Cutrona, Ohio House Passes Strategic Community Investment Fund
COLUMBUS—The Ohio House of Representatives today approved the historic Strategic Community Investment Fund, as part of Substitute House Bill 2, announced State Rep. Al Cutrona (R-Canfield), who sponsored and drafted the legislation.
The Strategic Community Investment Fund includes $350 million for statewide, regional, and local projects. Additionally, this legislation invests $2 billion in Ohio’s future for generations to come.
“I am proud to sponsor this legislation to ensure that we are building a brighter Ohio,” said Cutrona. “My goal this general assembly was to bring back state dollars to communities throughout the state of Ohio, especially in areas of the state that are often overlooked. Whether it is investing in tourism, public safety, health and wellness of our citizens, or helping instill community pride, this one-time funding in the Mahoning Valley especially, will strengthen the region, and the rest of the Ohio, for generations to come.”
Cutrona championed several local provisions that will positively impact the Mahoning Valley region:
Over $10,000,000 for projects at Youngstown State University, preparing students for the future;
$2,900,000 for the construction of a new Columbiana County Drug Task Force building, ensuring our community is safe;
$1,500,000 to expand kennel, education, and training facilities for Animal Charity of Ohio;
$875,000 to build the new West Branch Regional Community Education and Wellness Training Center, that will provide educational and job training programs, recreational activities, and healthcare services;
$750,000 to construct a new facility and preserve buildings for the Mahoning Valley Historical Society;
$660,000 to construct a new access road in the city of Campbell;
$500,000 for construction at Seven Ranges Scout Reservation to enhance the camping experience;
$250,000 for the construction of a new fire station and EMS Facility for first responders to better serve Hanover Township and surrounding areas in Columbiana and Carroll County;
$175,000 to restore the historic Lepper Library, ensuring that the Lisbon community can continue to enjoy the facility for years to come.
$300,000 to renovate the primary runway and build additional hangars at the Salem Airpark;
$103,150 to construct a new splash pad at Mauthe Park, for children to enjoy;
$100,000 to renovate the Rich Center for Autism Building, expanding their ability to serve more residents;
$93,500 to establish multiple programs at the OCCHA, providing opportunities to enhance community well-being;
$60,000 to implement a new drone program for the Canfield Police Department, allowing police officers to better serve their communities;
$60,000 to renovate the War Vet Museum, providing educational opportunities for residents.
In addition to these local investments, this legislation also includes additional statewide capital investments of:
$600 million for the School Building Program Assistance Fund;
$400 million for the Public Works Commission Local Public Infrastructure and State Capital Improvement Program;
$397.6 million for higher education projects around the state; and
$250 million for local jail construction across Ohio.
These investments will be incorporated as part of the greater State Capital Budget bill, a two-year construction budget for capital projects.