adopted a Service Reduction Plan that would be implemented if the levy does not pass.
Potential reductions or eliminations could include Discovery Center Preschool, Special Olympics, Family Support Services, and Early Intervention.
Special Olympics: A Major Part of Local Services
Special Olympics is a significant part of the Logan County Board of Developmental Disabilities’ recreational programming.
The program provides year-round sports training and competition for individuals with developmental disabilities, promoting inclusion, teamwork, friendship, and community involvement.
The LCBDD currently has 114 athletes participating in seven Special Olympics sports: bowling, basketball, track and field, softball, flag football, equestrian, and cheer.
Athletes compete locally and can advance to regional, state, and national competitions.
The program serves athletes across a range of abilities, from those learning the basics of a sport to athletes participating in competitive events.
Participation is provided at no cost to athletes under Special Olympics Ohio guidelines.
The Board provides support through its full-time recreation coordinator, transportation, and coach stipends, while community donations help cover expenses such as uniforms, equipment, facilities, referees, registration fees, and some travel costs.
The organization says participation provides benefits beyond athletics, including confidence, friendships, leadership skills, and a greater sense of belonging.
Volunteers are also an important part of the program.
Volunteers must complete a background check and maintain certification through Special Olympics Ohio.
Those interested in volunteering can contact Rose Canter at 937-292-5887.
Other recreational volunteer opportunities are available through Staci Nichols at 937-897-7754.
Rose and Staci joined April King on 98.3 WPKO’s show Listen Up! Sunday morning:
Other Services
Early Intervention helps young children reach developmental milestones, while Discovery Center Preschool provides specialized education and support.
Family Support Services help families access resources, and Special Olympics provides athletic and social opportunities for adults receiving Board services.
Supporters of the levy, including the Yes for Abilities campaign, say the funding is needed to maintain services currently available to county residents.
The campaign says local property tax revenue makes up about 62 percent of the agency’s funding, with the remainder coming from state and federal sources and grants.
The Logan County Board of Developmental Disabilities can also be contacted at 937-592-0015 for information about the proposed levy and its potential effect on services.
The final decision will be made by Logan County voters on November 3.
