EDUCATION

Voters decide crucial local levies and emergency response expansion

PUBLISHED May 5, 2026, 11:13 PM ET

Read, Watch or Listen

Media Bias Meter

Sources: 7

Center 100%

Sources: 7

Cincinnati-area and statewide localities saw ballot decisions this week as voters approved and rejected several tax levies and a Columbus charter amendment. On Tuesday's primary, North College Hill voters rejected a 1.25% earned income tax and other districts presented levies, while Washington Township and Columbus saw measures pass in early tallies and precinct reporting. In Cincinnati, North College Hill faces continued budget strain after March layoffs and a $2 million shortfall; Washington Township early results showed 61% support for a 0.9-mill levy to fund three positions. In Columbus, voters approved a charter amendment with 77% support this week, enabling 24/7 nonpolice response teams with phased implementation beginning in 2028 and full operation by 2030.

By Noormahi M. | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

March: North College Hill laid off 18 teachers and five staff amid state funding decline.
Early May: Multiple local levies and measures appeared on primary ballots across jurisdictions.
Early unofficial results: Washington Twp. levy reported 61% approval to fund police additions.
Wednesday night: Columbus charter amendment passed with 77% approval to expand nonpolice responses.
August (planned): Spokane County Library District to place a maintenance levy increase on the August ballot.

News Intelligence

These voting results directly impact your wallet and safety. Tax levies fund local services like schools and emergency response. In Cincinnati, school layoffs and budget shortfalls could continue. In Columbus, nonpolice response teams are set to expand. Check your local government website for details on how these changes may affect you.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 7
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 7

Who Benefited

Voters approving levies will enable school districts, library systems, police services, and Columbus 911-alternative programs to maintain or expand staffing, facilities, and non-police response teams according to each measure's stated uses and timelines.

Who Impacted

Residents in areas where levies failed face potential program cuts, staff reductions, and reduced services, while taxpayers in passing districts will see modest property tax increases to fund operations and capital needs.

Media Bias