Cincinnati Schools Settle Anti-Tax Group's Lawsuit

The Cincinnati Public Schools have settled an anti-tax group's lawsuit claiming the district violated a 2002 agreement by allowing employees to promote a 2012 tax levy renewal through work email accounts.  The agreement with the Coalition Opposed to Additional Spending and Taxes, or COAST, prohibits use of district property or personnel to support or oppose political candidates or issues.  A district spokesperson denies any violation but thought the settlement preferable to continuing litigation. The district is paying nearly 121 thousand dollars for COAST attorneys' fees.  COAST attorney Christopher Finney says a court order enforcing the settlement allows the district to be found in contempt of court for any future violations.  COAST is required to let the district address any future alleged violations before filing a lawsuit.