Politics
Cincinnati Community Services Levy Referendum on November Ballot
The measure would authorize a 0.25 percent increase in the local sales tax to support expanded social services for Cincinnati residents.
How we reported this
Cincinnati voters will decide on a ballot measure in November that proposes raising the local sales tax by 0.25 percent to generate dedicated revenue for community services programs. The referendum, placed on the ballot by City Council in June, targets funding for mental health outreach, youth employment initiatives and food assistance distribution across city neighborhoods. City budget documents estimate the change would produce roughly 12 million dollars in annual revenue if approved.
The measure arrives as local agencies report sustained demand for social services following the end of certain federal pandemic-era supports. Hamilton County data from 2025 showed more than 18,000 households accessing emergency food programs operated by city-contracted nonprofits. Policy analysts note that current general fund allocations for these services have remained flat since 2023 despite population growth in areas such as Price Hill and Avondale.
Effects on Local Households and Programs
For Cincinnati residents, passage would direct new tax collections toward contracts with organizations that provide after-school care and senior transportation services. A family of four earning median household income would pay an estimated additional 75 dollars per year under the tax adjustment, according to calculations released by the city finance department. The funds would also support expanded hours at five existing community centers located in the East End, Westwood and Bond Hill.
City records indicate that current community services spending totals 47 million dollars annually from combined local and state sources. The proposed levy would supplement rather than replace those amounts, with 60 percent of new revenue earmarked for direct client services and the remainder for administrative costs and facility maintenance.
Next Steps for Implementation
If approved by voters, the tax increase would take effect on January 1, 2027, with the first collections remitted to the city by April. The legislation requires annual public reporting on expenditures and a five-year sunset review by City Council. Residents can review the full text of the referendum and the accompanying budget projections on the Hamilton County Board of Elections website.