By: Kaitlynn Grady
Ohio Gov. John Kasich’s focus on bringing business to Ohio could have a negative impact on Athens, a topic that led to much conversation at Athens City Council last night on an evening where the body reviewed both previous and new plans.
Councilwoman Chris Fahl explained how Kaisch’s switch to centralized income tax collection is costly to the taxpayers of Athens.
“The state’s proposal will cause loss of jobs and increase cost for us,” Fahl said, garnering a response from Councilwoman Nancy Bain.
“So much for being local neutral,” Bain said.
Auditor Kathy Hecht presented a preliminary proposal for a decentralized income tax ordinance, explaining how the current administration believes it will attract large businesses to Athens.
“I don’t think any large businesses would come here because (centralized income tax) is easier,” said Council President Bill Bias. “It’s not a huge undertaking to understand our tax system here.”
Though the council members agreed upon the city’s need for the ordinance, they requested that it be revised, as it will eventually be sent to the Ohio State Governor, the Treasurer and the General Assembly.
In addition, the Planning and Development Committee reviewed plans to potentially develop the last piece of land available for annexation in Athens.
Mike Noel, an architect with Panich Architecture, and his attorney, Adam Baker, presented a plan to add sewer and water capabilities to the East State Street property, a plan that could generate revenue for both the city of Athens and bordering Canaan Township.
“If we add sewer and water (to the property), tax revenue would increase as well as the property’s value,” Noel said.
Fahl explained how making use of the land would benefit Athens via job creation — depending on what business bought it.
Other topics discussed included councilmembers’ approval of the Environmental Committee’s first draft of a new franchise agreement with American Electric Power Co. to utilize more renewable energy sources throughout the city.
Athens requested a three-month contract extension with AEP because their previous contract expired in August.
Councilman Elahu Gosney’s push for a renewable energy clause was brought on by the state’s failure to renew its advanced energy fund, which supplied funding to counties to explore green energy options.
“The voters want renewable energy, so it is my duty to push for this,” Gosney said.
—Sara Lowenstein contributed to this article.
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