COITSVILLE TOWNSHIP, Ohio - Higher wages for police officers could be coming to Coitsville, depending on a levy that could be on the ballot come May.

The Coitsville Township Trustees will meet Wednesday evening to discuss putting a levy on the May ballot that could raise wages for police in the Township.

Coitsville Police Chief Michael Morris says the police department needs the levy to be able to pay competitive wages to officers.

According to Township Trustee Phyllis Johnson, the current starting rate for Coitsville police officers is around $13.50.

She says that often times, the police department will hire good people and train them. However, when another offer comes along it is hard to turn down, especially for those with families to take care of.

The township did receive money from the American Rescue plan, however, ARP funds cannot be used toward salaries.

The levy consists of a 5.5 mill increase to Coitsville property taxes. Johnson says the increase will be enough to raise pay to a more competitive number.

If the trustees approve the levy and it passes in May, the money will also go toward cruisers and general operations.