CENTRAL OHIO -
The deadline is fast approaching for school districts to be able to put their levies on the ballot in time for May.
Every school district is facing some sort of decrease in state funding.
Many districts have made cuts to balance their budgets, and others cannot cut anymore, and are turning to voters to keep operating.
Several school districts are asking for more money, while others are asking for levy renewals.
Johnstown-Monroe Local School District delayed asking for a bond levy this year, but is asking voters for a levy renewal, which means there will not be an increase in taxes for voters.
District officials said they need the 8.5-mill levy to generate $2.2 million each year for four years. Owners of a $100,000 property already pay the $260.13 annually.
For Groveport Madison Local School District, a proposed 7.08-mill emergency levy has already divided voters.
"I am really concerned about it because I feel like enough is enough. We are paying huge property taxes down here and we are a very small community of 6,000 people," said John Cunningham, who is against the levy.
"I believe in the system and I don't want my taxes raised either. Who does? But something needs to be done and they are just trying to stay afloat," said Kathy Frank, a supporter of the levy.
The levy will cost about $217 more per year in property taxes on every $100,000 of property value.
District officials said they are trying to overcome a $4.5 million shortfall.
In Knox County, Mount Vernon City Schools decided to put a 5.6-mill levy on the ballot in May.
District officials said the levy would generate $3 million for operating expenses.
It would cost $171 each year for every $100,000 of property value.
The deadline to get an issue on the ballot is Wednesday at 4 p.m.
