Hamilton County · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Hamilton County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Harrison Annexation and Retail Development
The county approved an annexation agreement between the City of Harrison and Harrison Township to clear the way for a new retail project by Midland Atlantic Properties.
City West Senior Housing Concerns
Commissioners discussed potential threats to senior housing stability at City West, questioning whether loan conditions from the Cincinnati Development Fund might displace elderly residents.
Major Civic and Stadium Infrastructure Projects
Commissioners discussed ballpark condition assessments, Paycor Stadium change orders, and financial considerations surrounding the downtown convention hotel project.
University Station Student Housing Bond Financing
The county approved a tax-exempt bond financing plan of up to $75 million through the Port for a student housing project near Xavier University. The approval fulfills federal requirements for host community consent without putting county credit at risk.
2025 HOME Investment Partnership Program Recommendations
County leaders and the Cincinnati Development Fund are rushing to allocate the last $5.3 million in federal ARPA funds before the end-of-year deadline. While projects inside Cincinnati move easily, suburban projects face community resistance and a lack of local development partners, forcing commissioners to weigh whether to keep pushing for outlying projects or redirect funds to city developments.
Affordable Housing Investment in Over-the-Rhine
The county approved $850,000 in HOME-ARP funding to help create 25 units of modern, accessible housing in Over-the-Rhine. This project is partnered with Tender Mercies and Over the Rhine Community Housing to serve individuals facing mental health challenges or homelessness.
Property Acquisition Executive Session
The commission held a closed-door session to discuss acquiring real estate for county operations.
Convention Center Headquarters Hotel Financing
The county approved transient occupancy tax exemptions and development agreements to help finance the construction of a new 700-room headquarters hotel near the convention center. Commissioners discussed project timelines, room counts, and public revenue protection.
Central Campus Relocation and Facility Consolidation
The county celebrated the grand opening of the new Central Campus on Patricia McCullum Way, consolidating multiple services like JFS, Veterans Services, and Public Health into one location with free parking.
Springfield Township Housing and TIF Districts
Springfield Township is advancing three major residential developments and TIF districts to encourage empty-nesters to downsize and free up starter homes. The TIF revenue will fund necessary sewer extensions, road repairs, and pedestrian trails.
Carthage Fairgrounds Property Reconsideration
Commissioner Summerow Dumas proposed reevaluating the use of the 38-acre Carthage Fairgrounds site, currently restricted by state law for agricultural fairs, to explore opportunities for affordable housing.