Mahoning Valley Dems criticize Kasich's lack of supporting local governments

YOUNGSTOWN — State Rep. Mike O’Brien, who is a former Warren mayor, complained this afternoon that local governments are suffering from state funding cuts as the state maintains a $2.2 billion rainy-day fund as a surplus under the administration of Gov. John Kasich.

“He’s done that on the backs of the local communities. At a time when we have a heroin epidemic nationwide, now’s not the time to cut funds for police departments and sheriff’s departments,” said O’Brien, D-64th.

Tax “dollars that went to Columbus and came back with a formula based on population are now staying in Columbus, and they’re part of the rainy-day fund. Well, it’s pouring outside” statewide, O’Brien added.

“Communities now have to raise their own local taxes, and have increases in road levies, fire levies, and police levies, just to break even,” and compensate for the loss of state funds, he explained.

Mahoning Valley lawmakers and Mahoning County officials had a news conference today at the Mahoning County Engineer’s Office in advance of Gov. John Kasich’s Wednesday state of the state address in Marietta.

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