COLUMBUS, Ohio-Voters in Westerville rejected a 4.9 mill levy and 1.66 mill bond issue intended to fund school facility construction, renovations, and additions. The district had delayed this ballot request from 2023, citing expiring federal funds, cuts in state funding, and rising costs. The proposal was narrowly defeated, with 52.18% voting “no.” In response, the district announced that without additional resources, it would need to revisit community input, delay facility projects, and address a $20.8 million operating revenue shortfall. A district spokesperson emphasized the importance of the levy for maintaining current programs and improving security and facilities, assuring the community that a careful review of available funding and priorities would follow.
