Bellefontaine City Council during its Tuesday, Dec. 12, regular meeting authorized the Parks District to resubmit its .267% earned income tax levy on the upcoming March primary ballot.
The levy, aimed at funding vital upgrades to public green spaces, narrowly missed approval in November by fewer than 100 votes. Parks board members have said since the levy’s failure that supporters have encouraged them to try again.
The levy would be exclusively dedicated to the parks department, anticipated to generate between $1.2 million and $1.5 million annually, based on historical income tax collection rates. For households with a $50,000 yearly income, the levy would result in an additional cost of $133.50 per year, equivalent to 37 cents per day.
In other council business, an announcement was previously made regarding the return of Crystal Welsh to her role in the Bellefontaine City Prosecutor’s Office. Welsh, who had resigned in May, resumed her responsibilities effective Dec. 11.
On the third and final reading, the council approved temporary appropriations, with General Fund allocations reaching $11.99 million, as outlined in the ordinance. The temporary spending limit for 2024 has been set at $29.26 million.
The council meeting also served as an opportunity to recognize the contributions of three long-term public servants. Retiring Peter DeSomma, the defeated Mick Lile from the November election, and two-term Mayor Ben Stahler were honored for their years of faithful service to the citizens of Bellefontaine.
Council will not meet for a second meeting in December. The next regular city council meeting is 7:30 p.m., Tuesday, Jan. 9.