Ohio voters have an important chance to actively decide to move our state forward economically. On the Nov. 8 election ballot, voters will have before them State Issue 1, a 10-year, $2 billion bond package focused on creating jobs now and in the future. The important initiative includes three basic proposals: Investment in research and technology, providing a total of $500 million in grants that will be awarded for technology research and development of new products. Research will be conducted in areas such as alternative fuel development and the search for improved treatments and cures for diseases. Those funds will support important research projects such as those under way at Ohio University. Additionally, grants will be aimed at launching new businesses that can take the resulting products to market. Improved research capabilities and better, high-paying jobs for Ohioans will be the end result.
Renewal of the state's infrastructure bond program, providing funds for local government road, water supply, and sewer and bridge building projects. Support of basic infrastructure needs is vital to our communities and to the sustainability of our university. The program has a proven track record of support for projects in all of Ohio's 88 counties, reaching in to communities statewide and helping to create jobs. Of the funds generated from Issue 1, $1.35 billion will be used for the purpose of improving and maintaining Ohio's infrastructure needs.
Preparation of job-ready sites will be made possible by $150 million in grants to local governments. Those funds will help communities compete for new business and industry by preparing sites already equipped with the utilities and roads needed for quick development.
With a struggling economy, our state is at a major crossroad. As Ohioans, we have the opportunity to invest in our future. I hope you will join me in voting yes for State Issue 1 - Jobs for Ohio!
- Ohio University President Roderick J. McDavis.
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