Ohio Hi-Point Career Center asking voters for levy it says will grow operations

Thomas Tossey, an electronics engineering student from Triad High School, works with Mike Kouse, electronics engineering instructor, to program a robotic arm at Ohio Hi-Point Career Center. STAFF FILE PHOTO

Thomas Tossey, an electronics engineering student from Triad High School, works with Mike Kouse, electronics engineering instructor, to program a robotic arm at Ohio Hi-Point Career Center. STAFF FILE PHOTO

Ohio Hi-Point Career Center will ask voters on Tuesday to approve a tax increase it says it will use to grow the education opportunities at the center.

The school in Bellefontaine serves Champaign County students and is asking voters to say yes to a 0.6-mil permanent improvement levy.

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“The permanent improvement issue is needed to offer enhanced lab-learning classes in fields that have local jobs to be filled, such as healthcare and skilled manufacturing, as well as create new learning spaces so additional training can be offered,” the school said in a statement. “The issue is also needed to make repairs and improvements to prolong the use of the existing building.”

The cost of the levy would be about $22 a year for a home with an assessed market value of $100,000, according to the school.

“We know how important it is ensuring every student has a plan, whether for employment or continuing education,” Superintendent Rick Smith said. “Preparing today’s students for tomorrow’s successes through advanced technical and skills training will continue to help grow our own local economy. This permanent improvement issue will provide funds for renovations on the Bellefontaine Main Campus and increase technology, tools, and equipment within the district’s satellite programs needed for today’s modern-day workforce.”

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It is the first time the school has placed a levy on the ballot in 40 years, according to the school.

“The district is responsible with taxpayer resources and in the district’s day-to-day operations,” the school statement said. “In the last 20 years, the career center has lived within its means while growing by more than 3,500 students.”

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