ASHLAND — Two income tax levy renewals that generate revenue for police, fire and city streets will head to the ballot in November.
The quarter-percent levies, first approved by voters in 2016 and again in 2020, now must be filed with the Ashland County Board of Elections by the Aug. 6 deadline.
Streets levy
Ashland Mayor Matt Miller said the streets levy has led to the repaving of 146 of 220 lane miles since its passage. That means around 220 streets have been resurfaced of the city’s 315, he said.
The levy, which expires in 2026, will last another five years if voters approve. It is expected to generate $2.3 million in 2026.
But even when the levy expires, the need will still be there.
“So it’s kinda a never-ending saga … It’s very, very important to our city — there’s no doubt,” Miller said.
Sarver Paving is slated to begin resurfacing up to 75 streets for $2.1 million this month. The company is contracted to finish the project by Sept. 12.
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Officials estimate new streets can last anywhere between 12 and 15 years, but it depends on weather patterns and the street’s location.
The city has used a chemical for the last four or five years on streets to extend their life.
Police and fire levy
Miller said the police and fire levy, also a renewal, has largely funded the city’s agencies.
Both are fully staffed now, he said. Both staffs have increased since voters approved the measure in 2016. The fire division has 41 firefighters and paramedics. The police division has 36 police.
The levy is used for buying equipment and paying salaries and wages.
The levy is expected to generate the same amount as the streets levy, but the total amount will be divvied in half. So each agency will receive around $1.2 million.