Hamilton County · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Hamilton County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Vendor Diversity and County Procurement Practices
Hamilton County is rolling out a brand new grant program that gives up to $10,000 to small businesses in participating areas. Twenty-one local businesses were recommended to receive funding after going through business planning classes.
Baker Construction Enterprise Zone Agreement
Baker Construction is planning a $13 million renovation of a vacant facility in Sharonville to house its new corporate headquarters, bringing 192 new high-paying jobs to Hamilton County.
Appointment of New JFS Director
The county appointed Bob Anderson, former Delaware County JFS director, to lead Hamilton County Department of Job and Family Services during a critical transition period.
Urban League Building Futures Workforce Training
The commissioners approved a $100,000 agreement with the Urban League of Greater Southwestern Ohio to support the Building Futures Program, which connects residents with good-paying careers in the building trades.
County Fellowship Program Impact
Hamilton County's fellowship program successfully trains young professionals through hands-on experience across multiple departments, leading to operational improvements like streamlined JFS contracting workflows.
County Youth Employment and Services
Commissioners celebrated the success of the recent Youth Employment Day kickoff in the West End, which connected hundreds of teens with 1,300 jobs, free birth certificates, and medical physicals. Officials praised community partners for removing barriers to employment.
Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (SEDS) 5-Year Update
The county is kicking off its five-year economic development plan update. Commissioners emphasized the need for county-wide investments outside downtown, housing affordability, and infrastructure that supports an aging population.
Group Sales Enterprise Zone Tax Abatement
Group Sales plans a 7,100,000 dollar expansion in Lockland, adding a 72,000-square-foot warehouse addition that retains 38 jobs and creates three new ones. Alloy Development recommended a 75 percent, six-year tax abatement to support the project.
Large Tourism Event Grant Allocations
Several community stakeholders and festival organizers testified regarding the $1 million allocated for large tourism grants, with recommendations focusing on Blink and the Cincinnati Music Festival due to high economic impact.