Carlisle Local Schools, which is has been in “fiscal caution” by the state since 2008, has cut $2.5 million from its operating budget the last 4 1/2 years, mainly through staff reductions, according to Superintendent Larry Hook.

“We have cut to the bone. There is no fluff left,” Hook said.

The district is seeking a 4.9-mil, five-year emergency operating levy from voters this year. The levy would generate $812,865 annually and cost the owner of a $100,000 home an additional $150.06 per year.

John Greenfield, who lives in Franklin Twp., said he opposes the levy. He said in 2003, the district passed a 1 percent income tax that replaced the 1998 emergency levy, and so far this year, he has paid more than $1,000 in taxes. He also said despite the taxes, the district still requires school fees and money for supplies.

“Where does it end?” he asked. “Enough is more than enough.”

Greenfield said he and his wife, who have custody of a grandchild, would sell their home if they could to move out of the district and away from the taxes, he said.

In 1998, voters passed a five-year emergency levy that generated $1 million annually. When the levy expired in January 2004, Hook said it was replaced by a 1 percent income tax increase. That generated no additional dollars for the district, he said.

“We have made the hard choices,” Hook said. “It’s time for the community to support the school district. Saying ‘no’ is one thing, but saying ‘no’ when you know what’s going on, is another. We owe it to our kids to make sure they can compete regionally in this state.”

Carlisle Schools has earned an “Excellent” rating from the state for the past two years, a first for the district.