CHILLICOTHE, Ohio — Voters weighed in on a slate of local tax issues Tuesday, delivering early, unofficial results that show several measures either narrowly divided or trending toward defeat as precincts continue to report.
According to unofficial totals from the Ross County Board of Elections, the Chillicothe City School District income tax is currently trailing by a slim margin, with 1,580 votes against and 1,525 in favor. The proposal sought to renew a district income tax used to support school operations. The results remain incomplete, with 18 of 24 precincts reporting.
A separate proposal — the Chillicothe municipal income tax increase — is also failing in early returns. Unofficial totals show 1,601 votes against and 1,494 in favor, with 16 of 22 precincts reporting. The measure would have increased the city’s income tax rate to bolster municipal services.
One of the closest races of the night comes from the Rural Scioto Fire District, where voters are narrowly supporting an additional fire levy. Unofficial totals show the measure passing 326–304, with all five precincts reporting.
Several township fire levy renewals remain too early to call. In Green Township, two renewal levies show early support — 96–51 and 91–56 — though no precincts have officially reported. A Paxton Township fire levy renewal is also leading 23–13, but precincts have not yet reported.
Two local liquor options appear headed for approval. Voters in Chillicothe’s 4‑B precinct supported Sunday sales at the Elks Lodge 59–17, while voters in Paxton Bainbridge approved Sunday sales at American Legion Post 14 by a 10–8 margin.
All results remain unofficial until the county completes its canvass and certifies the vote.