Kasich sales-tax hike concerns Mahoning Valley officials

YOUNGSTOWN — After Mahoning County struggled to get a 0.75 percent sales tax approved by voters, Commissioner David Ditzler said he’s “almost shocked” that Gov. John Kasich wants to increase the state’s sales tax by 0.5 percent and apply it to more services.

“Is he going to put it on the ballot?” Ditzler, a Democrat, sarcastically asked about the Republican governor.

State sales-tax increases need only the approval of the General Assembly.

The county’s sales tax increased by 0.25 percent — the tax measure approved by voters was for a 0.5 percent renewal and a 0.25 percent additional — on April 1.

If the state Legislature approves Kasich’s proposal, those buying taxable items in Mahoning County will pay 7.75 percent sales tax.

That’s 6.25 percent from the state, 1.25 percent from the county and 0.25 percent from the Western Reserve Transit Authority.

“The reaction from voters will be to vote against city and school levies because of the sales tax increasing,” Ditzler said. “To impose a 0.5 percent and put local governments in jeopardy is wrong.”

For the complete story, read Tuesday's Vindicator and Vindy.com