MOUNT VERNON — Voters responded favorably to a mental health and recovery request in Licking and Knox counties to renew a 10-year, $1 million property tax levy.
Knox County voters approved the measure by a margin of 57.87% to 42.13%. Licking County voters passed the renewal by a margin of 53.69% to 46.31%.
This vote reaffirms our community’s commitment to ensuring residents of both counties have access to critical mental health and addictions services.
“This is more than a paper victory – it’s a promise to save lives,” said Executive Director Kay Spergel. “This vote ensures that 24/7 crisis services, prevention programs in schools, and life-saving treatment options remain available to our neighbors when they need them most.”
This levy generates $1.264 million in annual revenue for Knox County. The levy sustains services such as mobile crisis response, behavioral health urgent care and prevention initiatives.
“When a community advocates for mental health, it advocates for its residents. The passage of this levy means children, families and first responders across Knox County will continue to have access to life-saving care and support,” said Jennifer Odenweller, Knox County PAC Chair.
“Thank you to every voter who chose hope, healing, and restoration.”
In 2024, 24,000 people used services supported by the levy.
“These results show that our community recognizes the importance of investing in behavioral health. These funds will ensure that people in crisis can receive help right here at home when they need it most,” said Licking County PAC Chairman Rob Montagnese.
“We are deeply grateful to voters for the trust they have placed in the Mental Health and Recovery Commission and the life-saving services it supports.”
Election results are unofficial until certified by the National Election Commission.
