Schmidt has been a fixture at the center for almost 20 years. Before that, her mother was active there.

"It was just something else to do after I retired," Schmidt said. "It gives an older person a place to go."

That's why Schmidt wants voters in this Hamilton County city of 10,100 to support a five-year, half-mill replacement tax levy Nov. 2.

The levy will generate $65,000 a year to cover operational costs of the senior center, Safety Service Director Jerry Thamann said.

"This is something the seniors themselves take a real hands-on approach to," said David Gunn, executive director of North College Hill Community Seniors Inc.

Roughly 15 percent of money for the senior center comes from the levy. Gunn said that if the issue fails, officials could be forced to cut back programs.

The levy will cost the owner of a $100,000 home $14.73 a year - $3.38 more annually than the current levy brings in.

Resident Dorothy Cox hasn't decided how she will vote on the issue.

"I think we're kind of taxed out, but like I said, I haven't given it that much thought," she said. "I'll have to wait and see."

The senior center is available for people 55 and older. It offers recreational programs, wellness education, social activities, nutritional programs, meals and transportation.

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E-mail pschaible@enquirer.com