A new proposal from Ohio Gov. John Kasich and Republican legislators, pitched as pro-business, is considered by some to be a major blow to local government.
One of Kasich’s employees reinforced his stance on municipality taxes in a statement about an upcoming vote on Ohio House Bill 5. The employee said with the current level of state aid being provided, municipalities should be able to cover their current expenses, Athens Auditor Kathy Hecht said.
The proposed bill would unify the taxes of all the municipalities in Ohio and would remove tax revenues municipalities collect from businesses that Kasich’s administration believes would prevent business from investing and locating in Ohio.
Hecht sees the bill creating a future of financial struggles for municipalities like Athens that have had difficulty with funding due to past cuts from the state by Kasich’s administration.
“I don’t disagree with trying to get businesses to come to Ohio,” Hecht said, “There are already things in place making businesses come to Ohio; I think this is a trickle-down thing where we give our business friends a cut.”
For the financial security and stability of Athens, Hecht made it clear that the city does not support the bill. Councilman Kent Butler, D-1st Ward, had concerns about the effects of the bill.
“We would have to look at making cuts and increasing sewer costs for our citizens,” Butler said.
Hecht estimated that cuts for the city would be around $200,000.
“This, with previous state cuts, is almost devastating,” Hecht said, “$200,000 is a lot for us.”
The council meeting concluded with discussion on a new law dealing with the construction of balconies in Athens. It will be voted on during next week’s council.
The law deals with granting a revocable license that will allow the building of a 48-inch balcony on Court Street at the former location of the Blue Gator across from the BP gas station.
The balcony would be limited to 25 people at a time and includes a noise ordinance along with a rule that would prevent the residence from leaving anything on the balcony when not in use.
Concerns come with the legal precedent in allowing construction of balconies on Court Street and heavy traffic areas of Athens. Council Member Christine Fahl said the law could help address the inconsistencies that can arise with city planning projects.
“I think this ordinance sets a precedent in that it says we have inconsistencies,” Fahl said, “Planning is organic and you may need to relook at an idea so that we are able to change with the times.”
A decision allowing the development of this balcony may lead to a lot more balconies on Court Street. Members of City Council will vote on this subject at next week’s meeting.
bm471311@ohiou.edu
