Cincinnati School Tax Levy to Appear on November Ballot
Homeowners could see an annual tax increase of $245 per $100,000 of home value if the five-year levy passes this November.
Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Administration
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Would you support a local property tax increase to fund public school programs in your area?
The Cincinnati Board of Education has placed a 7-mill operating levy on the November 2026 ballot to address rising costs. The five-year levy aims to preserve existing educational programs for the more than 34,000 students across the district.
Why it matters
This tax proposal is intended to bridge a funding gap and ensure the long-term stability of district offerings, including the current Montessori program. Voters are being asked to determine if these increased property tax costs are necessary to maintain school services.
The levy is projected to generate $66.3 million annually. It will cost homeowners an estimated $245 per $100,000 of home market value each year, which translates to $122.50 per half-year tax bill.
The players
Cincinnati Board of Education
The local governing body responsible for overseeing the school district and managing administrative policy.
Cincinnati Public Schools
A local education provider serving over 34,000 students and managing a diverse range of educational offerings.
The details
The Cincinnati Board of Education is seeking this 7-mill increase to cover escalating district expenses while protecting instructional programs. District officials have scheduled town hall meetings to provide further information on how the tax revenue will be allocated across the school system. Property owners can expect the tax impact to be calculated based on their home's specific market value as determined by local assessments.
Timeline
• November 2026: Election for the proposed school district tax levy
The Home Front
This ballot initiative highlights the continued pressure on local property tax bills as school districts face rising operational expenses. It follows a national trend of districts seeking voter-approved funding to maintain existing academic programming.
Homeowners should check their most recent property tax assessment to estimate the specific impact of a 7-mill increase on their annual tax bill. Consider attending upcoming district-hosted town halls to hear how this levy will influence future school resources.
The takeaway
Voters should weigh the cost of this five-year levy against the district's stated need to sustain current educational programs. Residents can prepare by reviewing their current property value records and verifying their registration status ahead of the November 2026 election.
Further reading
Learn more about local school district operations on the Cincinnati Administration page.
Live Poll
Would you support a local property tax increase to fund public school programs in your area?
