The CPS Levy: What’s at Stake

October town halls will address the need for funding, the cost to property owners and what happens if the levy fails

Why does Cincinnati Public Schools need a levy after balancing this year’s budget? What would the funding support? What would it cost property owners? And what would happen to schools and students if it fails?

Superintendent Shauna Murphy and Treasurer Michael Gustin will address these questions at two community town halls in October and take questions from residents about the proposed five-year, 7-mill operating levy on the November 3 ballot.

CPS closed a projected $58 million budget gap through staffing and spending reductions, furlough days, reorganized services and limited use of one-time funds. Those steps balanced the current year’s budget, but they did not resolve the district’s longer-term funding needs.

The town halls will explain the district’s financial outlook, what the proposed levy would fund and the additional reductions CPS would have to consider without that revenue. If approved, the levy is estimated to generate approximately $66.3 million annually for five years.

Both town halls will run from 6–7 p.m.:

· Tuesday, October 13 — Dater Montessori School
2840 Boudinot Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45238

· Tuesday, October 20 — Walnut Hills High School
3250 Victory Parkway, Cincinnati, OH 45207

Both meetings are open to all community members, including residents without children in CPS schools. Attend whichever location works best for you and bring your questions.

If you cannot attend in person, both town halls will be held virtually.

Watch the Levy Town Halls Here

For levy details, estimated costs for homeowners and frequently asked questions, visit the CPS Property-Tax Levy Information page.