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Commissioners discuss renewing Ohio Public Works program on ballot, urge outreach to secure local projects
Summary
County leaders discussed the Ohio Public Works Commission renewal on the ballot, emphasizing that the program leverages state funds for local wastewater, water and stormwater projects and that Williams County has received more than $1.37 million for local projects since 2017.
County staff and one commissioner urged local support and outreach for the Ohio Public Works Commission (OPWC) renewal on the ballot, saying the program helps fund water, wastewater and stormwater projects statewide and has delivered significant funds to local communities.
A staff member described OPWC as a renewal measure created in 1987 that voters have approved three times and said it ‘‘does not raise taxes’’ but relies on an existing revenue stream. The transcript discussion named LTIP and SIP as program acronyms — county engineers and local communities typically use those funds for infrastructure work.
The commissioner noted that Edgerton alone has used OPWC funds since 2017 for several projects — a water treatment plant project, a drainage project, pump station rehabilitation and a new water main — totaling $1,374,320 in OPWC funding for the municipality. Commissioners discussed that projects are competitive and scored, and that money is allocated by district; county engineers play a key role in submitting and prioritizing projects.
The board agreed to place the matter on old business so the county can consider drafting a resolution of support and to coordinate outreach to ensure projects are proposed and ranked competitively within the district.
Ending
Staff will prepare materials and a draft resolution so the commissioners can consider formal support for the OPWC renewal and coordinate outreach to local jurisdictions and stakeholders.
