Storm damage makes tax relief available

YOUNGSTOWN -- Property owners may claim a reduction in the taxable value of their property if it has been destroyed or damaged in the recent severe storms that hit the area, Mahoning County Auditor George J. Tablack said today.
Ohio law permits property owners to claim the reduction at any time, regardless of the cause of damage, he said. The amount of reduction would be prorated based on the calendar quarter in which the damage occurred.
Property owners must file an application with the county auditor for a reduction no later than Dec. 31 in the year that the damage occurred. Refunds or credits may be available, he said.
"With the tremendous storm damage recently, the residents of Mahoning County deserve the relief that this law provides," Tablack said. "This law provides quick and effective property tax relief to those homeowners during this time of need."