Officials with Marion County Children Services say opponents of the children services levy are distributing incorrect information on cars and doorsteps across the county.
Officials have release the following information to clear up what they call misleading and false statements:
1) The Rainy Day Fund or carry over was accumulated over the last decade. Opponents stated we accumulated this in one year.
2) Children Services will not accumulate any rainy day funds this year or any year during the levy period. Opponents stated we will accumulate an additional 5 million dollars in 2009.
3) State and federal funds were cut in 2008 over $300,000. Opponents stated we received the same funds.
4) Children Services completed over 600 investigations that involved 900 children with 75 children in foster care with 1700 children in Marion County served in their homes and schools in 2008. Opponents stated we have 41 children in foster care and almost one staff person per child.
Officials are reminding voters that the levy on the ballot is a renewal with a reduction for a five year period. It offers a 13% decrease in property tax for the levy collection. Because of state funding rules, there are one million dollars of state funds already allocated to Marion County children that will be lost if this levy does not pass. The reduced levy will cost the average homeowner $2.75 a month.
The Marion County Auditor will answer any financial questions about the Marion County Children Services Levy. Any additional information can be answered by calling 389-2317. Marion County Children Services is located at 1680 Marion Waldo Road.
