Lawmakers unveil legislation to boost county efficiency and cut waste
State Reps. David Thomas (R-Jefferson) and Ty Mathews (R-Findlay) recently introduced House Bill 520, legislation that would establish Blue Ribbon Committees in every Ohio county to review local taxing units, departments, and public services in an effort to reduce duplication, improve efficiency, and save taxpayer dollars.
“As we continue to work on property tax reform this legislation will provide great next steps to aid in reducing costs and promote the need for efficiency in our local governments to help our taxpayers throughout Ohio,” said Rep. Thomas.
Each committee will assess overlapping services among taxing districts, county programs, and public service entities, such as water, sewer, health, parks, and cemeteries, and recommend opportunities for consolidation or shared services. The initiative aims to strengthen accountability and improve how counties deliver services to their residents.
“This bill is about strengthening Ohio’s future by ensuring that government works smarter for the people it serves,” said Representative Mathews, “The Blue Ribbon Committee will help keep our state competitive, our communities strong, and our resources focused where they make the greatest difference. When government operates efficiently, all Ohioans benefit.”
There are counties throughout Ohio that have an established Blue Ribbon Committee and have had success in working to improve efficiencies in government. The committee brings together local officials that have these discussions to take action for their taxpayers.
House Bill 520 awaits a committee assignment.