Proposed ballot initiative would allocate funds without raising taxes
State Representative Richard N. Adams (R-Troy) yesterday announced the passage of Senate Joint Resolution 6 in the House of Representatives, an infrastructure improvement resolution which authorizes nearly $2 billion in funding for improvement projects. Representative Adams cosponsored SJR 6 as a member of the House Finance and Appropriations Committee, which led to the legislation being approved on the House floor. The resolution will now be sent to the governor for his consideration.
SJR 6 puts before voters a ballot initiative to renew funding for the Ohio Public Works Commission (PWC). The PWC provides financing for local government infrastructure improvements such as roads, bridges, solid waste disposal, water supply, storm water collection and waste water treatment. The renewal of these bonds, which will be put before voters on the May ballot, would authorize $1.875 billion of funding over 10 years without raising taxes on Ohioans.
“This is important legislation that will provide local government and state government an opportunity to work together to update, repair and construct infrastructure projects needed and used by the residents of Ohio,” Adams said. “In addition, the bonds, upon being approved by the voters, will provide thousands of jobs for Ohio workers.”
Under the program, grants or loans for local governments are available for up to 90 percent for repair or replacement projects, and up to 50 percent for new or expansion projects.
The Ohio Public Works Commission was created in 1987 after being approved by voters as an amendment to the Ohio Constitution and has twice been reauthorized by voters. Since that time, it has provided more than $3 billion in assistance to local governments for infrastructure projects. The program’s current bonding authority is set to expire soon.
