Columbus State Community College Delays Decision on Property Tax Levy for Free Tuition
Columbus State Community College (CSCC) has postponed a decision on whether to propose a property tax levy on the November ballot. The levy aims to fund free tuition for new high school graduates in Franklin County. The college's board of trustees met but did not vote on the proposal, which seeks to expand the Columbus Promise program, currently offering free tuition to Columbus City Schools students, to the entire county. CSCC President David Harrison highlighted both the benefits and challenges of the proposal, noting community concerns about increased property taxes. The proposed levy would raise property taxes by approximately $200 for the median homeowner. The board is considering three options: proceeding with the original plan, not placing the measure on the ballot, or modifying the proposal to reduce the tax burden and target low-income residents. A decision is expected early next week, ahead of the August 5 deadline to submit the proposal to the Franklin County Board of Elections.