LEETONIA — With unanimous passage of its final reading Wednesday night, village council is asking for voters’ approval in May of its half percent income tax increase.

At the end of last year, village officials proposed the ballot issue replace a property tax, which funds its police and fire departments.

Around the state, municipalities collect almost $25 billion for their essential local services, such as police, fire and EMS. 

Leetonia collects $140,669.19 annually with the bulk of it ($69,769.34) being directed into its general fund.

If voters endorse the issue, Leetonia officials promise not to collect is property taxes, even if state voters ultimately fail to abolish property taxes.

Passage of the Leetonia income tax would increase to 2 percent on earned income with 83 percent funding police, and 15 percent fire and EMS.

Any remaining funds will be earmarked to the General Fund for municipal operations, capital improvements, facilities, maintenance and economic development.

Collection would begin Jan. 1, 2027, if approved by voters.