Ballot language at issue for Mahoning County sales tax

YOUNGSTOWN — Mahoning County Prosecutor Paul J. Gains wants the Ohio Secretary of State’s office to reconsider its ban on the word “renewal” in sales-tax ballot language.

Gains made his request today after receiving a letter from Atty. Michael Rankin, assistant secretary of state, informing him of the prohibition.

Despite being told of Rankin’s letter by George J. Tablack, county administrator, the commissioners unanimously passed a last-minute resolution Thursday, captioning the half-percent sales tax measure they are putting on the May 4 primary ballot as a “renewal and continuation.”

Thursday was the filing deadline for primary candidates and ballot issues to appear on the spring ballot.

The county board of elections will write the ballot language, subject to final approval by Jennifer Brunner, Ohio secretary of state.

“It’s the commissioners’ intent to make sure that the people of Mahoning County know that this is a renewal and continuation of the existing half-percent sales tax,” said Commissioner John A. McNally IV.

For the complete story, see Friday's Vindicator and Vindy.com