Type II Annexation Process in Ohio

In Municipal by Coolidge Wall

Property owners may seek annexation into a neighboring municipality for a variety of reasons. Perhaps the property owner seeks city services or city zoning. Whatever the motivation, a property owner who seeks annexation into a neighboring city can do so fairly quickly and easily under the Expedited Type II annexation process. The property owner applies to the Board of County Commissioners and if all statutory requirements are met, the process can be completed in as little as a few months. In a Type II annexation, the annexed property still remains in the township, so any property taxes levied by the …

Home Rule Authority in Ohio Municipalities

In General, Municipal by Coolidge Wall

Ohio cities have flexibility under Ohio law to establish laws in accordance with the powers of local self-government, otherwise known as Home Rule Authority. The relevant provisions of the Ohio Constitution were enacted in 1912 and read: Municipal Powers of Local Self-Government. §3 Municipalities shall have authority to exercise all powers of local self-government and to adopt and enforce within their limits such local police, sanitary and other similar regulations, as are not in conflict with general laws. Home rule; Municipal Charter. §7 Any municipality may frame and adopt or amend a charter for its government and may, subject to …

Changes in state law affecting local ballot issues

In General, Municipal by Coolidge Wall

With summer in full swing, the November general election seems far off into the future. However, the deadline is fast approaching for local governments to submit issues to the Board of Elections for the November 2014 ballot. With recent changes to the Ohio Revised Code, local ballot questions must be submitted to the Board of Elections by August 6, 2014 for the November 4, 2014 general election. Political subdivisions such as municipalities have struggled with budgeting shortfalls in recent years. In 2011, the state government cut the Local Government Fund by $555 million, resulting in municipalities receiving significantly less funding …