BELLVILLE — A general operating levy is up for renewal in the Village of Bellville on Nov. 5 when voters will be asked to re-approve a 3-mill, five-year property tax issue.
Funds from the tax constitute approximately 15 percent of the village’s general fund, according to village fiscal officer Amanda Perry.
Perry said the funds help cover current operating expenses, primarily for maintenance and repairs of village property and equipment, including parks and mosquito spraying equipment.
If passed, the levy would continue to generate $122,000 in revenue for the village each year.
Since it’s a renewal, the levy will not result in a tax increase for residents. The levy costs property owners approximately $105 for each $100,000 of the county auditor’s appraised property value.
If renewed, the levy would continue collection for five years, beginning in calendar year 2026.
The village’s operating fund also helps cover the cost of services and salaries for village employees, according to Mayor Teri Brenkus.
“We constantly appreciate all the support that our residents give us,” Brenkus said. “That’s the only reason we’re able to maintain the village in such a nice fashion.”
Jefferson Township Bellville Fire Department seeks operating levy renewal
Residents of Bellville and Jefferson Township will decide whether or not to renew a 2-mill, five-year property tax that provides operating funds to the Jefferson Township Bellville Fire Department department.
Since it’s a renewal, the levy will not result in a tax increase for residents. The levy costs property owners approximately $70 for each $100,000 of the county auditor’s appraised property value.
The official ballot languages states that the funds generated can be used for providing and maintaining fire apparatus, appliances, buildings or sites; sources of water supply and materials, establishment and maintenance of lines of fire alarm telegraph; the payment of permanent, part-time or volunteer firefighters or fire-fighting companies; to purchase ambulance equipment or to provide ambulance or emergency medical services.
If passed, the levy will continue to generate approximately $179,200 for the department each year.
Chief Zac Carlin of the Jefferson Township Bellville Fire Department said it makes up roughly 40 percent of the department’s overall budget.
“This money is used for the fire department’s day-to-day operations,” Carlin said. “If it fails, we will no longer be able to continue (paid) staffing, and the township and residents will then solely rely on six volunteers and area mutual aid, resulting in longer response times.”
According to Carlin, the fire department currently covers 36 square miles and responds to approximately 750 calls per year. The department has about six volunteers and 17 part-time employees.
“Jefferson Township appreciates the continued support from the community,” Carlin said.
