DELAWARE — Voters will see a 1.8 mill, five-year levy for the Delaware County Board of Developmental Disabilities on the general election ballot in November.
Delaware County Commissioners approved a resolution of necessity for the additional tax on Monday. Commissioner Gary Merrell was absent.
“Without this money, we will not be able to continue serving people, we will begin having to make severe cuts to our programs and our services to people,” DCBDD Superintendent Kristine Hodge told commissioners.
“We serve through early intervention, through case management and through family support services,”
Previous levy failed
The levy comes after voters narrowly rejected a renewal and increase levy of 2.7 mills for five years in the primary election.
Its passage came down to 575 votes, making the votes against the levy at 50.72%.
The levy would have generated about $27.1 million annually and provided increased funding for programs, services and facility needs for the DCBDD.
That existing levy expired at the end of 2025, meaning the last tax collections are this year.
The DCBDD provides services to more than 2,300 residents, including children, adults and families.
Levy dollars also fund the county’s required local match for Medicaid waiver programs — the primary source of funding for long-term services. Those supports can include assistance with daily living, employment, transportation and home modifications.
In 2015, that match was $4 million; in 2026, it’s $18 million.
“We believe that these services are vital to people with developmental disabilities and their families in Delaware County,” Hodges said.
Commissioner Barb Lewis agreed.
“You provide excellent services, vital services to families and I definitely support your request,” Lewis said.
The levy would bring in roughly $18.1 million each year.
For a home with a market value of $100,000, this equates to $63 per year.
“It is asking for additional dollars from our community, and that’s always a challenge,” Commissioner Jeff Benton said.
“The May 5 levy was very close… I think people understand the value and the importance of the services you provide.”
