Findlay City Schools Levy Passes

Findlay City Schools had a 1 percent earned income tax levy on the May 6 ballot, the same measure that voters turned down last November.

Unofficial results from the Hancock County Board of Elections show the levy passed by a vote of 66.77 percent for to 33.23 percent against.

Ahead of the primary, the school district said if the new 1 percent earned income tax levy passes in May, it would stabilize the district’s financial future, ensuring continued support for academic programs, staffing, and student services.

The Findlay City Schools Board of Education had said a second phase of budget reductions would be necessary should the May 6 levy not pass.

The reductions would have been in addition to the $6 million in reductions approved for the 2025-2026 school year following the unsuccessful levy in November 2024.

Get more election results from the Hancock County Board of Elections by clicking here, the Putnam County Board of Elections by clicking here, and the Ohio Secretary of State’s Office by clicking here.

All results are unofficial until certified by the board of elections. 

Findlay City Schools issued the following news release about passage of the levy:

On May 6, voters in Findlay approved a 1% earned income tax levy, providing a critical

and sustainable funding source for Findlay City Schools. This levy is the first voter-approved increase

in operating revenue from the community since 2004 and marks a pivotal moment in securing the

district’s future.

“This is a hopeful and transformative day for our students, staff, and families,” said Dr. Andy Hatton,

Superintendent. “From the bottom of our hearts, thank you. This successful levy passage is a testament

to the belief our community holds in the power of education. This victory belongs to everyone who

envisioned a sustainable future for our schools and worked tirelessly to make it a reality. We are truly

humbled by your support.”

The district must still move forward with the $6 million in reductions already approved for the

2025–2026 school year. These reductions are necessary after the failure of the November 2024 levy.

However, the passage of this new measure prevents an additional $4 million in projected cuts for

2026–2027 and brings much-needed financial stability.

“The passage tonight reflects our community’s commitment to our students, teachers, and staff in

Findlay. To say that I am extremely proud would be an understatement,” said Matt Cooper, President

of the Findlay City Schools Board of Education. “Now we must forge a path forward to reach the high

expectations of our community by being the best school district in Ohio while continuing to be fiscally

responsible. As a district we must set a higher standard and focus on a well-rounded education with

first class academic expectations, experiences, and opportunities for our students that will broaden

their knowledge and abilities.”

Findlay City Schools sincerely thanks the community for its trust and support. The district remains

committed to transparency, accountability, and excellence in education. More information about the

levy and district finances can be found at www.fcs.org.