Hamilton County commissioners forward five children'services levy options, debate homeowner relief

The Hamilton County Board of Commissioners voted July 30 to forward five auditor-certified options for the children's services levy to be formally considered at a special meeting on Monday, Aug. 3. The options added on the table include 10% and 20% revenue increases sized over two- and four-year runs and a previously considered $116,000,000 option run over four years.

Vice President Reese pressed for approaches that would reduce the levy impact on homeowners, saying the 10% option "is now on the table" and urging the board to explore using portions of existing stadium funds to buy down homeowner costs. Reese said many constituents are feeling financial strain and argued the county should seek creative funding mixes before settling on a final levy package. Commissioner Driehaus supported having a broad set of options, noting the board has assembled a "robust" menu and urging continued focus on program efficiencies.

County staff emphasized the July 30 certifications are not ballots; they are auditor approvals of levy-sizing scenarios so the board can consider formal placement at the Aug. 3 special session. Administration explained the certified options were sized to produce set revenue levels annually (not an incremental annual increase) and said the auditor can provide more detailed analyses ahead of the special meeting. Commissioners asked for clarification about overlapping local proposals (notably recent discussions around Cincinnati Public Schools funding) and how that might affect voter decisions.

Action: The motion to forward by-leaves 4 through 8 (the five additional certified options) passed by voice vote. The board directed administration to provide additional analysis and cost projections for Monday's vote.

Why it matters: The children's services levy funds mandated and discretionary programs that county officials say are essential for child safety and services. Commissioners expressed tension between reducing homeowner tax impact and preserving service funding, and signaled further negotiations on funding sources and program efficiencies will continue ahead of the ballot decision.