Council amends CRA resolution to remove sunset clause after debate over economic development

Findlay City Council reconsidered and amended Resolution 028-2025 on Dec. 16 to remove Section 8, a provision that would have caused a sunset of certain CRA benefits. Councilmember Russell moved for the amendment; after debate the council adopted the amendment and then approved the resolution as amended.

Supporters said the CRA remains an important tool for economic development and for reinvesting in properties that otherwise might go unrepaired. Councilmember Russell said the CRA enabled owners to reinvest in housing and commercial projects and that some clarifications at the state level made setting explicit boundaries and language necessary. "This CRA continues to be a good tool for economic development," he said.

Opponents warned the CRA has been expanded too broadly and can reduce property‑tax revenue for school districts. Councilwoman Holly Frishee argued the CRA was being used outside its intended purpose and cautioned about impacts on schools. "When we give a CRA, to be very clear, we're giving tax abatement on property tax," she said, adding that school districts feel immediate impacts.

Councilmember Hellman noted that other Ohio cities have adopted citywide CRAs in the past and challenged some of Frishee's characterizations. The mayor clarified a mapping detail, noting at least one recently annexed property (the Cole property) would be included when the city submits the map to the state at adoption.

The council adopted the amendment to remove the sunset provision by recorded vote and then passed Resolution 028-2025 as amended.

Next steps: The clerk will renumber sections as needed and prepare the amended resolution for signature and submission to the state per statutory requirements.