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Delaware County disability-services levy returns to voters after narrow May defeat
A November levy would renew funding for the county developmental disabilities board, which serves more than 2,300 people and families. The board says early-intervention services and other supports could be cut if voters reject it.
DELAWARE, Ohio — Families who rely on Delaware County’s developmental disabilities services are urging voters to approve a replacement levy in November, after a similar measure fell short by 1.44% in May.
The levy would renew the five-year funding measure that expires at the end of this year. It would cost property owners $63 for every $100,000 of property value, according to the Delaware County Board of Developmental Disabilities.
The board serves more than 2,300 people and their families. Its support has helped the Diaz family care for Lauren Diaz, 21, who has a severe brain abnormality diagnosed when she was six months old. She uses a ramp to get in and out of the family’s vehicle and relies on other equipment at home. The family has received board services for 12 years.
“Without the support and services they provide, it would be very difficult, if not impossible, to care for Lauren in our home,” her mother, Lorrie Diaz, said.
After the May vote, the family began spending more time talking with voters about the services the board provides. Diaz said some families may have difficulty bringing relatives with disabilities into the community, making it harder for other residents to see the need for those supports.
The board’s president said early-intervention programs and other services would face cuts if the levy fails. He said many people need ongoing help to manage daily life and cannot live independently without it.
Diaz acknowledged the tax would affect household budgets but said the services are essential to a significant portion of the community. The board said it had not previously seen one of its levies fail and is increasing voter outreach ahead of the November election.