CIRCLEVILLE, OH — Mayor Michelle Blanton presented a proposed 0.5% income tax levy to the Finance Committee on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, aimed at funding critical Fire/EMS services and street improvements, as reported on Sunday, June 1, 2025, at 3:30 PM EDT. The proposal, which allocates 0.4% to Fire/EMS and 0.1% to street infrastructure, seeks to maintain public safety and community quality of life following the expiration of the previous levy on December 31, 2024.
The city’s most recent levy (2020–2024) generated $2,354,901.33 in 2024 but failed to pass in November 2023, March 2024, and November 2024 elections. The new levy aims to address rising emergency call volumes—up from 3,088 in 2019 to 4,853 in 2024—and deteriorating street conditions. The 0.4% for Fire/EMS would fund personnel, apparatus, stations, and training, while the 0.1% for streets would support resurfacing, pothole repairs, and drainage fixes. Without this funding, officials warn of imminent staff cuts, slower response times, and worsening road conditions.
Historical data shows steady income tax revenue growth, with the General Fund (Fund 101) at $3,652,993.48 in 2024, and the Safety Forces Fund (Fund 212) at $2,254,934.22. However, 2025 year-to-date figures as of May 1 reflect a decline, with Fund 101 at $1,244,355.63. Fire/EMS expenses in 2024 totaled $5,481,807.10, with 70% for personnel. Current Fire Department staffing includes 10 Firefighter/EMTs, with two vacancies, 1 Chief, 3 Captains, 3 Lieutenants. 6 FF/EMT’s are supported by a FEMA SAFER grant of $1,565,846.38, set to expire in March 2026.
The Mayor emphasized that the City and the Fire Department have supported the department with many Federal Grants over the years that have saved the City many tax dollars.
The levy ensures no double taxation, offering a 100% credit for Circleville residents working outside the city, a protection upheld since May 2014. Funds will be restricted to their designated uses, with annual public reporting for transparency. The Finance Committee was requested to forward the ordinance to City Council for a June 3 vote, with three readings scheduled. If passed, the levy will be submitted to the Pickaway County Board of Elections for ballot placement by August 5, aiming for implementation on January 1, 2026.
