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Columbiana tax initiative filed by deadline
By D.A. WILKINSON
SALEM
An initiative petition to reinstate the 1 percent tax credit for city residents who pay income taxes in another community made it to the Columbiana County Board of Elections before Wednesday’s 4 p.m. deadline.
The initiative was started by Columbiana County Republican Party Chairman David Johnson of Salem, who had voiced his dismay over actions of the Republicans who have the majority on council.
Council had voted to eliminate the credit to gain more revenue, but Johnson pointed out that city revenue is up.
Johnson could not be reached to comment.
Council on Tuesday passed a motion that it would reinstate the tax credit.
Council also passed a motion to change the city’s funding split. For many years, 85 percent of revenue went to operating expenses and 15 percent went to capital projects.
Under council’s motion, 65 percent of city revenue would be used for operations and the rest would go for capital projects.
Councilman Dennis Groves suggested that legislation be prepared before the Nov. 2 election. That would allow the motions to become signed ordinances if the voters approve the measure.
Six council members agreed to the plan, including newcomer John Berlin. He had been named by Republicans to replace Joe Radin, who was in his first term but moved from Salem. Councilman David Nestic was not at the meeting.