By Cindi Andrews
The Cincinnati Enquirer
LEBANON - Levies for two social services agencies - Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities, and Mental Health Recovery Services of Clinton and Warren Counties - are among a bevy of ballot issues facing Warren County voters Nov. 5.
MRDD is seeking a 4-mill replacement levy to provide services to growing numbers of mentally retarded residents. It's the agency's first appeal to voters since its board and superintendent resigned over a financial scandal almost three years ago.
"They have pulled out of their problems," County Commissioner Pat South said. "The commissioners have continued to monitor MRDD, and they have done a wonderful job of not only improving their financial accountability but also services to their clients."
The levy would add $6.5 million to the $8.7 million generated by levies passed in 1980 and 1990. It would cost the owner of a $100,000 home an additional $61 a year.
Mental Health Recovery Services treats people with mental illness and drug and alcohol addiction. The agency is requesting a 1-mill replacement levy, which would cost the owner of a $100,000 home an additional $14 a year.
Mental Health, however, passed a 1-mill renewal in 2001, and the commissioners tried unsuccessfully to persuade the board not to place a levy this year to give MRDD's levy a better shot. Agency officials say the waiting list for Mental Health services could grow by 1,000 people and 28 jobs could be cut if the replacement levy fails.
Mental Health, like MRDD, has seen a rising demand for services. Both agencies face deficits and longer waiting lists for services beginning next year if their levies don't pass, officials say.
Several communities also are seeking more money from voters. Lebanon leads the pack with a request to raise its income tax from 1 percent to 1.5 percent. Residents who work in other cities would be credited for taxes paid elsewhere.
The increase is needed, City Manager George "Pat" Clements says, because the cost of city services has exceeded revenue for several years, draining cash reserves. The increase would bring an additional $2 million a year into the general fund, officials say.
Several area cities, including Franklin and Springboro, have a 1.5 percent income tax, although Mason, Loveland and South Lebanon take just 1 percent.
Other issues on the ballot:
Harlan Township: 1.6-mill, five-year fire levy renewal. No additional cost to taxpayers.
Harveysburg: 2.5-mill, five-year replacement levy for village operations and 1-mill, five-year replacement levy for the police department. Total tax on $100,000 house: $107 for both.
Union Township: 3-mill additional continuing levy for the fire department. Additional cost to owner of $100,000 house: $91 a year.
Washington Township: 1-mill, four-year fire levy renewal and 1.06-mill, four-year fire levy renewal. No increase in taxes.
E-mail candrews@enquirer.com
