Ohio legislators propose expanded property tax relief and exemptions for homeowners

During the March 17, 2025 Board of Education meeting, Westerville City School District officials discussed significant developments regarding property tax relief that could impact local homeowners. The meeting highlighted ongoing legislative efforts aimed at providing direct financial relief to property owners, particularly through proposed expansions of the homestead exemption.

Currently, the homestead exemption benefits senior citizens and permanently disabled Ohioans, with recent proposals suggesting an expansion to include a broader range of residents. This initiative is designed to alleviate the financial burden on homeowners, especially as many have experienced rising property tax bills due to recent reappraisals.

The discussion also touched on the historical context of property tax rollbacks, which had previously provided a 12.5% reduction for residential properties. This rollback was eliminated for new levies after 2013, leading to increased costs for homeowners without additional funding for the school district. The state has acknowledged that its policies have shifted the property tax burden from businesses to homeowners and farmers, exacerbating financial strain on local residents.

With 64% of the district's revenue derived from local property taxes, the implications of these legislative changes are critical. The board emphasized the need for continued monitoring of state-level reforms to ensure that local residents are not disproportionately affected by rising taxes. As discussions around property tax relief progress, the district remains committed to advocating for solutions that support its community's financial well-being.