West Liberty voters in Tuesday’s primary election turned down a proposed 1.15-mill village Parks and Recreation Levy that would have raised funds for several parks in the village, along with the Simon Kenton Bike Trail, and would have created a village parks board.
Voters cast 216 votes against the levy, representing 55.1 percent of the total vote, and 175 votes in favor of the measure that would have generated approximately $30,000 per year, according to unofficial election results.
The West Liberty Ball Association, which backed the levy, said in a statement posted via Facebook that members were thankful for the support, but also understood financial restraints in light of the “unprecedented times” revolving around the current health crisis.
“To everyone who supported the West Liberty Parks & Rec Levy and voted ‘yes’ we want to say, ‘Thank you!’
“For years, the West Liberty Ball Association had a vision to light our fields at Dodge Park and we remain committed to that vision. It was refreshing to hear, see and feel the support for this project. The WLBA appreciates all of the feedback, encouragement and even criticism it has received.
“While we are disappointed with the outcome, we are completely sensitive and understanding to the voice of the residents of West Liberty. Regardless of your stance, thank you for casting your vote and letting your voice be heard.”
If approved by voters, the levy proceeds would have been split among Lions Park, Dodge Park, Veterans Park and the bike trail.
The West Liberty Ball Association maintains Dodge Park, and members previously cited rising costs for maintenance and the need for bigger projects at the facility has made it difficult for the non-profit organization to budget.
In an online town hall forum for the levy during February, ball association members related that the first project they wanted to tackle with the proposed levy funds would be the installation of lights on all three of the Dodge Park fields. Currently, Dodge Park is one of the few parks in the area that does not have lights.
Despite the failure of the levy, the association said they are moving forward with a vision to continue serving local young athletes and future developments will be forthcoming.
“When we are able, we will regroup and get creative. And we will bounce back even stronger to provide the best services and facilities for our youth ball players,” members said.
Also in Tuesday’s primary election, Rushsylvania voters turned down two 3-mill, five-year replacement levies for the purpose of funding current village expenses. For the first replacement levy, 41 “no” votes were cast and 40 “yes” votes were cast, and the second levy received 44 “no” votes and 36 “yes” votes, according to unofficial election totals.
Candidates receiving complimentary votes in uncontested races Tuesday also included:
Common Pleas Court Judge: Kevin P. Braig, 4,291.
Common Pleas Court Judge: Kim Kellogg-Martin, 4,387.
County Commissioner: Mark Robinson, 4,073.
County Commissioner: Joseph M. Antram, 4,184.
Prosecuting Attorney: Eric C. Stewart, 4,268.
Common Pleas Court Clerk: Barb McDonald, 4,362.
County Recorder: Pat Myers, 4,380.
County Treasurer: Rhonda Stafford, 4,428.
County Engineer: Scott Coleman, 4,344.