Ohio needs simpler municipal tax system - Josh Mandel ,Ohio Treasurer - SIKE

Ohio needs simpler municipal tax system - Josh Mandel, Ohio Treasurer ( Columbus Dispatch April)

I'm Not sure I agree with Treasurer Mandel.  I think it depends on the language of HB 5, the devil will be in the details.
The Hang up I have, simply put, "Municipalities are Ohio Constitutional Animals" and have Home Rule Authority.
Municipalities carry out many local services, some of which are/or can be unique to there citizenry or locale. Municipalities need tools in their toolbox to properly fund the services there citizens demand. Local Government Fund (LGF) reducations and other redistribution from State to Local Government have negative impacts on foundational services. (See Beacon Journal Article)  As many Local Governments in Ohio, Municipalities had large cuts from the State of Ohio with the reductions of the Local Government Fund (LGF) "The Local Government Fund’s “Municipal Direct Fund” distributes revenue directly to 582 municipalities. These jurisdictions may expect to see this source reduced by $35 million, or 39 percent less in 2012-13 compared to 2010-11." 
Feel Free to Make up your own mind.
Jeremy


Read House Bill Five for yourself.

House Bill 5 - 130th General Assembly 2013-2014

There apparently has already been a web launch for Opposition of Ohio HB5
Ohio United - No on House Bill 5

Here is what the opposition has to say:

HB 5 seeks to 'simplify' the current 40 page tax code with 141 pages of new regulations affecting both municipalities and taxpayers.

HB 5 is a municipal tax bill co-sponsored by Ohio House Majority Whip Cheryl Grossman (R-Grove City) and Rep. Mike Henne (R-Vandalia). It was introduced to the Ohio General Assembly on January 30, 2013 with the proposed purpose of promoting uniformity and simplicity within Ohio’s municipal income tax structure while maintaining a degree of revenue neutrality for all municipalities involved.
The bill as presented falls short of its claimed objectives. If passed, HB 5 would introduce legislation detrimental to the financial stability of Ohio’s municipalities. By including unfunded mandates and calling for the needless application of complicated bureaucratic red tape, the bill would serve to cripple the ability of municipalities to provide basic services to both residents and resident businesses alike. There are also several instances within the bill where Ohio’s municipal “home rule” provisions are either threatened or rendered invalid.
This harmful bill is opposed by communities and organizations across the state. Within this website, you will find background information about the bill and Ohio’s municipal tax structure in general, data concerning HB 5’s financial impact on your community, and various ways to make your voice heard.
A municipal income tax system in Ohio that’s reasonable, simple, and revenue neutral is possible and attainable with the proper legislation. Help us oppose HB 5 and convince lawmakers to do what’s best for all of Ohio by demanding true uniformity in Ohio municipal income tax. http://ohmuniadvocates.com

Feel Free to Make up your own mind.
Jeremy