Editor’s note: In advance of the upcoming election, the Sidney Daily News will publish a question each week that will provide readers with information about the levy in support of Sidney City Schools that will be on the ballot. Questions and answers are provided by Sidney City Schools.

What is the Sidney City Schools renewal levy?

On Nov. 6, Sidney City Schools will be asking voters to renew for 10 years the 9.23 mill emergency property tax levy which originally passed in November 2009 and was renewed in May 2014 by 62 percent of voters.

This is not a new or additional tax levy, but a renewal of an existing tax levy.

This renewal levy maintains local funding of $4,417,364 for the general operation of the district. That amount is $133,327 less than the original 9.9 mill emergency property tax levy, which provided $4,550,691. In order to maintain student programs, educational services, instruction and support at current levels, this levy must be renewed.

Through solid financial decisions and actively managing the ever-increasing cost of education, the district has been able to maintain a positive cash balance. The current five-year financial forecast is in the black through fiscal year 2021; however, it is dependent on renewing this levy.

Superintendent Bob Humble will host a public meeting in the Amos Memorial Public Library, Thursday, Oct. 11, at 7 p.m. to answer questions from Sidney residents. For information, visit www.sidneyschoolslevy.org or call Humble at 497-2200.