Toledo Voters Approve Schools Levy

Issue 9, a 6.9 mill property tax levy, was approved on the November ballot to address rising costs and state funding cuts.

Updated on Nov. 4, 2026 in Administration

Live Poll

Would you support a property tax increase to fund your local public schools?

Toledo voters approved the Toledo Public Schools levy on the November ballot. The 6.9 mill property tax, designated Issue 9, is expected to generate more than $22 million annually.

Why it matters

The district proposed the levy in response to rising operational costs, inflation, and state funding cuts, and says it is working to close a multi-million budget gap. The funding is tied to the district's Transformation 2.0 plan for Toledo residents.

The levy is a 6.9 mill property tax designated Issue 9 and is projected to raise more than $22 million annually, costing a $100,000 home $242 per year. Results remain unofficial until county election boards certify them.

The players

Toledo Public Schools

The Toledo, Ohio public school district that proposed the levy and is implementing the Transformation 2.0 plan.

Romulus Durant

The superintendent of Toledo Public Schools, who cited rising operational costs, inflation, and state funding cuts as reasons for the levy.

The details

The levy funds current expenses and the Transformation 2.0 plan, which prioritizes the classroom experience and protects student programs. The district is closing multiple schools and reimagining the use of some facilities, while some staff are under a two-year pay freeze.

Earlier in 2026: 13 Action News reported on the Transformation 2.0 plan.
November 4, 2026: Voters approved the levy on Election Day.

Lifestyle Context

Toledo's levy follows a pattern in which Ohio districts facing state funding cuts turn to local property tax levies to cover operating costs. The approval gives the district a dedicated revenue stream as it closes schools and reshapes facilities under its transformation plan.

Toledo homeowners will pay about $242 a year on a $100,000 home under the approved levy. Families should expect school closures and facility changes as the district carries out its Transformation 2.0 plan.

The takeaway

Local property tax levies are a direct lever for voters to shape school funding, and their effects on neighborhood schools and budgets become visible over the coming years.