Belmont County approves $4.05 million levy to support child services funding

Martins Ferry City Council has taken a significant step towards providing tax relief for residents while ensuring continued support for essential services. During the recent meeting on March 24, 2025, council members discussed a proposal to reduce the current $6.05 mill levy to $4.05 mill. This change is expected to generate approximately $150,000 less than the combined total of the two levies currently in place, but it aims to ease the financial burden on taxpayers.

If the proposed 0.45 mill levy passes on the ballot scheduled for November 5, residents could see their monthly tax payments decrease from about $2.40 to approximately $0.65. This reduction is framed as a small but meaningful relief for taxpayers, allowing them to retain more of their income while still funding critical services for children, particularly those who are abused or neglected.

The council emphasized the importance of these funds, which not only support local services but also leverage federal reimbursements. The funding is crucial for Belmont County, as it brings in an estimated $3 million in federal matches to assist in caring for vulnerable children. This financial support is vital, given the ongoing challenges faced by families and children in the community.

In addition to the tax levy discussions, the council addressed ongoing waste management efforts, including the remediation of landfill waste to facilitate transportation to other states. The meeting also highlighted the collaborative work of the city’s code administration team, which is focused on maintaining community standards and progress.

Overall, the decisions made during this meeting reflect the council's commitment to balancing fiscal responsibility with the needs of the community, ensuring that essential services remain funded while providing relief to taxpayers. As the council moves forward, residents can anticipate further developments regarding the proposed levy and its implications for the community.