From TERESA FEDOR
An alliance of Northwest Ohio public service advocates is hosting “The Future of Property Taxes: Understanding the Impact on Northwest Ohio Public Services,” a panel discussion exploring how the potential repeal of property taxes to Ohio’s tax structure may impact communities across the region and the state. The event takes place on Wednesday, April 29, from 6:30 – 8:30 p.m., at the Penta Career Center Auditorium.
“The property tax remains the oldest and most significant revenue source in Ohio,” said Zach Schiller, research director for Policy Matters Ohio. “While repeal may hold surface-level appeal, it is a profoundly ill-advised proposal. Residents are encouraged to attend the April 29 forum to understand the serious implications of such a shift.”
“Property taxes support the critical public services that our families rely on every day,” said Board of Lucas County Commissioners President Lisa A. Sobecki. “Strong communities invest in robust, dependable police and fire services, maintain our roads and infrastructure, support public health systems, fund our public schools, take care of our seniors, and provide essential services to children, families, and our neighbors with developmental disabilities.”
As state revenues decline, funding for essential public services, including schools, public safety, infrastructure, and local programs, may face increasing pressure. When state support is reduced, the financial burden often shifts to local communities through higher local taxes or reduced services. Additionally, a total repeal of property taxes would likely have a negative impact for farmland and the Current Agricultural Use Value.
For Northwest Ohio communities, this dynamic could mean balancing rising costs with fewer available resources.
“To pull back this funding without an alternative would be devastating,” said Sobecki. “We cannot leave families without access to reliable help in an emergency or the critical day-to-day support that keeps our community safe, healthy, and thriving.”
“Property tax reform is necessary,” said John Patterson, co-author of Ohio’s Fair School Funding Plan. “However, to be addressed prudently, time, effort, and input from all perspectives will be needed. It won’t be easy. It won’t be without challenges. But when we work together, we can accomplish the seemingly impossible.”
Panelists include Schiller; Patterson; Sobecki; Steve Dyer, former member of the Ohio House of Representatives, 10th Period Substack; Melissa Petrea, Middleton Township Trustee; and Ted Finnarn, Ohio Farmers United.
The discussion will examine not only the fiscal implication of the proposed changes, but also the broader question of what they mean for the future of local communities and the investments required to sustain them. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn more, ask questions, and engage with experts and regional leaders on an issue that affects residents in Northwest Ohio.
The event is organized by a grassroots coalition of school board members and public service leaders from Lucas, Fulton, and Wood counties.
For more information or to register, visit the event page on Facebook. The Penta Career Center Auditorium is located at 9301 Buck Road, Perrysburg.
