The Wood County Board of Health recently changed its decision about wages for health department staff. After a meeting, the board agreed to give step increases to eligible employees starting from February 22. These increases will be supported by the general revenue fund.
However, the usual Cost of Living Adjustments (COLA) are still off the table. Just months earlier, on December 31, the board had decided to freeze wages citing concerns over potential cuts to property tax revenues that many public services rely on in Ohio.
Health Commissioner Ben Robison explained in January that the department usually follows annual raises set by the Wood County Commissioners. But due to worries about property tax cuts, the board chose not to match the county’s anticipated 3% raises for 2026. Robison emphasized the need to maintain services and manage the budget carefully.
Interestingly, property taxes, often disliked by the public, are actually a stable source of funding for local governments. They support critical services like public schools and emergency response teams. With ongoing efforts to place an issue on the ballot to eliminate property taxes in Ohio, public officials are looking for alternative funding solutions.
Dr. Tom Milbrodt and Dr. Bob Midden, board members who missed the earlier vote, argued against the wage freeze. Milbrodt noted that the state has been gradually reducing support for local governments over the past 50 years, and he felt that staff deserved their raises without jeopardizing the budget.
As it stands, the Wood County Health Department relies on around $2 million in property tax revenues each year, which constitutes about 20% of its budget. This funding comes from a mix of village and township millage and a 10-year levy passed in 2020.
Looking ahead, discussions are underway about what might replace property tax revenue if it is eliminated. Lawmakers are considering increasing sales or income taxes, which would shift the burden onto individuals rather than businesses.
In short, the board is working toward a more stable future while balancing the needs of their employees and the community.
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