Cleves Council debates 4 to 4.5 mill safety levy for police and fire services

The Village Council of Cleves, Ohio, is poised to make a significant decision regarding public safety funding after a heated budget hearing on July 9, 2025. Council members debated the merits of a proposed safety levy, with options ranging from 3.5 to 4.5 mills, aimed at supporting police and fire services.

Council discussions highlighted the urgency of addressing rising costs associated with contracts for fire and police services. A 4.5 mill levy was favored by some council members as it would provide sufficient funding to cover these expenses over the levy’s five-year lifespan. This option would generate approximately $375,027 annually, translating to an estimated $158 per year for homeowners with properties valued at $100,000. In contrast, a 4 mill levy would yield $333,357, costing homeowners about $140 annually.

Council members expressed concerns about the community's willingness to support a tax increase, especially following the failure of a previous 6 mill levy. Some argued that a 4.5 mill levy would better ensure financial stability and reduce the need for future subsidies from the general fund, which could otherwise face significant shortfalls.

The discussion also touched on the potential for new revenue sources through Tax Increment Financing (TIF) districts, which could help alleviate some financial pressures. Council members noted that establishing a TIF could provide additional funding for infrastructure improvements without raising taxes.

Residents attending the meeting voiced their apprehensions about the impact of new taxes, particularly in light of ongoing discussions about annexation and potential tax increases from neighboring jurisdictions. Council members reassured residents that the proposed levy would still result in lower overall taxes compared to Miami Township.

As the council prepares to vote on the levy, the outcome will have lasting implications for public safety funding and the financial health of the village. The council is expected to finalize its decision in the coming weeks, with community engagement remaining a priority as they navigate these critical budgetary challenges.