Mount Vernon City Schools Superintendent Bill Seder recently sat down with WNZR’s Eric Brown to walk through the district’s long-term facilities plan and a proposed 1-percent earned income tax levy expected to appear on the May 2026 ballot.
Click HERE for the full conversation!
According to Seder, the proposal is the result of more than a year of planning, community input, and financial analysis aimed at addressing aging buildings, outdated learning spaces, rising maintenance costs, safety concerns, and limited accommodations for students with special needs.
Seder explained that the district’s master facilities plan includes building three new elementary schools, renovating the high school, and adding a new auditorium to better support growing participation in arts and extracurricular programs. The total estimated cost of the project is $118 million, reflecting current construction prices. About $38 million would come from the Ohio Facilities Construction Commission, with the remaining costs covered locally under strict state guidelines. While renovations were explored, Seder said rebuilding most elementary schools proved more cost-effective under Ohio’s two-thirds funding rule.
The proposed levy would be a 1-percent earned income tax, which Seder said was chosen to create a more balanced and sustainable funding model while protecting residents on fixed incomes. Property tax revenue is capped by state law, making income-based funding a more reliable long-term option. He also noted the district delayed placing the levy on the November ballot due to uncertainty surrounding the state budget and property tax changes, later determining May would provide more clarity.
Acknowledging the emotional and generational ties families have to existing school buildings, Seder emphasized the district’s desire to honor that history. Elements from older schools could be incorporated into new designs, blending tradition with modern learning environments. Plans also call for four elementary schools strategically placed across the city to meet safety, transportation, and site-size requirements.
If approved, the project would follow a multi-year timeline, beginning with design and planning before construction starts. If the levy does not pass, Seder said there would be no immediate cuts since this is a capital project, but the district would continue maintaining current buildings and consider future options. Residents will have multiple opportunities to learn more through district resources, building tours, and a citizen-led levy committee.
Click HERE to visit the Mount Vernon City School District
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