PREBLE COUNTY — On Tuesday, Nov. 5, Preble County residents will head to the polls to vote on a wide range of local issues, including property tax renewals, income tax renewals for schools, and options related to liquor sales. According to officials, these measures will impact the funding of essential services like emergency medical services (EMS), fire departments, schools, and cemeteries throughout the county.
Village-specific issues
Several villages are seeking approval for property tax renewals or increases to maintain essential services. In College Corner, voters will decide on a renewal of a 7-mill property tax for five years, beginning in 2025. Gratis and Verona are asking for new property taxes: Gratis is proposing a 3-mill levy for EMS operating expenses, while Verona is seeking a 4-mill additional levy for general village services.
Other villages like Lewisburg, New Paris, and West Alexandria are focusing on renewing property taxes that have previously supported fire departments, current expenses, and other services. In Lewisburg, a proposed resolution will also appear on the ballot regarding the establishment of a marijuana dispensary.
Township levies
Voters in Dixon Township, Gasper Township, and Harrison Township will decide on multiple property tax renewals, many of which fund emergency medical and fire services. Gasper Township, for example, is proposing a 1-mill levy for EMS funding for the next five years.
Meanwhile, Monroe Township has several issues, including a local option for the sale of wine and mixed beverages at the Nickel Saver Food Center, both on weekdays and Sundays.
School district funding
Both the Eaton Community School District and National Trail Local School District have income tax renewals on the ballot. Each district is seeking a 0.75 percent income tax renewal for the next five years, commencing in 2026. These renewals are critical for maintaining school operations and funding educational programs, according to school officials.
Other issues
Library funding is also on the ballot, with the Preble County District Library asking voters to renew property taxes which support its operations.
In addition, multiple precincts will vote on local liquor options, including Sunday sales at specific businesses such as the A.L. Post 0377 in Camden and the Olde Schoolhouse Vineyard & Winery in Eaton.
Reach Eddie Mowen Jr. at 937-683-4061 and follow on X @emowenjr.
