Editor, News-Register:

To all Belmont County Residents,

On behalf of the Belmont County Department of Job and Family Services, we would like to extend our deepest gratitude for your recent support of the 0.45 mill replacement with a reduction children services levy passage in the November 5, 2024, general election.

The passage of this levy will allow a reduction in the property taxes paid to support the operations of children services by reducing the millage from 0.65 to 0.45 and by allowing the retirement of our 0.35 mill levy when it expires on December 31, 2025. It is an extremely rare occurrence when a government entity can ask voters to support a reduction in taxes paid to support essential government operations but with the support of Governor DeWine and the Ohio General Assembly over the last six years, this was made possible.

The revenue generated from this levy will be used for the support, care, and placement of abused and neglected children in Belmont County. It will also allow the agency to draw down additional federal match dollars through various federal funding programs for foster and adoptive children. Unfortunately, child abuse and neglect occur, and it is the responsibility of the staff at Job and Family Services to investigate and work through the issues to do all possible to keep the family intact. It is a very demanding and stressful job, and our staff is some of the most experienced in the state and do their work with great empathy and the needs of the children as their priority.

Belmont County’s support of children services levies has always been very positive, but nothing is taken for granted. With over 58% of the voters supporting this replacement, we know that you place a great trust in our agency. We thank the voters for your support in what we do to protect the children of this county and look forward to your continued support in future campaigns.

Our wishes for a wonderful holiday season are extended to all of you.

DJFS Officials

Jeff Felton, Director

Christine Parker,

Social Services Administrator

Jack Regis, Jr.,

Fiscal Administrator