Westerville Officials Debate $50M Income Tax Proposal Amid Deficit Spending Concerns

In a heated discussion during the Westerville City School District's Board of Education Special Meeting on July 21, 2025, concerns over a proposed income tax levy took center stage. As board members prepared to vote on the measure, one vocal community member expressed strong opposition, emphasizing the potential financial strain on local families.

The speaker highlighted a significant concern regarding the district's financial management, particularly the transfer of $50 million for special projects, which they argued should instead be allocated to essential operating expenses. "If you stop the deficit spending, you don't need any more money," they asserted, urging the board to reconsider its approach to budgeting.

The proposed levy, which could increase the average household's tax burden by approximately $8 per month, was described as an undue burden on working-class families and renters alike. With the average home value in Westerville pegged at $354,000 and household incomes averaging $107,000, the speaker warned that the tax hike would disproportionately affect those already struggling to make ends meet.

Moreover, the speaker questioned the rationale behind requesting an increase in funding, noting that despite previous budget cuts, the district was now seeking $24 million—$4 million more than initially proposed. This inconsistency raised eyebrows and prompted calls for greater transparency in the district's financial planning.

As the meeting progressed, it became clear that the community's concerns about fiscal responsibility and the impact of taxation on everyday life were at the forefront of the discussion. The outcome of the vote on the income tax proposal remains to be seen, but the dialogue underscored a growing demand for accountability and careful consideration of the financial implications for Westerville families.