(Chillicothe, OH) — Local officials today announced that Ross County will cut its general fund property tax levy rate rate by 22% next year, from 3.1 mills to 2.4 to provide tax relief for Ross County citizens. This follows months of historical budget research, projections and planning across departments and equates to roughly $1.3 million in 2025 tax savings for Ross County property owners and is renewable annually based on future County financial conditions. The planned reduction represents Ross County’s first direct tax relief measure in nearly twenty years.
“All three Commissioners supported this plan because it’s the right move for our citizens and a positive step,” said Commissioner Jack Everson. “The goal is to provide sustainable value in terms of financial stability and critical infrastructure. Today’s decision means next year we’ll do it at a lower cost to taxpayers.”
Treasurer David Jeffers and Auditor Jeff Lehner, members of Ross County’s Budget Commission, agreed. “I fully support today’s action as it reflects our commitment to easing financial burdens on our residents while maintaining services and supporting our community’s growth,” Jeffers said. Lehner added: “Tax cuts and balanced budgets are the way to keep local government from getting too fat. Today marks another milestone in our ongoing efforts toward greater efficiency.”
The 2025 tax rate reduction was authorized unanimously by the Ross County Commissioners and formally adopted this afternoon by the Ross County Budget Commission. Accordingly, revised revenue projections will be incorporated into year-end production of Ross County’s official 2025 budget. Officials stressed that today’s action will not result in cuts to any of the County’s essential services to citizens or neglect of local infrastructure needs as it is funded entirely by surplus County revenues.
Ross County residents who wish to know more are encouraged to call the Auditor’s or Treasurer’s office at 740-702-3080, or E-mail the Auditor or Treasurer directly: [email protected], [email protected]
