Lucas County commissioners put 0.8‑mill 9‑1‑1 levy and 0.9‑mill zoo levy on ballot

On Jan. 13, 2026, the Lucas County Board of Commissioners voted unanimously to declare necessary two tax levies and to ask the county auditor for certification so both measures can appear on the ballot.

Mark Wilson, a member of the Lucas County Levy Review Committee, told the board the committee met Jan. 7 and “voted unanimously to support the zoo's request for a 0.9 mil levy” to be used for operational or capital expenses over 10 years, adding that the zoo’s request represented “an overall reduction in taxpayer dollars.” The committee also recommended support up to a 0.8‑mill request for countywide public‑safety communications to avoid underfunding critical infrastructure.

Commissioner Gerken argued the 0.7‑mill technical request from the sheriff and the technical committee would not generate sufficient revenue to fund modern 9‑1‑1 radios, towers and other infrastructure. “I don't believe it's good public policy to underfund that and come back later,” Gerken said, urging the board to ask for 0.8 mill to fully fund the system and build a modest reserve.

Commissioner Lopez echoed that view, saying the county should “go for what is enough for our community” to maintain the quality of service and to account for inflation in future bids and repairs.

Administratively, the item was introduced as two separate resolutions invoking Ohio Revised Code sections 5705.03 and 5705.19 to request auditor certifications. President Cebecchi moved approval of both resolutions; the clerk called the roll and the board recorded unanimous yes votes.

What happens next: the county auditor will certify the anticipated revenue and rate; if certified, the measures will be placed on the ballot for voter consideration. The board did not set campaign dates or implementation language in this meeting.