Mayor, Council Oppose ‘One-Size-Fits-All’ Tax Plan

The measure that was House Bill 601 has been re-introduced in the Ohio Legislature with a new name.

But, Lakewood City Council still doesn’t like it.

Council passed a resolution stating opposition to HB 5, a proposed law that would “gut the home-rule guarantees of the Ohio Constitution by imposing a state-mandated tax scheme on local governments.”

“That same attempt to crush cash-strapped towns like Lakewood is now being renewed in 2013 under House Bill 5,” council president Brian Powers said at the council meeting on Tuesday.

Along with the mayor, six out of seven of council members opposed the house bill. Ward 3 councilman Shawn Juris did not sign the resolution, however he has said he also opposes the proposal. 

The resolution was similar to one passed last year by council.

“It’s very app to oppose this, another effort to trespass on our home-rule,” said Ward 2 councilman Tom Bullock. “This is responsive thoughtful government, but frankly, a power grab, masquerading as streamlining through red tape.”