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Cincinnati Public Schools leaders held a town hall on October 13 to discuss the proposed Issue 4 property tax levy ahead of the November 3, 2026, election. The five-year, 7-mill operating levy is expected to generate approximately $66.3 million annually if approved. CPS estimates the measure would cost property owners approximately $245 annually for every $100,000 in market value. District officials have warned that rejecting the proposal could lead to additional budget reductions.
Cincinnati Public Schools (CPS) leaders met with residents Tuesday, October 13, to discuss a proposed property tax levy that will appear on the November 3, 2026, ballot.
The town hall gave community members an opportunity to learn about the district’s financial challenges, the proposed funding measure and its potential impact on local taxpayers.
The meeting took place at Dater Montessori School as district leaders explained why CPS is seeking additional operating revenue. The proposed Issue 4 levy would generate approximately $66.3 million annually for five years if voters approve it, according to the district.
The proposal comes as CPS faces ongoing budget pressures and considers how to maintain educational services while managing rising operating costs.
What Cincinnati voters need to know about Issue 4
Cincinnati Public Schools is asking voters to approve a five-year, 7-mill operating levy during the November 3 general election.
According to the district, the measure would provide additional funding for day-to-day school operations. These expenses include staffing, transportation, utilities, instructional materials and student support services.
CPS estimates the levy would generate approximately $66.3 million annually over five years. District officials say the additional revenue would help address financial pressures and support school operations.
The proposal would increase property taxes for eligible property owners within the school district. Voters will decide whether to approve the measure on Election Day.
How much would the proposed CPS levy cost homeowners?
The proposed levy would add an estimated $245 annually in property taxes for every $100,000 in a property’s market value, according to CPS.
Under that estimate, a home valued at $200,000 would incur approximately $490 annually in additional taxes. A home valued at $300,000 would incur approximately $735 annually.
These figures represent estimated costs associated with the proposed levy, not a homeowner’s total property tax bill. Actual tax obligations depend on the property’s assessed tax characteristics and applicable tax calculations.
The estimated cost is an important consideration for residents evaluating the proposal ahead of the November election.
Why Cincinnati Public Schools is seeking additional funding
CPS has faced financial challenges as operating expenses increase and the district works to balance its budget.
Expenses such as employee compensation, transportation, utilities, insurance, technology and specialized student services contribute to the district’s financial needs.
District officials have also outlined previous budget reductions intended to address projected shortfalls. However, those measures have not eliminated the district’s longer-term financial concerns.
The proposed levy would provide additional operating revenue if approved. District leaders have warned that rejecting the measure could require further reductions in spending and services.
What could happen if voters reject the levy?
CPS officials have warned that the district could face additional budget cuts if voters do not approve the proposed levy.
Potential consequences discussed in connection with the district’s financial challenges include school closures or consolidations, staffing reductions, changes to transportation eligibility and cuts to extracurricular programs.
These outcomes should not be treated as finalized decisions. The specific measures the district might pursue would depend on its financial circumstances and subsequent budget decisions.
For families, the debate raises questions about how CPS would maintain educational services while managing its available resources.
For taxpayers, the proposal presents a decision about the cost of additional school funding and the district’s stated need for operating revenue.
CPS schedules additional town hall meeting
Cincinnati Public Schools has scheduled another town hall for Tuesday, October 20, from 6 to 7 p.m. at Walnut Hills High School, located at 3250 Victory Parkway in Cincinnati.
The meeting provides another opportunity for residents to learn about the proposed levy and the district’s financial outlook before Election Day.
Residents can consult the district’s official website for updated information about Issue 4, public meetings and the proposed tax measure.
The levy will appear on the November 3, 2026, ballot, when voters will determine whether Cincinnati Public Schools receives the additional operating revenue.
Also read:
Cincinnati Public Schools to hold two town halls on Issue 4 property tax levy
FAQs
What happens if Cincinnati voters reject the proposed levy?
CPS officials have warned that rejecting the levy could lead to further budget reductions. Potential consequences could include staffing cuts, school consolidations, transportation changes and reductions to extracurricular programs, although specific actions have not necessarily been finalized.
Why does Cincinnati Public Schools need additional funding?
The district cites operating expenses such as staffing, transportation, utilities, insurance, technology and student support services as financial pressures. The proposed levy would provide additional revenue to help fund school operations if voters approve it.
What is the proposed Cincinnati Public Schools property tax levy?
The proposed Issue 4 measure is a five-year, 7-mill operating levy for Cincinnati Public Schools. If approved, it would generate approximately $66.3 million annually to help fund school operations.
