Hamilton County · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Hamilton County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Rapid Run Bridge Replacement Design
The board funded $141,620 in engineering design for the Rapid Run bridge in Delhi Township — construction money isn't secured yet, so the design sets up grant applications.
Clerk of Courts Technology Update
The county's court case management system dates to 1997 and handles records for nearly every justice agency. The Clerk of Courts has taken over its governance and is working toward a full replacement, which should mean easier public access to records, better security, and fewer system outages.
Township Road and Infrastructure Improvements
The county is moving forward with major intersection improvements at Fields Ertel Road, McCauley Road, and Conrey Road, backed by federal and state grants.
November 2026 Election Security and Preparedness
The county reviewed security measures, emergency evacuation plans, law enforcement coordination, and poll worker training to ensure a safe and orderly voting process for the November 3 election.
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.
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.
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.
Fort Washington Way Traffic and Regional Construction Impacts
Commissioners addressed severe traffic congestion caused by simultaneous construction projects on the Western Hills Viaduct, 1-75, and local roads, requesting better public coordination tools.
MSD Sewer Lateral Assessments and Capital Upgrades
MSD brought forward a resolution to certify over $4.7 million in unpaid industrial sewer charges for an inactive industrial property in St. Bernard.
Major Civic and Stadium Infrastructure Projects
Commissioners discussed ballpark condition assessments, Paycor Stadium change orders, and financial considerations surrounding the downtown convention hotel project.
Mental Health Recovery Services Board Appointments
Commissioners raised major concerns regarding the transparency, property ownership, term limits, and financial accountability of the unelected Mental Health Board, requesting a comprehensive legal review.
CDBG Non-Profit Grant Allocations
Commissioners reviewed the proposed 2026 Annual Action Plan, which outlines how about $5 million in federal HUD block grants will be spent across CDBG, HOME, and ESG programs.
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.
Infant Mortality Reduction and Community Champions
Cradle Cincinnati shared updated health data showing positive trends in reducing infant mortality rates in Hamilton County while honoring community advocates, researchers, and home visitors.
Transfer of Lot 18 at the Banks for Public Park Use
Commissioners approved transferring Lot 18 at the Banks to the City of Cincinnati so it can be developed into a miniature golf course and public park space. While supporting the project, commissioners raised concerns about long-term deed restrictions and ensuring future boards retain control if the land use changes.
Establishment of Hamilton County Housing Advisory Board
To comply with state law for spending county tax funds on affordable housing, commissioners established a new Housing Advisory Board. The board will review housing projects funded through a recent $1 million general fund allocation managed in partnership with Cincinnati Development Fund.
Air Quality and Public Health Outreach
A resident voiced concerns regarding foul odors and potential building/zoning code violations from the Syntica plant, noting impacts across multiple neighborhoods and asking for county assistance.
Countywide Sustainability and Climate Planning
Hamilton County is partnering with Green Umbrella and summer fellows to build its first comprehensive countywide sustainability plan, aligning departments and improving communication with residents.
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.
Utility Assistance and Rising Energy Costs
Commissioners discussed the high cost of utility bills and the need for more funding and state action to protect residents from repeated rate hikes by Duke Energy.
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.
Elder Abuse Awareness and Prevention
The county prosecutor's office highlighted resources and hotlines for reporting elder abuse and financial exploitation, emphasizing the growing complexity of fraud cases targeting seniors.