Hamilton County administration says levy review wrapping up; audit agreement approved

Hamilton County officials told the Board of County Commissioners on April 23 that a financial review of the Children's Services Levy is nearing completion and that the county has an agreement with the State of Ohio to conduct the county's 2025 financial audit.

Mr. Aluotto, speaking for county administration, said a firm engaged to review the levy "is starting to wrap that up" and that the Board should receive a report in early May. The review was described as specifically focused on where levy balances had been drawn down, a point commissioners said they wanted clarified before any further votes or public decisions.

The Board also considered and approved an annual agreement with the State of Ohio for the county's 2025 financial audit at $245,196. Administration described the figure as similar to recent years and confirmed the county is responsible for paying the audit costs. "By law, the county has to have its financial statements audited every year," administration said during the discussion.

Commissioner Driehaus and other commissioners emphasized transparency for taxpayers. One commissioner asked that the independent audit and the levy review be provided to the public ahead of any decisions so voters and taxpayers can see the underlying numbers.

No specific timetable beyond the early-May report was attached to any decision in the meeting. The agreement with the State to begin the audit was approved on the consent calendar and will proceed as an administrative step consistent with state law.