Marion, OH – The Marion County Board of Developmental Disabilities (MCBDD) is asking voters to renew an expired 3.0-mill levy to ensure the continuation of essential services for children and adults with developmental disabilities throughout Marion County. The levy renewal request is for a five-year term.
This levy is a renewal of the expired levy originally approved in 2020. This is not a new tax. The request would continue funding for local services supporting individuals with developmental disabilities and their families. For a homeowner with a property valued at $100,000, the annual cost would remain the same and be approximately $67.08.
“It is important for residents to understand that this is not a request for new taxes,” said Cheryl Plaster, superintendent of the Marion County Board of DD. “This levy simply renews funding that has expired and allows us to continue providing services that many Marion County families depend upon every day.”
MCBDD currently serves over 1,000 individuals across Marion County through a variety of programs and supports that help people with developmental disabilities live, learn, and work in the community. Services funded through local levy dollars include therapies, transportation assistance, community integration opportunities, family supports, employment services, technology, adaptive equipment, and programs through partner providers that help individuals achieve greater independence and quality of life.
A common misconception is that increases in property values automatically generate additional revenue for county developmental disability services. However, under Ohio law, property revaluations conducted by the County Auditor do not result in additional revenue for the Marion County Board of Developmental Disabilities. As a result, rising property values do not provide the funding necessary to offset increasing service demands and operational costs.
The need for services continues to grow. Since 2020, MCBDD has experienced a significant increase in the number of individuals seeking support (over 200 new people) and a 36 percent increase in state-mandated service costs. Renewing the levy would allow the organization to continue meeting those needs, but cuts to critical services will still be necessary for Marion County residents.
The consequences of a failed levy would be significant. Without renewal funding, MCBDD would be forced to make substantial reductions to programs and supports that individuals and families rely upon every day. Services such as therapies, transportation assistance, community integration outings, and other quality-of-life programs could be greatly reduced or eliminated altogether.
“This levy is about protecting services that help our neighbors, friends, and family members remain active and engaged in our community,” Commissioner Kevin Davidson said. “The renewal will help ensure that individuals with developmental disabilities continue to receive necessary support.”
The Marion County Board of Developmental Disabilities remains committed to fiscal responsibility and transparency while providing high-quality services to county residents. Community members are encouraged to learn more about the levy and the impact of MCBDD services by visiting the agency’s website and social media channels or calling 740-387-1035 to schedule a visit.
For more information, including a detailed Q&A and personal stories from those served, visit the MCBDD website.
MUM SALE DETAILS