The Strasburg Village Council has formally opposed a potential statewide ballot initiative that seeks to repeal real estate taxes, warning of severe consequences for essential public services. In a resolution passed on October 21, council members expressed concerns that eliminating this key revenue source could jeopardize funding for local schools, police and fire departments, and other community programs.
The initiative, which could appear on the 2026 general election ballot, prompted the council to alert state lawmakers to what they described as a "disruptive and potentially catastrophic" financial risk for the village and Franklin Township.
Key Takeaways
- Strasburg Village Council passed a resolution to formally oppose a proposed repeal of real estate taxes.
- Officials warn the repeal could defund schools, police, fire protection, the senior center, and the library.
- Council members believe the measure would force local governments to find new taxes, offering no real savings to residents.
- The village is also moving forward with holiday preparations, public safety updates, and infrastructure projects.
Fears Over Funding for Essential Services
The core of the council's opposition centers on the reliance of local services on property tax revenue. According to the resolution, the Strasburg-Franklin Local School District, along with police and fire services, the local library, and the senior center, are all funded either entirely or in part by these taxes.
Village officials argue that a repeal would leave these critical services severely underfunded. The resolution states that local governments and school districts would be forced to explore alternative taxing methods to maintain operations. This, they contend, would likely result in little to no actual savings for taxpayers while creating significant financial instability.
As a next step, Strasburg officials plan to communicate their position directly to the Ohio General Assembly. They intend to urge state lawmakers to prevent the proposed initiative from reaching the ballot.
What is at Stake?
Real estate taxes are a primary funding mechanism for most local governments in Ohio. They support a wide range of public services that residents depend on daily, including emergency response, education, road maintenance, and community facilities. A statewide repeal would fundamentally alter how these services are financed across Ohio.
Public Safety and Community Updates
Beyond the tax issue, the council addressed several key public safety matters. Members confirmed that Police Chief Randy Haugh successfully completed his six-month probationary period, effective October 15. The police department handled 99 calls for service between October 2 and October 21.
On the fire department side, a crucial renewal levy is set for the November 4 ballot. Issue 10 is a five-year, 2.5-mill renewal that will not increase taxes. If passed, it will continue to generate $374,167 annually to fund 24/7 fire and ambulance coverage for the community.
The fire department also held a donation drive with the National Fire Safety Council, raising $1,800 for educational materials. The department responded to 28 calls in the first half of October. An open house is scheduled at the fire station on November 1 from 3-5 p.m., just before trick-or-treat.
By the Numbers: Village Operations
- $374,167: Annual revenue generated by the fire levy renewal.
- 99: Police calls for service from Oct. 2 to Oct. 21.
- 28: Fire department responses from Oct. 1 to Oct. 15.
- $255,938: Total cost of recently completed village paving projects.
Holiday Preparations and Village Business
With the holiday season approaching, the council approved a sponsorship for the annual Christmas in the Village celebration. The village will spend $1,500 on ice carvings for the event, which is scheduled for December 13.
"The company will bring in two completed ice carvings and a third carving — a tiger — will be done in front of the arch at the school," Mayor Bruce Metzger said.
In other business, the council approved a permit for Gatherings Bread Co., a new home-based business located at 524 Keim Drive NW. They also accepted the resignation of Street Department employee Christian Lightell and hired Grant Barton as a Street Department Laborer I at a rate of $20.60 per hour.
A first reading was held for a resolution to appoint Law Director Terry Seeberger to a new two-year contract, effective December 1, 2025. The contract is for $9,500 annually, with additional stipends for council meetings and other work.
Infrastructure and Community Life
Several infrastructure and community items were also discussed. Council members agreed to contact the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) regarding traffic congestion at the intersection of U.S. 250 and Interstate 77. The village's recent paving projects have been completed at a total cost of $255,938.
For community recreation, the inaugural Pickleball Classic held on October 11 was noted as a success, drawing 64 participants. As winter approaches, the south restrooms at the village park have been closed, though the north restrooms will stay open to accommodate high school football playoffs.
Residents were also reminded that leaf collection will begin on November 10 and continue on Mondays and Tuesdays through December 9. The next village council meeting is scheduled for November 4 at 6 p.m. at 224 N. Bodmer Ave.
