COMMISSIONERS APPROVE SOIL & WATER CONSERVATION LEVY REQUEST
July 28, 2011
7-28-11
For Immediate Release
COMMISSIONERS APPROVE SOIL & WATER CONSERVATION LEVY REQUEST
Licking County Commissioners, at the request of the Licking County Soil & Water Conservation District (LCSWCD) Board, have passed a resolution that will place a 1/10th mill operating levy on the November 8, 2011 ballot.
The LCSWCD Board believes that local soil and water conservation programs and services are essential to maintaining the quality of life of Licking County residents. Every county resident benefits from soil and water programs and services. The benefits of on-going conservation programs include clean water, abundant food and a healthy environment. Future generations also depend on today’s generation to care for soil and water resources.
County and state funding received by LCSWCD was reduced by over 50 percent in 2010 from 2009 levels. Future funding reductions are forecasted due to cuts in the State’s Local Government Fund over the next two years. The LCSWCD Board has already reduced staff, programs and services. Any additional reductions will severely limit Soil & Water Conservation’s ability and capacity to provide programs and services.
The 1/10th mill operating levy would generate approximately $370,000 per year. This amount is less than the $445,000 received from the county and state in 2009. A homeowner with a $100,000 property value assessment will be asked to invest less than a penny per day, or $3.06 per year, to support conservation programs and services.
Questions or comments regarding LCSWCD programs and services should be directed to District Administrator, Jim Kiracofe, 740-670-5332, or jimkiracofe@lickingswcd.com.
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For more information or to schedule an interview, please contact Jim Kiracofe, District Program Administrator, at 740-670-5330, or jimkiracofe@lickingswcd.com
