Council discusses renewal of Ohio's vital infrastructure funding program

During the City Council meeting held on March 10, 2025, in Mount Vernon, Ohio, discussions centered around the renewal of the Ohio Public Works Commission (OPWC) program, which is crucial for funding local infrastructure projects. Mayor Matt Starr emphasized the importance of this program, noting that it has successfully funded over 19,000 critical infrastructure projects across Ohio since its inception in 1987. This includes essential upgrades to roads, bridges, wastewater treatment plants, and more, benefiting every county in the state.

The mayor highlighted that since the last renewal in 2014, approximately $2.3 billion has been awarded to local governments for nearly 4,500 projects. He pointed out that the OPWC program fosters strong partnerships, particularly with townships that cannot access Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) funds. This collaboration has enabled projects in areas like Buckeye Edition and Fairgrounds Road.

The council is considering a non-binding resolution to encourage voter turnout for the upcoming renewal vote. Mayor Starr stressed that passing the resolution is only the first step; effective communication with the public is essential. He plans to include information about the OPWC program in his State of the City address and will engage with local organizations and media to raise awareness. The mayor also mentioned that while the council can promote the resolution, they are prohibited from using public funds for campaigning.

The discussions at this meeting underscore the city's commitment to maintaining and improving its infrastructure through community engagement and voter participation. As the council prepares to vote on the resolution, the focus remains on ensuring that residents understand the significance of the OPWC program and the need for their support at the polls.