Taxing Authorities Should Consider Assisting Taxpayers
CHARDON, OHIO – February 2, 2021 – Geauga County Auditor, Charles E. Walder, proposes that all taxing authorities in Geauga County consider reducing taxes this year to aid their residents. This comes in response to a difficult year with the COVID-19 pandemic, which put a strain on all taxpayers.
“There is a lot that can and should be done to assist people during this pandemic, in regard to their real estate property taxes,” said Auditor Walder. “Unfortunately, the County Auditor has very limited, if any, authority to enact remedy. But, I fully support and recommend that every taxing authority consider a one-year suspension on collecting any levied or inside millage revenue earmarked for projects or expenses that can be responsibly delayed until our populace can recover.”
Auditor Walder proposes that Geauga County’s taxing authorities (county entities like parks, libraries, mental health boards, jobs and family services department, department on aging, county sales tax, schools, townships, villages, and the city) review their financial circumstances and consider taking this unprecedented, but responsible step to provide temporary aid to taxpayers. Auditor Walder’s Office has already communicated with the Ohio Department of Taxation about the possibility of offering mid-year tax relief. The Ohio Department of Taxation has referred Auditor Walder’s request to their legal staff for consideration.
“I strongly support this initiative, and will do my part to be a resource for local governments to best aid the people of Geauga County,” Auditor Walder said. “We are here to help during these tough times.”.
For more information, please contact Kate Jacob by email at [email protected] or phone (440) 279-1629.
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