PRESS RELEASE

For Immediate Release September 24, 2025

Contact: Matt Nolan, Warren County Auditor & CAAO President
(513) 261-1235
MNolan@warrencountyohio.gov
   
COLUMBUS, OH – The Ohio Council of County Officials (OCCO) announced today its full support of a joint proposal from the County Auditors’ Association of Ohio (CAAO), the County Commissioners Association of Ohio (CCAO), and the County Treasurers Association of Ohio (CTAO) to address the growing property tax crisis affecting Ohio homeowners.

In a coordinated effort to bring relief to millions of Ohioans struggling with rising property taxes, these three associations outlined a comprehensive set of policy recommendations designed to bring fairness, sustainability, and targeted relief to taxpayers across the state. OCCO, which represents elected officials from all 88 counties, stands united behind this call for immediate legislative action.

The Recommendations Include:

• Expanding the Homestead Program: Raising the income threshold for qualification will allow more seniors and disabled Ohioans to benefit from property tax exemptions, providing critical relief for vulnerable residents.
• Eliminating the Non-Business Credit and Expanding the Owner Occupancy Credit: Refocusing tax benefits toward owner-occupied residential properties—rather than non-residential or for-profit entities—will make the system more equitable and better aligned with the needs of homeowners.
• Limiting Revenue Growth Due to Reappraisal Changes: Placing a cap on how much school districts can increase property tax revenue as a result of rising valuations will help prevent sudden and unaffordable tax hikes.
• Creating a Menu of Targeted Relief Options: Offering deferrals, credits, and abatements based on a resident’s long-term ability to pay ensures that relief is provided where it’s most needed—among low- to moderate-income homeowners.

OCCO agrees with CAAO, CCAO, and CTAO that there is no one-size-fits-all solution to Ohio’s property tax challenges. However, implementing this suite of reforms would significantly reduce the burden on millions of homeowners across the state.

About OCCO:

The Ohio Council of County Officials (OCCO) is a non-partisan organization representing elected county officials throughout Ohio. OCCO advocates for policies that promote efficient and fiscally responsible governance.