For the first time in the history of Clark County, a developmental disabilities levy failed and that could lead to cuts to services for the area’s disabled population.

Issue 25, the Developmental Disabilities of Clark County property tax levy, failed by a slim margin on Tuesday, according to final, unofficial results.

The new 1.75-mill, eight-year levy would have generated about $4 million, costing the owners of a $100,000 home $61.25 a year. Without the new money, the agency projects a $4.7 million shortfall and will have to make cuts across the board.

“It’s a big disappointment,” said Mayor Warren Copeland, the campaign’s co-chair. “I think it’s an important service in the community.”

Copeland said he believes because the tax was new, and not a renewal, it was going to be hard to sell to the community.

The board, formerly known at Clark County MRDD, had passed every levy it had placed on the ballot since it was created in 1967. The agency was seeking new money after seeing a reduction of about $1.1 million over the last few years. The loss also affected the agency’s ability to seek federal Medicaid dollars.

“Those of us who are supporters were surprised because these levies have always passed,” Copeland said. “It’s a disappointment.”

Since 2003, the disabled population has grown from 850 to 1,100 residents. The organization also supports over 1,000 private sector jobs in Clark County.

In 2009, the organization operated with about $25.7 million, including half of which are local tax dollars. Because of a reduction in state and federal funds, the agency projects it will operate at $21.6 million in 2011.

Through the loss of funds, the agency has had to make changes. It recently downsized its F.F. Mueller Residential Center, shifting dollars for people to live in their homes in the community. It also reduced staffing by 85 positions through retirements.

With Tuesday’s loss, the board will likely head back to the polls in the future, although the narrow margin is encouraging.

“I don’t think they’ve got much choice to come back in some form,” Copeland said. “The question will be what they want to ask for.”