BELLVILLE — Voters in Bellville and Jefferson Township approved two levy renewals at the polls on Tuesday.
Bellville residents renewed a 3-mill, five-year general operating levy for the village.
There were 602 votes in favor and 547 votes against, according to final, unofficial vote totals from the Richland County Board of Elections.
Funds from the tax constitute approximately 15 percent of the village’s general fund, according to village fiscal officer Amanda Perry.
Village officials told Richland Source it helps cover current operating expenses like staffing, the maintenance and repair of village property and equipment, including parks and mosquito spraying equipment.
It generates about $122,000 in revenue for the village each year.
Because it’s a renewal, the levy will not result in a tax increase for residents.
Collection will continue for five years, beginning in calendar year 2026.
Jefferson Township Bellville Fire Department seeks operating levy renewal
Bellville and Jefferson Township residents also supported the renewal of a 2-mill, five-year property tax that provides operating funds to the Jefferson Township Bellville Fire Department.
The issue passed 1,695 to 1,115, according to final, unofficial vote totals from the Richland County Board of Elections.
The levy passage 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 levy will continue to generate approximately $179,200 for the department each year. Collection will continue in calendar year 2025.
Chief Zac Carlin of the Jefferson Township Bellville Fire Department said it makes up roughly 40 percent of the department’s overall budget.
