CHILLICOTHE, Ohio – Voters in Ross County delivered a split verdict on tax measures during Tuesday’s general election, rejecting proposed increases for education and senior services while approving renewals for local township operations. With 65 of 65 precincts reporting in unofficial tallies from the Ross County Board of Elections, the outcomes reflect community priorities amid ongoing debates over funding public services. Overall voter turnout was 33.52%, with absentee ballots playing a significant role in the levy races.
The countywide renewal for the Ross County Senior Citizens Services levy failed to garner enough support, falling short in a close contest. The measure, aimed at continuing funding for senior programs, received 6,884 yes votes (46.65%) against 7,872 no votes (53.35%). Proponents had highlighted the levy’s role in supporting meals, transportation, and activities for older residents, but opposition centered on property tax fatigue. This rejection could strain local senior services unless alternative funding is secured.
In Chillicothe, an additional tax levy for the Chillicothe City School District also met defeat, with voters opting against the increase by a margin of 2,690 no votes (55.48%) to 2,159 yes votes (44.52%). The proposal sought extra resources for school operations, maintenance, and student programs in the city’s 24 precincts. District officials expressed disappointment Tuesday night, noting the levy would have addressed rising costs without impacting core budgets, but critics argued it burdened homeowners already facing economic pressures. The failure leaves the district to explore cuts or state aid boosts, but said they leave the door open to place the measure back on the next telection ballot.
Bright spots emerged in smaller locales, particularly Deerfield Township, where two renewal levies passed handily. The 1.5-mill renewal, focused on general township expenses like road maintenance and public safety, won approval with 129 yes votes (70.49%) over 54 no votes (29.51%). Similarly, the 2-mill renewal for fire and emergency services secured 122 yes votes (66.67%) against 61 no votes (33.33%). These successes in the township’s single precinct show strong rural support for sustaining essential local infrastructure without new tax hikes.
No other tax levies appeared on ballots across the county’s villages, townships, or school districts in this cycle, though several board of education races ran concurrently. The results, which include Election Day and absentee tallies but no provisionals, are preliminary and subject to certification. Officials anticipate finalization within two weeks, with potential recounts in tighter margins.