M. Hensen: “Simple (but not easy)” – Pt. 5

Why so much more than last year?

April 7, 2026
From Mark Hensen,
Pickerington Board of Education Member

This represents my views and does not reflect those of the PLSD Board of Education (BOE) or my colleagues. I’m speaking for myself, NOT the board.

The PLSD levy issue on the ballot on May 5th is fairly simple to understand (once explained), but it is not necessarily easy to accept or do. This is a five-part series of letters to the editor – the first two parts address “simple” and the last three parts reflect “but not easy”.

But Not Easy – Part 5: Why so much more than last year?

Why did 9.21mils ($19.5M) last year turn into 1.25% ($32.8M) this year?

Passing a levy in November 2025 would have meant more revenue in 2026
Passing a levy in 2026 means NO levy revenue until 2027
This lost revenue is a major factor as deficits persist and the cash balance continues to shrink
Also, $3.62M in increased Special Education staffing since October (from Fiscal Year 26-30 overall)
And, $5.1M less state revenue in FY26/27 from property tax reform legislation
Need to maintain a 45-day cash balance in FY30
Income tax can only be done in .25% increments – provides some additional revenue
Income tax revenue “ramp-up” is slower than the property tax revenue

Finally, someone recently asked me how I respond directly to those who truly can’t afford it. I sincerely empathize with folks in that situation and say I really wish we weren’t in this position. I really don’t want anyone to have to make significant life changes as a result of the levy. That is why the district is seeking the smallest levy possible, and if the majority votes “no”, we will implement the previously proposed reductions.

Ultimately, the question is whether we want the district to move backwards or not.

Other Entries in “Simple (but not easy)“