House Passes Representative Merrin's Legislation Supporting Ohioans in Property Tax Disputes

The Ohio House of Representatives passed legislation introduced by State Rep. Derek Merrin (R-Monclova) focusing on requiring local governments providing notice to residents before a challenge can be filed to change their property value resulting in a tax increase. Also, the legislation requires a legislative body to officially vote to approve a resolution authorizing the complaint.

“This legislation ensures local governments use due diligence and are transparent before filing property valuation complaints,” said Merrin.

Before House Bill 75 passed, Merrin gave a speech explaining to his colleagues that the bill requires a simple notice of a legislative body - this notice, for example, could come from a school board. The notice would then be sent to an individual pertaining to their property value before a Board of Revision complaint is filed.

“This ensures elected officials are acutely aware of complaints being filed by their districts, and can be held accountable for their decisions,” said Merrin. “Also, it ensures property owners have proper notice, so they have the ability to reach out to their elected representatives before a decision is made regarding their properties. Currently, they get notified after the complaint has been filed.”

With Ohio being one of the thirteen states that allow local governments to challenge property values, the Council of State Taxation, representing over 500 major corporations, has publicly downgraded Ohio’s business climate due to the Board of Revision process. And, the abuses against businesses and commercial property owners throughout the state.

“With proper notification, I believe a thoughtful dialogue will take place between citizens and their elected officials, which is why this legislation is important,” said Merrin.

Other organizations that support this legislation include: Ohio Chamber of Commerce, Realtors Association of Ohio, Council on State Taxation, Auditors Association of Ohio, Ohio Real Estate Investors Association, and the Ohio Apartment Association, and many developers.