Ohio County Auditors Push Comprehensive Property Tax Reform

Ohio county auditors are actively advocating for comprehensive property tax reform to address the rising financial burden on homeowners. They propose expanding the Homestead Program, eliminating the non-business credit, expanding the owner-occupancy credit, adjusting school levy calculations, and creating a variety of tax relief options tailored to different homeowners. Despite some steps taken by the legislature, including limited overrides of Governor DeWine's vetoes and empowering local budget commissions, auditors and lawmakers acknowledge that these measures fall short of providing immediate relief. Governor DeWine has convened a task force to produce meaningful recommendations by September, though frustration remains high among both officials and residents, with some voters pushing for a constitutional amendment to abolish property taxes altogether. Franklin County Auditor Michael Stinziano emphasized bipartisan consensus on the need for substantial relief and criticized the state's funding priorities, noting that money was allocated to sports stadiums instead of property tax relief. The issue remains a high priority, with auditors urging citizens to pressure legislators for effective reform.