Trumbull County commissioners adopt resolution asking state to revisit property tax policy

The Board of Trumbull County Commissioners voted unanimously Thursday to adopt a resolution asking state lawmakers and administrators to revisit policy that governs property taxation in Ohio.

Commissioners said the county’s recent six‑year property reappraisal produced sizeable increases in assessed values that many homeowners cannot recoup unless they sell. Commissioner Barnard introduced the resolution asking the state delegation to consider policy changes aimed at reducing the tax burden on property owners in Trumbull County.

The resolution, as read at the meeting, noted that "property tax rate value policy is set by the Ohio Constitution and Ohio Revised Code" and requested that state leaders consider changes to lower the burden on local property owners. Commissioner Denny Malloy, who took part in the discussion, said the increase hit residents on fixed incomes hardest, including seniors and veterans, and commended Barnard for drafting the resolution.

Commissioner Barnard thanked his colleagues for support and said other counties might follow Trumbull’s lead in sending similar requests to the state. President Rick Hernandez and the other commissioners likewise voiced support during a prolonged on‑record discussion of the issue before the roll call.

The motion to adopt the resolution was approved with a roll call vote of three yes votes. The text of the resolution and any further follow‑up with the county’s state delegation were not specified during the meeting.

The board did not specify legislative language it seeks from the state. Commissioners said next steps will include sharing the resolution with Trumbull’s legislative delegation and with the County Commissioners Association of Ohio.

Votes on the resolution were taken during the regular meeting; commissioners said they intend to work with neighboring counties and the state delegation going forward.