Mansfield Times

State Representative Melanie Miller and Thomas Hall presented testimony in support of House Bill 304, aimed at forming a bipartisan commission to tackle municipal issues throughout Ohio. The proposed commission would encourage collaboration between state legislators and local leaders to identify and address challenges facing municipalities.

"The establishment of this commission would ensure that the voices of our municipal leaders and their communities are heard, helping us craft thoughtful policies that strengthen Ohio’s cities and towns," said Miller.

The commission, if formed, would include 13 members appointed to maintain partisan balance. Members would consist of:

- The Director of Development or the Director’s designee, who will serve as chairperson.

- Four appointees by the Governor: two mayors (or designees) from municipalities with populations over 60,000 and two from those under 60,000.

- Two appointees by the Senate President: one General Assembly member and one mayor or municipal executive.

- Two appointees by the Senate Minority Leader: one General Assembly member and one mayor or municipal executive.

- Two appointees by the Speaker of the House: one General Assembly member and one mayor or municipal executive.

- Two appointees by the House Minority Leader: one General Assembly member and one mayor or municipal executive.

Members will have two-year terms with meetings held at least twice annually. A biennial report will be submitted by January 29th every odd-numbered year, offering recommendations for the General Assembly and summarizing legislation on home rule and municipal authority. House Bill 304 is set for further hearings in the House State & Local Government Committee.