Hamilton County Auditor promotes rental registration and advocates for homestead tax reform

In the heart of Golf Manor, the Village Council convened on July 7, 2025, to address pressing issues affecting the community, particularly focusing on rental registration and tax relief for residents. The meeting, held under the warm glow of city hall lights, highlighted the importance of accurate rental registration and the need for better support for the village's senior citizens.

A key topic of discussion was the rental registration program, which mandates landlords in Hamilton County to file registration forms. Officials emphasized the necessity of this program, especially in light of recent scams where unsuspecting renters were defrauded by individuals posing as landlords. The council urged residents to utilize the property summary function on the county's website, which provides verified information about rental properties and their landlords. This initiative aims to protect consumers and ensure they are not taken advantage of in the housing market.

The conversation then shifted to tax credits available for residents, particularly the homestead exemption and owner occupancy credit. The homestead exemption, designed to assist senior citizens aged 65 and older, has faced challenges due to new income qualifications that have disqualified many long-time beneficiaries. Council members expressed concern that these changes have disproportionately affected the elderly, who often live on fixed incomes. They called on residents to advocate for reform by contacting their state representatives to emphasize the importance of this exemption and to push for the removal of income restrictions.

Additionally, the owner occupancy credit was discussed as a valuable resource for homeowners living in their primary residences. Council members encouraged residents to check their eligibility for these tax credits, which could provide significant financial relief.

In a bid to enhance communication and transparency, the Hamilton County Auditor's Office announced its presence on social media platforms, aiming to keep the community informed about important updates and resources. This initiative reflects a broader commitment to engage with residents and ensure they have access to vital information.

As the meeting concluded, council members expressed gratitude for the opportunity to connect with the community and reiterated their readiness to assist residents with any inquiries or concerns. The discussions underscored a collective effort to strengthen the village and support its residents, particularly the most vulnerable among them.