Orange City Recreation seeks renewal of 0.95‑mill levy; community information meeting set

Officials from Orange City Recreation (OCER) briefed the board March 17 about an upcoming ballot measure: a renewal of a 0.95‑mill levy on May 6 that the department says provides about 20% of its operating budget.

The presenter said the levy, first approved in 1975, has been at 0.95 mills since 1995 and that the vote on May 6 is a renewal rather than a tax increase. "The levy provides approximately 20% of our department's operating budget," the presenter said, and noted that when residents see "Orange City School District" language on the ballot they should read the explanatory text that the funds will be used by OCER, not to support k‑12 classroom expenses.

OCER staff said they will run a community outreach program that includes yard signs, a mailer to district residents in late March, social media, and a recorded presentation for the website. A community information night is scheduled for Thursday at 6 p.m. in the district boardroom (entry via the preschool doors). Staff said the department will request time on local village/city council agendas to explain the levy and will track endorsements and public feedback.

The presenter emphasized conservative budget management and said OCER’s revenue mix includes participant fees, grants and donations. During Q&A board members praised the outreach plan and staff organization and confirmed materials and signage will be distributed to district residents.

Ending OCER representatives said they will continue outreach and return with campaign materials and results from community events as the May 6 election approaches.