Cleveland Residents Push for Property Tax Reform Amid County Incompetencies and Rising Costs
CLEVELAND, OH — Frustrated homeowners across Ohio are rallying for property tax reform, citing rising assessments that some claim are driving them out of their homes. The grassroots effort, spearheaded by Citizens for Property Tax Reform, is calling for a constitutional amendment to overhaul the state's property tax system. Advocates must gather 460,000 signatures to bring their proposal to the ballot.
During a recent meeting at the Hungarian Reformed Church West Side conference center, residents shared their struggles with escalating tax bills. A South Euclid homeowner recounted how their tax burden tripled shortly after purchasing their home. "Every year it increases, and I cannot afford upkeep as it is. Meanwhile, the city is focused on fines for minor issues like yard debris, rather than addressing systemic problems," they said.
Lawmakers Divided Over Solutions
The push for reform comes as the Ohio General Assembly debates the future of property tax policy. A special committee tasked with studying the issue released a report in late 2024, outlining 21 recommendations but failing to reach a consensus on specific measures. Proposals range from state-funded tax relief for seniors and low-income households to local spending cuts and increased government transparency.
State Rep. Tom Young, R-Washington Twp., opposes using state funds for relief, arguing that local governments should address excessive spending. "Local and county governments, including schools, are addicted to property tax and need to go to rehab," Young said, emphasizing the need for stricter oversight of local tax levies.
Conversely, Sen. Bill Blessing, R-Colerain Twp., supports targeted, state-funded relief. He introduced a "circuit breaker" proposal offering refundable tax credits to low-income homeowners whose property taxes exceed 5% of their income. The plan, which failed to pass last session, would cost the state nearly $820 million annually.
Democratic lawmakers, including Rep. Bride Rose Sweeney of Cleveland, have criticized past state actions that reduced property tax relief programs and local government funding. In a joint statement, Sweeney and Rep. Dan Troy, D-Willowick, called for restoring the 12.5% property tax rollback, enhancing the homestead exemption, and adopting income-based rebates.
Local Challenges
While state lawmakers debate broad reforms, Cuyahoga County leaders recently rejected a proposal to reduce property tax rates, citing budget constraints. County officials argued that the move would have minimal benefits for homeowners while significantly reducing revenue.
Michael Chambers, the county’s chief fiscal officer, explained that a general reduction would save residents an average of just $17 to $25 annually, with wealthier communities benefitting disproportionately. Instead, the county is developing a pilot program to provide targeted assistance to seniors earning less than $70,000 annually.
"The recent reappraisal exacerbated property tax inequities across the county," said County Councilman Dale Miller. "We need targeted strategies to provide help where it is most needed while maintaining essential services."
Advocates Call for Change
Advocates argue that Ohio's reliance on property taxes has created a system that disproportionately affects vulnerable populations. Many homeowners feel that their tax dollars fail to translate into improved services, with one South Euclid resident describing years of billing errors and unresolved penalties.
As lawmakers and local officials weigh potential solutions, the grassroots movement for reform continues to gain momentum. Organizers hope the constitutional amendment effort will force the General Assembly to take meaningful action.
