Evergreen voters renew .75 percent income tax

By DAVID J. COEHRS

Enterprise Staff Writer

METAMORA - Voters in the Evergreen Local Schools district gave a green light Tuesday to renew a .75 percent income tax that will ensure current expenses for the next five years.

Known as Issue 11, the renewal passed by a margin of 1,697-1,253 in Fulton County. The district voters in Lucas County voted against the tax by a tally of 443 against and 378 for the tax. Those votes were not enough to sway the vote, and the levy passed.

It will generate approximately $1.2 million annually for educational supplies, electricity, natural gas, diesel fuel, purchased services, salaries and benefits.

Originally passed by voters in March 2004, it will cover a reduction in state funds caused by a depressed economy. It is not a new tax.

Superintendent Ken Jones said he is pleased and grateful for the renewal.

"We're just really thankful the Evergreen community has blessed us with this win," he said. "It's a tribute to the staff at Evergreen, and the students. I see it as a vote of confidence."

The school district has been awarded an "excellent" rating from the Ohio Department of Education the past three years.

An income tax was chosen over a property tax since the latter is assessed only on farmland and real estate owners.

According to figures released by the school district, a resident earning $40,000 in Ohio adjusted income in 2008 paid $300 through the levy.

Jones said voter approval was not taken for granted.

"With the economy, nothing is for certain," he added. "You don't know how the people are thinking. It's the only tax they control."