Mansfield Times

The Ohio House of Representatives has passed Substitute House Bill 2, which will allocate $350 million from the Strategic Community Investment Fund to various projects across Ohio. State Rep. Melanie Miller (R-Ashland) made the announcement, stating that this one-time funding will be used for statewide, regional, and local initiatives. Notably, nearly $1.3 million of this investment will directly benefit Ashland and Medina Counties.

Expressing her enthusiasm, Miller said, "I am delighted to see these projects coming to the 67th District. These investments in our community will have an impact for years to come."

Among the provisions introduced by Miller that will positively affect Ashland and Medina Counties are:

- $1,000,000 to modernize the Ashland County Fairgrounds and construct a new Mozelle Hall.

- $200,000 to build The Davy McClure Outdoor Education Shelter in the Ashland County Park District, providing an educational resource for the community.

- $36,834 to install tornado sirens at the Homer Township Community Center.

- $30,000 to renovate the Rowsburg Community Center, creating a space for residents to gather.

- $25,000 to expand sidewalks in Hayesville, connecting the southern portion of the village.

In addition to these local investments, Sub. House Bill 2 includes significant statewide capital allocations, including:

- $600 million for the School Building Program Assistance Fund.

- $400 million for the Public Works Commission Local Public Infrastructure and State Capital Improvement Program.

- $397.6 million for higher education projects across Ohio.

- $250 million for local jail construction.

The Strategic Community Investment Fund was established in the state's main operating budget last year and includes excess funding from the previous fiscal year. The Ohio House's prudent fiscal management has enabled the allocation of this surplus towards projects that will advance Ohio's development.

This funding will be incorporated into the greater State Capital Budget bill, a two-year construction budget for capital projects.