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Cincinnati Public Schools will host two town halls on October 13 and October 20 to discuss Issue 4, a proposed five-year, 7-mill property tax levy. The measure could generate an estimated $66.3 million annually and cost approximately $245 per year for every $100,000 in property market value. District officials will explain how the revenue could support school operations and discuss potential budget cuts if voters reject the proposal. Issue 4 will appear on the November 3, 2026, ballot.
Cincinnati Public Schools will host two town halls in October to explain Issue 4, a proposed property tax levy that voters will consider in the November 3, 2026, election.
Superintendent Shauna Murphy and Treasurer Michael Gustin will lead the meetings to discuss the proposed five-year, 7-mill operating levy, its estimated cost to homeowners, and the potential consequences if voters reject the measure.
What are the schedules?
The district scheduled the town halls for October 13 and October 20 to give residents opportunities to learn about the proposed levy and ask questions about its financial implications.
The first meeting will take place from 6 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, October 13, at Dater Montessori School, located at 2840 Boudinot Ave. in Cincinnati.
The second meeting is scheduled for 6 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, October 20, at Walnut Hills High School, located at 3250 Victory Parkway in Cincinnati.
Residents can attend either meeting in person or watch the livestreams through the Cincinnati Public Schools Facebook page.
District officials said the meetings are open to everyone, including residents who do not have children enrolled in CPS schools.
Issue 4 could generate $66.3 million annually
The proposed Issue 4 levy would generate an estimated $66.3 million annually for five years, providing additional local revenue for district operations.
According to CPS, the proposed 7-mill levy would cost approximately $245 annually for a property with a market value of $100,000.
The levy would support the district’s operating budget as CPS addresses financial pressures and plans for future spending. District leaders are expected to explain how the additional revenue would be used during the town halls.
The meetings will also give residents an opportunity to learn more about the district’s financial needs before voting in November.
CPS warns of potential budget cuts if levy fails
Cincinnati Public Schools has warned that rejecting Issue 4 could force the district to consider significant budget reductions in 2027.
Potential measures could include consolidating schools, reducing student transportation services, and introducing pay-to-play fees for athletics.
These changes have been presented as possible consequences of insufficient revenue rather than finalized decisions. The district’s future budget decisions would depend on its financial circumstances and planning process.
The town halls are intended to explain how the levy could affect the district’s finances and what officials may need to consider if voters do not approve the measure.
Residents can learn more before November vote
Issue 4 will appear on the November 3, 2026, ballot, giving voters an opportunity to decide whether to approve the proposed property tax levy.
The October meetings will provide residents with information about the levy, its estimated cost, and the district’s potential budget challenges.
Residents who cannot attend either session in person can check the district’s official website and Facebook page for additional information and livestream access.
CPS encourages community members to participate in the discussions and learn about the proposal before Election Day.
Also read:
Cincinnati Public Schools town halls invite community input on new strategic plan
FAQs
What is Issue 4 in Cincinnati?
Issue 4 is a proposed five-year, 7-mill operating property tax levy for Cincinnati Public Schools. If approved, it is expected to generate approximately $66.3 million annually for the district.
How much would the proposed CPS levy cost homeowners?
CPS estimates that the levy would cost approximately $245 annually for a property with a market value of $100,000. Actual property tax bills may vary depending on the property’s value and applicable tax calculations.
What could happen if voters reject Issue 4?
CPS has warned that it may consider significant budget reductions in 2027 if the levy fails. Potential changes could include school consolidations, reduced student transportation services, and pay-to-play fees for athletics.
Can residents watch the town halls online?
Yes. The district says residents can watch the meetings through livestreams on the Cincinnati Public Schools Facebook page. Residents should check the district’s official channels for livestream details.
