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Miller Introduces Legislation to Create Commission Focused on Helping Municipalities

January 22, 2025
Melanie Miller News

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COLUMBUS, OH – State Rep. Melanie Miller (R-City of Ashland) and Thomas Hall delivered sponsor testimony on House Bill 304, which would establish a bipartisan commission focused on addressing municipal issues across Ohio. 

“The establishment of this commission would ensure that the voices of our municipal leaders and their communities are heard, helping us craft thoughtful policies that strengthen Ohio’s cities and towns,” said Miller.

If established, the Commission would aim to foster collaboration between state legislators and local leaders to discuss, analyze, and recommend solutions for challenges affecting municipalities statewide.

The commission would consist of 13 members appointed to ensure partisan balance, including:

  • The Director of Development or the Director’s designee, serving as chairperson.
  • Four members appointed by the Governor, comprising:
    • Two mayors (or their designees) from municipal corporations with populations of 60,000 or more.
    • Two mayors (or their designees) from municipal corporations with populations under 60,000.
    • House Bill 304 will continue to receive hearings in the House State & Local Government Committee.
  • Two members appointed by the Senate President, consisting of:
    • One member of the General Assembly.
    • One mayor, municipal executive, or charter county executive.
  • Two members appointed by the Senate Minority Leader, consisting of:
    • One member of the General Assembly.
    • One mayor, municipal executive, or charter county executive.

  • Two members appointed by the Speaker of the House, consisting of:
    • One member of the General Assembly.
    • One mayor, municipal executive, or charter county executive.
  • Two members appointed by the House Minority Leader, consisting of:
    • One member of the General Assembly.
    • One mayor, municipal executive, or charter county executive. 

Members will serve two-year terms and meet at least twice annually. The commission will submit a biennial report by January 29th of each odd-numbered year, detailing recommendations for the General Assembly and summarizing legislation passed concerning home rule and municipal authority.