Buckeye Reporter

Attorney General Dave Yost has called on county officials in Ohio to form a coalition aimed at reforming property taxes. He warned that without proactive measures, a citizen-led ballot initiative might eliminate the current system entirely.

“Ohioans are as angry as I’ve ever seen them – and rightly so,” Yost stated. “These inflationary tax increases are hurting everyone and, in some cases, are forcing people out of the homes they worked their entire lives for.”

Addressing the Ohio Council of County Officials, Yost highlighted that from 2020 to 2024, property taxes increased by nearly 19%, amounting to $3.8 billion. Residential and agricultural property owners have been most affected due to rising property valuations.

Yost, who has experience as both a county auditor and state auditor, emphasized the need for schools, counties, and local governments—entities heavily reliant on property taxes—to take the lead in reform efforts before the system is abolished altogether. He noted that homeowners are increasingly frustrated with rising taxes and associated income losses.

He predicted that an upcoming ballot measure to abolish property taxes would likely pass if it reached voters. He urged local leaders to address this issue promptly or face financial instability.

“Lead now, or the people will surely blow up the property-tax system,” Yost said. “Reform will be painful, but not nearly as painful as trying to replace $20 billion in revenue that supports schools and local government.”

For further information, contact Steve Irwin at 614-728-5417.