Empower Releases 2025 Empowering America's Financial Journey Report
Empower has released its 2025 Empowering America's Financial Journey report, highlighting the retirement plan features and participant behaviors in the public sector that lead to stronger retirement readiness. Based on data from more than 6.5 million retirement plan participants, the report concludes that employee engagement, simple plan design, automatic enrollment, shorter vesting schedules, and access to professional financial guidance all contribute to better retirement outcomes.
The Ohio County Employee Retirement Plan continues to provide innovative, participant-focused retirement services that help Ohio's county employees prepare for a more secure financial future.
The findings in the Empower reinforce many of the strategies already emphasized by the Ohio County Employee Retirement Plan. Employees who actively engage with their retirement plans are significantly more likely to save at higher rates and make better long-term investment decisions. The report also highlights the importance of ongoing education and personalized financial guidance to help participants make informed decisions throughout their careers.
If your county is interested in increasing employee engagement and learning more about the resources available through the Ohio County Employee Retirement Plan, please contact Steve Caraway at scaraway@ccao.org or Lori Baldridge at lbaldridge@ccao.org. They can work with your county to provide additional education, outreach, and support for your employees.
CCAO staff visits agrivoltaics research site
CCAO staff recently toured Savion's Madison Fields Solar Project in Madison County, Ohio. The tour highlighted the site's “agrivoltaics” research partnership with The Ohio State University, which evaluates crop yields and agricultural productivity for hay, alfalfa, soybeans, corn and other production crops grown between the solar arrays.
The project also expects to incorporate sheep grazing later this year in an effort to further demonstrate the compatibility of solar development and agricultural use.
Additional information about the project is available on OSU Extension's website.
Ohio Supreme Court releases documentary on county courthouses
The Ohio Supreme Court, as part of the American 250 celebrations, has released a documentary about the role that county courthouses play in the state and local communities. The documentary, Where Justice Settled: The Story of Ohio’s 88 County Courthouse, is available here.
The following is an excerpt from an article on the Supreme Court's Court News Ohio website about the documentary.
Foundations of Justice on the Frontier
Long before they became architectural landmarks, Ohio’s courthouses began as simple, practical spaces. Places where communities gathered to resolve disputes, record land sales, and establish order. In the earliest days of the Northwest Territory, justice unfolded in log cabins, taverns, and borrowed rooms. Yet even in these modest settings, the idea of the courthouse, a central and public place for law and governance, took root.
As Ohio’s counties were established, these spaces became permanent. By 1851, all 88 counties had formed, and with them came a shared need: a courthouse. These buildings were not incidental. They were essential anchors for county government and visible expressions of a growing commitment to law, order, and democratic process.
Built on Democratic Ideals
From their earliest permanent forms, Ohio’s courthouses were designed to stand out. Often the most prominent building in a county, especially in rural communities, each courthouse was intentionally monumental. Built of stone, brick, and materials drawn directly from the land, they embodied stability and permanence.
The courthouse became more than a workplace for judges and clerks. It symbolized the rule of law and the principle that justice should be carried out openly, where all could see. Decisions made inside these walls shaped lives, resolved conflicts, and defined communities. The building itself signaled that justice belonged to the people.
Designed to Reflect the Communities They Serve
Each of Ohio’s 88 county courthouses tells a unique story. Their forms, features, and even small details reflect the people they serve.
In Holmes County, where nearly half the population is Amish, the courthouse has adapted in ways that reflect local customs. Hat racks are built into seating for broad-brimmed hats, and horse parking remains part of daily life. In Harrison County, the influence of coal mining is evident in community traditions that revolve around the courthouse square, including festivals that celebrate the region’s industrial heritage.
Inside, courtrooms carry their own distinct identities. Some have remained virtually unchanged for more than a century, preserving the layout and character of earlier eras. Others feature unusual elements, such as rolling jury boxes that bring participants physically closer to the proceedings, reinforcing the immediacy of justice.
These differences highlight a central truth. While the purpose of courthouses is shared, their character is deeply local.
University of Michigan seeking participants for research study on utility-scale solar development
The University of Michigan is seeking county officials and staff who have experience with utility-scale solar energy projects, with a particular interest in speaking with individuals involved in planning, zoning, permitting, economic development, infrastructure, public works, public engagement, emergency services, road departments, or related decision-making processes.
The study is intended to help local government officials across the county understand how to navigate the complicated factors of community perspectives and economic development considerations.
Interviews will be conducted virtually, last approximately 60–75 minutes, and participation is voluntary and confidential.
Participants may receive a $100 gift card as a thank-you for their time, subject to any applicable workplace or ethics policies.
If you are interested in participating, please complete this brief form. You may also contact Uthman Olagoke, Design Science Ph.D. Candidate, directly at uthmano@umich.edu.
Additional information about the research is available here. Top Top NACo is urging counties to submit comments on federal Uniform Guidance changes by the July 13 deadline
The proposed rewrite of the Uniform Guidance (2 CFR Part 200) would affect every county that receives, administers and passes through federal grant funding. This includes new conditions on every federal award, expanded agency authority to terminate or suspend grants mid-project, new screening and disclosure requirements and more (at the same time that compliance requirements and costs would go up). These changes would go into effect October 1, 2026.
NACo has developed an OMB Resource Hub to help your members navigate this, including:
We are strongly encouraging county attorneys and grants managers to review the proposed rule and their current grant portfolios now, before October 1, when changes take effect for new and renewed awards.
Two weeks left to submit tract information for Opportunity Zones 2.0 process
Created by Congress in 2017, Opportunity Zones are federally designated, economically distressed census tracts that encourage private investment through targeted tax incentives. Investors who direct capital into qualifying projects within these communities may be eligible for federal tax benefits, helping spur economic development and revitalization.
After Congress made the program permanent last year, zones will be redesignated every 10 years. The next designation cycle begins July 1, 2026, when governors across the country will have a 90-day window to nominate eligible census tracts. Newly designated Opportunity Zones will take effect January 1, 2027, and remain in place through December 31, 2036.
Due to changes in eligibility criteria, some of Ohio’s original zones will lose their status.
There are 1,032 eligible census tracts in Ohio that meet federal requirements for consideration. Governor DeWine may nominate up to 258 tracts (25%) by September 2026 for designation by the US Department of the Treasury as Qualified Opportunity Zones beginning January 1, 2027.
To help inform those nominations, the Ohio Department of Development is seeking recommendations on which eligible tracts should be prioritized. Communities should consider factors such as the tract's importance to local master plans and the types of development intended for those areas, the existence of project-ready infrastructure, and previous state and federal investments made within the tract area.
The Department of Development's survey seeking information about eligible tracts can be accessed here. Please complete it by July 10. Top 2026 Innovation Summit to be held on July 30
The Ohio Innovation and Technology Association (OITA) will hold the 2026 Innovation Summit on Thursday, July 30, in Columbus.
The Summit, which traditionally includes cabinet directors, legislative leaders, local government officials, and private sector leaders, will have a focus on artificial intelligence this year.
Planned topics include:
- The State of AI
- AI Impact on Private Industry Sectors
- AI Demos from OITA Partners
- Data Centers & Energy Solutions
- AI Policy Discussions
- AI Deployment in Government
Registration for the event is open and accessible here. Registration costs $200 for OITA members, partners, event sponsors, and non-profits and local governments. The full registration price of $450 will apply to private sector attendees who are not OITA members, partners, or event sponsors.
State funding opportunities
The table below contains current state grant or loan programs. A more comprehensive list can be found on the Ohio Grants Partnership webpage.
Grant Program
|
Brief Summary
|
Eligibility Criteria
|
Amount Available
|
Application Due Date
|
| Violence Against Women Act Grant Program |
To fund local programs aimed at reducing violent crimes against women and assisting victims. |
Counties, law enforcement agencies, and other local governments
|
Max award: $60,000
Local match of at least 25%
|
July 7, 2026 |
| Ohio Developmental Disabilities Council Grant Programs |
A grouping of 16 individual programs intended to increase the quality of life of Ohioans with developmental disabilities. |
Broad availability, but entities serving individuals with developmental disabilities are best suited |
Varies by program, but all require a match of at least 33% |
July 10, 2026 |
| Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program |
To provide funding for initiatives, technical assistance, training, personnel, equipment, supplies, contractual support, and information systems in support of specified program areas. |
Counties and other local governments |
Max award: $150,000
Local match required
|
July 21, 2026 |
| Shine a Light on Dumpers Program |
To assist local governments in cleaning existing solid-waste dump sites and to take preventative action to deter future dumping. |
Counties and other local governments |
Max awards: $100,000 (clean-up projects);
$20,000 (deterrence projects)
|
July 31, 2026 |
Federal funding opportunities
The table below contains a sampling of current federal grant or loan programs. A full list can be found on Grants.gov.
Grant Program
|
Brief Summary
|
Eligibility Criteria
|
Amount Available
|
Application Due Date
|
| Great Lakes Restoration Initiative – Joint Venture Habitat Restoration and Protection |
To assist in the protection, restoration, or enhancement of migratory bird habitats within the Great Lakes coastal zone. Particular focus on projects that address declining habitat types. |
General availability among entities along the Great Lakes, with favor for projects within 15 miles of the coastline |
$800,000 available
Local match of at least 25%
|
July 6, 2026 |
| Pilot Program for Transit-Oriented Development Planning |
To fund comprehensive or site-specific planning studies that will enhance economic development and enable mixed-use development, among other specifications. |
General availability |
$24.5 million available
Local match of at least 20%
|
July 10, 2026 |
| Automated Permitting Systems Demonstration Grant |
To support jurisdictions that will deploy automated building code permitting systems and partner with HUD to evaluate their applicability and effectiveness within real-world operating conditions. |
General availability |
$3 million available
No match requirement
|
July 13, 2026 |
| Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) Hiring Program |
To assist law enforcement agencies in hiring and/or rehiring career sworn law enforcement officers to assist in community policing capacity and crime prevention efforts. |
General availability for entities with law enforcement functions |
$157.6 million available, maximum award of $6.3 million
Local match of at least 25%
|
July 23, 2026 |
| Workforce Opportunity for Rural Communities Grants |
To support partnerships that will design and implement industry-driven training programs that will close skills gaps and boost the talent pipeline in critical sectors. |
General availability for entities within the jurisdiction of the Appalachian Regional Commission |
$49.2 million available
No match requirement
|
July 23, 2026 |
| COPS Law Enforcement Mental Health and Wellness Program |
To provide LEAs that do not have established law enforcement-specifc mental health and wellness programing with start-up funds to establish those supports. |
General availability for entities with law enforcement functions |
$9 million available
No match requirement
|
July 30, 2026 |
| Continuum of Care and Youth Homelessness Program |
To provide funding to enable the quick rehousing of homeless individuals, families, and other vulnerable populations. |
General availability |
$4 billion available
Local match of at least 25%
|
August 26, 2026 |
| Title X Family Planning Services Grants |
To promote the general family planning programs and goals under Title X of the Public Health Service Act. |
General availability |
Maximum award: $22 million
Local match of between 1% and 10%
|
January 9, 2027 |
Top Each week Counties Current highlights the happenings in our counties in the words of their local media.
One story from each of the CCAO's five districts is highlighted, and on occasion other stories may be highlighted as well.
A paid subscription may be required to view the full article in some cases.
Northwest District
Defiance commissioners discuss renewable energy with group
Crescent News, June 22, 2026
Representatives of a property owners advocacy group met with Defiance County commissioners Monday to discuss renewable energy projects.
A former Paulding County commissioner, Tony Zartman of Ohio Land & Liberty Coalition, brought two new representatives with him — Megan Crist and Carissa Schroeder — who are meeting with local officials and learning about the issues concerning property rights and renewable energy.
They wanted to know county commissioners’ take on the matter.
Commissioner Dana Phipps was not in attendance and new Commissioner Matt Koester said he has focused on other issues as he is becoming more familiar with county business. That left Commissioner Mick Pocratsky to do most of the talking, but he noted that he was expressing his own views.
Pocratsky recalled how proposed solar projects in Defiance County unfolded. (No wind projects have been proposed.)
Construction of one near Mark Center is well underway while one near Sherwood was turned down by the Ohio Power Siting Board amidst strong opposition and one south of Hicksville into Paulding County has been put on hold, or is no longer on the table.
Pocratsky noted that under the new state law concerning solar and wind projects (Senate Bill 52), the county’s township trustees were asked where they would like to see solar and wind projects go. However, commissioners only received direction from a couple of them.
While respecting property owners’ rights to do what they want on their land, Pocratsky questioned renewable energy projects based on the federal subsidies they receive, allowing companies involved in their development to make a profit. If they can’t be profitable on their own, he doesn’t want his taxpayer dollars going to them.
“If it can’t stand on its own, why does it exist?” Pocratsky asked.
Later, addressing the subsidy issue, Zartman observed that oil and gas companies also receive subsidies from the federal government.
Northeast District
Geauga County again rejects property tax breaks: ‘Still a hard no’
Cleveland.com, June 23, 2026
Geauga County commissioners again rejected two homeowner property tax exemptions Tuesday after schools and other local agencies warned the tax breaks would reduce revenue for public services.
The decision keeps Geauga County from joining a handful of Ohio counties that have adopted the new tax breaks, which were made available for the first time last year. The exemptions help homeowners hit by rising property tax bills, but they also mean less revenue for schools, libraries and other local agencies.
Geauga County school officials made that case again Tuesday, and commissioners ultimately took no formal action, leaving in place their November decision to reject both exemptions.
“This was a hard no for us in November,” Commissioner Ralph Spidalieri said. “It’s still a hard no for me today.”
The issue returned to the commissioners’ agenda because counties have until June 30 each year to adopt the exemptions for the following tax year.
Commissioners turned down the same proposal last fall, when county officials estimated the exemptions would cost schools and local governments about $7 million a year.
School officials have led much of the opposition.
At a June 16 commissioners meeting, Bruce Willingham Jr., superintendent of Kenston Local Schools, spoke on behalf of all five Geauga County school districts, urging commissioners to maintain their previous position.
Willingham said commissioners had already determined last year that the exemptions were a “bad fit” for Geauga County and warned they could reduce revenue from voter-approved levies and force local governments and school districts to seek additional funding from voters.
Central District
Concerned Citizens of Morrow County hears from ODOT
Morrow County Sentinel, June 24, 2026
On June 15 at the Morrow County Fairgrounds in Mount Gilead, more than 120 people attended a Concerned Citizens of Morrow County (CCMC) meeting in which the group received a response from the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) in a printed update concerning the proposed U.S. 23 to I-71 Connector Feasibility Study.
The ODOT update, titled “What We Heard and What Comes Next,” followed the group’s letter writing blitz in April. CCMC Co-founder Wes Goodman reported there were 5,400 letters mailed to residences and businesses located on or near the path of the proposed bypass/connector across southern Morrow and Marion counties between U.S. 23 and I-71. ODOT received 600 letters as a result of the mailing. In its April update, ODOT said it had “received a total of more than 2,000 comments reflecting how important this issue is to the communities involved.”
“Your feedback is not only being reviewed and documented but is actively being used to refine potential alignments. Public comments consistently raised concerns related to farmland preservation, impacts to homes and rural communities, environmental resources, emergency access, and the importance of improving US-23 …,” the update states.
Morrow County Commissioner Tim Abraham spoke briefly about the commissioners’ talks with state Sen. Bill Reineke about their opposition to the proposed bypass route in the county.
“We told Reineke, ‘It just doesn’t make sense,’” Abraham said, adding he believes Reineke is being pressured by the people in Toledo and Tiffin to support and approve the bypass.
Goodman and CCMC Co-founder Vicki Kerman said the committee is talking to ODOT about improving U.S. 23 in the most congested area from I-270 to Waldo as well as work needed on other Ohio highways. Kerman noted there’s already a plan which has been developed for U.S. 23, but it has not been implemented.
Kerman and the committee delivered a position paper to ODOT called “Understanding the US-23 to I-71 Connector Study.” The 24-page study provides the history and background for the proposed bypass/connector as well as letters opposing the bypass from county, township, school districts, and village officials followed by petition signatures.
Southwest District
Warren County approves sales tax increase to offset property tax relief
WCPO, June 25, 2026
For the next year, Warren County homeowners will see a break on property taxes, but it comes at the cost of a temporary higher sales tax.
The Warren County Board of Commissioners unanimously voted Tuesday to raise the county sales tax by 0.5% for the next year. The increase takes effect Oct. 1.
The decision came after three public hearings. Commissioners say a study by the University of Cincinnati found that between 50% and 60% of the dollars spent in the county come from people who do not live there, meaning the tax increase will fall primarily on visitors spending at destinations like Kings Island and the Cincinnati Outlet Mall.
"We're trying to leverage what other folks come into the county and spend, to the benefit of our residents. That's literally everything in a nutshell of what we're trying to do," Commissioner David Young said.
The increased sales tax will generate an extra $50 for every $10,000 spent. Homeowners with a property appraised at $300,000 will save about $470 in taxes. The property tax change will be reflected in the next round of tax bills.
Starting Oct. 1, the half-percent increase means shoppers will pay one cent more on a $2 cup of coffee. On a $30,000 car purchase, buyers will pay an additional $150.
Southeast District
Guernsey County sees proposal for a data center
WOUB, June 23, 2026
Guernsey County could join nearly a dozen other counties in the region expecting a data center development.
But if a development moves forward, it’ll do so without the support of county commissioners.
“I would say the people have spoken,” Commissioner Jack Marlin said. “They’re against data centers. We said we were against it. So I don’t see how we come back from that.”
It’s a break away from surrounding counties, where local officials have generally supported data center developments believing they will provide economic benefits — sometimes sparking backlash from residents.
The proposal was first made public during a June 9 presentation to county commissioners by local real estate agent Jason Miller and chief executive officer of Smart Energy Partners Rich Stokey.
Smart Energy assesses and coordinates site and power acquisition for data centers and is advising Miller, who has 425 acres in the county he might develop.
Right now, Stokey said they are just evaluating the potential for a data center in the county and wanted to gauge the commissioners’ interest.
Guernsey does not have countywide zoning. That means the commissioners have no approval or regulatory authority over any development in the county, if it takes place on private land.
They would have a say over any property tax abatements that come before them for approval.
A data center could still be subject to municipal zoning depending on the location. Top JULY 3
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Independence Day, America's 250th Birthday
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CEBCO Board of Directors Meeting Top
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