Mahoning County approves 2.5% owner-occupancy property tax exemption after public pleas to delay

Mahoning County commissioners voted unanimously June 30 to authorize a 2.5% partial property‑tax exemption for owner‑occupied homes for the 2026 tax year, paid in 2027, saying the short-term measure will provide relief to homeowners ahead of uncertain state action.

Bruce Sheepus, president of the Mahoning County Township Association, urged the board to table the resolution and meet with trustees before action, saying the association represents all 14 townships and warning of “significant” local impacts. "On behalf of the leaders of all 14 townships, please table this resolution and allow us the opportunity to meet with you," Sheepus said, and cited estimates for individual townships including Austin Township (about $133,000), Boardman (about $24,000), Poland (about $33,000) and Canfield (about $26,000).

Ben Marco, treasurer of Canfield Local Schools, told commissioners the district stands to lose roughly $380,000 under the proposal—"which is likely the equivalent of about four teachers"—and urged postponing the vote so school and township officials could fully assess budgetary effects.

Commissioners said they were balancing the need for immediate taxpayer relief with limited time and statutory deadlines tied to the state’s valuation process. The resolution as read in the meeting cites Ohio Revised Code section 323.152B3 and states the exemption will apply for the 2026 tax year (paid in 2027) and that any continuation beyond that year would require a separate resolution.

The board read the resolution, a motion to approve was made and seconded, and roll call recorded "yes" votes by Commissioner Remedi, Commissioner Trafkanti and Commissioner Deabio; the motion passed. The meeting record did not identify who moved or seconded the motion by name during the oral proceedings.

Supporters of the exemption framed it as a targeted, short‑term measure to offer taxpayers some relief while broader state reform efforts continue; critics and affected local officials said the measure was rushed without sufficient consultation and that repeated one‑year exemptions could accumulate budget pressure on townships and school districts.

The resolution takes effect for the 2026 tax year (paid in 2027); commissioners noted that any extension beyond that period would require further board action. The board set its next meeting for Thursday and adjourned.