North Columbus News

Ohio property owners face challenges in achieving and maintaining homeownership due to rising property taxes, according to Scott R. Williams, CEO of Ohio REALTORS. Representing over 36,000 members, the organization advocates for accessible homeownership and a conducive environment for businesses and families in Ohio.

This year, Ohio REALTORS partnered with the Ohio Chamber of Commerce to form the Ohio Taxpayer Protection Coalition. The coalition aimed to reform the property tax system, resulting in several proposals included in the budget passed by the General Assembly. These proposals intended to slow unvoted tax growth and reinforce constitutional protections amid rising valuations and local levy growth. However, Governor DeWine vetoed these reforms.

Williams expressed disappointment at the vetoes and urged the Ohio Legislature to override them. He highlighted that many Americans are relocating from high-tax states to Ohio for lower taxes and better opportunities. Failing to adopt these reforms could reverse this trend, risking increased emigration from Ohio.

The vetoed proposals include measures like counting all levies toward a 20-mill floor to control inflationary increases during valuation spikes. Another provision would allow local county budget commissions to adjust voted tax rates based on fiscal conditions, ensuring taxpayers are protected from unvoted tax hikes while maintaining essential funding for schools and local governments.

Williams commended the actions of the Ohio General Assembly for listening to taxpayers and acting accordingly. He called on them to override the governor’s vetoes to safeguard a fair property tax system crucial for Ohio's future prosperity.

"On behalf of our 36,000 members, current Ohio homeowners and Ohio’s future homeowners," Williams stated, "we urge the legislature to stand firm and deliver the relief Ohioans have requested."