Dear Editor:

I have been a Board member for the Clermont County Board of Developmental Disabilities for two years and am currently its Board President.

My two years on the Board have really opened my eyes to the tremendous work that goes into supporting individuals with Developmental Disabilities to live and work as independently as they can here in Clermont County. It also makes me proud to live in a community like Clermont County, where its citizens recognize the gifts and talents of those with Disabilities, but also are willing to support them when they need it.

In this upcoming Primary Election on March 15, 2016, the Clermont County Board of Developmental Disabilities is asking voters to approve Replacement of two of its continuing levies that were originally passed in 1979 and 1980.

With approval, these two levies would become one moving forward. The revenue generated from replacing these levies would not only maintain the much needed services we see throughout our county, but would help to responsibly address ever growing waiting lists. This levy will cost the owner of a $100,000 home an additional $35 per year—or about $3 per month.

During my time on the Board, I have seen and heard stories of certainly the successes: the young child getting the therapy needed; the teenager getting the job training necessary to get a job; the older adult with significant physical disabilities that is receiving the care needed to live in a residential home here in our community. But I also have had to be part of difficult conversations, where challenges remain because of a lack of resources to adequately address the needs.

On March 15, 2016, please do your part for the individuals with Developmental Disabilities and their families in Clermont County by voting FOR Issue 5–the Clermont County Board of DD Replacement Levy.

Rex Parsons
Clermont DD Board President