To the Editor:

The Ohio School Boards Association (OSBA) strongly urges Buckeye Local School District residents to vote "yes" for Issue 6 in the primary election on March 6.

Issue 6 is a 10-year, 1% earned income tax for operating expenses. An earned income tax applies only to wage income reported on a federal W-2 form, self-employment income and partnership or sole proprietorship income.

There are many advantages to an earned income tax. A major advantage is that it does not apply to unearned income. That includes retirement income, including Social Security; interest, dividends and capital gains; rental profits; unemployment and workers' compensation; active duty military pay for those serving outside of Ohio; lottery winnings; alimony, trust and estate distributions; and other forms of non-earned income.

The state of Ohio has recognized Buckeye Local schools with an "Excellent" academic distinction for six consecutive years. Passage of Issue 6 will help ensure the school system has the resources it needs to maintain that distinction.

The district has been a strong steward of community tax dollars. Buckeye Local leaders have worked diligently to help the district live within its means. They have made substantial reductions to deal with dwindling resources caused by major cuts in state funding to education and the depressed economy.

But district leaders cannot cut their way out of the current crisis. Buckeye Local has not passed an operating levy since 1994 and faces a projected $3.8 million deficit by June 2013. Without additional revenue, the district risks being placed into fiscal watch or emergency by the state.

Successful schools mean a successful community. By passing Issue 6 and preserving the district's "Excellent" rating, the community will attract productive families and businesses, help increase home values and better prepare children for the jobs of the future.

OSBA strongly urges Buckeye Local residents to support their schools and vote "yes" on Issue 6. Supporting this levy is crucial to your schools and your community. And, remember, the tax applies only to earned income.

Richard Lewis, executive director

Ohio School Boards Association

Columbus