Hamilton County · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Hamilton County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Delinquent sewer charges at former St. Bernard Soap site
MSD certified $4.79 million in unpaid sewer charges at 5177 Spring Grove Avenue — after the owner paid off an earlier $2.7 million certification. Reece pressed MSD to chase delinquents earlier, before bills hit the millions.
Job and Family Services Budget Reductions and Miscommunication
JFS projects it will blow past its $157 million 2026 children's services budget (driven by placement costs heading to $172 million), and a memo suggested invoices for November and December work may not be processed until 2027. Vice President Reece pushed hard for prompt payment to small group-home providers; Administrator Aluotto and JFS Director Bob Anderson agreed to meet the same day and thread the needle.
Children Services Levy and Funding
Commissioners repeatedly tied the JFS budget squeeze to Issue 10, the children's services property tax levy on the November ballot, warning that a failed levy means general fund cuts ahead. Early voting turnout in Hamilton County is reportedly leading the state.
Hillcrest wellness campus lease with Talbert House
Talbert House will run the wellness campus at the old Hillcrest Training School for $1 a year, but Reece flagged that the county stays on the hook for security, maintenance and first-year capital — a five-year lease signed before future capital costs are settled.
Domestic Violence Awareness & Support
Wrapping up Domestic Violence Awareness Month, Summerow Dumas reported domestic violence incidents up 60% year over year and highlighted nearly $3.5 million in new Governor DeWine public safety grants available to local agencies.
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.
Down Syndrome Awareness Month Proclamation
The county formally recognized Down Syndrome Awareness Month, highlighting the Down Syndrome Association of Greater Cincinnati's work since 1981, including smart homes that let people with Down syndrome live independently.
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.
County Budget Adjustments and Facility Investments
The county is moving forward with Phase 2 of the Regional Safety Complex by awarding a $22.79 million construction contract and approving an $11.27 million budget adjustment. This project will replace the outdated gun range in Evendale and provide a modern training facility for law enforcement, though total project costs have grown to $50.9 million due to inflation and regulatory delays.
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.
Disaster Recovery Assistance for Storm Victims
Recent severe storms have caused widespread flash flooding, property damage, and tragic fatalities across Hamilton County. Officials are evaluating drainage limits, sewer backups, and potential federal grant applications to fund long-term stormwater remediation.
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.
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.