Youngstown Times

The Ohio House of Representatives has passed the Strategic Community Investment Fund, a historic initiative aimed at funding statewide, regional, and local projects. With a total budget of $350 million, this fund includes an allocation of over $4.2 million for the 79th District. State Rep. Monica Robb Blasdel, who represents Columbiana County, announced the approval of the fund as part of Substitute House Bill 2.

Robb Blasdel expressed her enthusiasm for the fund, stating, "From keeping our community safe, to investing in our facilities, and strengthening our workforce, this one-time funding will strengthen our region, and the rest of Ohio, for generations to come. These projects are transformational to our communities."

Thanks to responsible fiscal management, Robb Blasdel was able to secure significant funding for various projects in Columbiana and Carroll Counties. These include $2.9 million for the construction of a new Columbiana County Drug Task Force building, $500,000 for enhancements at the Seven Ranges Scout Reservation, $200,000 for downtown Minerva's revitalization, $200,000 for the Carroll County Agricultural Service Center, $250,000 for a new fire station and EMS facility in Hanover Township, and $175,000 for the restoration of the historic Lepper Library in Lisbon.

In addition to these local investments, the Strategic Community Investment Fund also allocates substantial funding for statewide capital projects. This includes $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 the state, and $250 million for local jail construction.

These investments will be integrated into the State Capital Budget bill, a two-year construction budget for capital projects. The approval of the Strategic Community Investment Fund reflects Ohio's commitment to strengthening communities, enhancing infrastructure, and supporting various sectors such as education and public safety.

The passage of this fund marks a significant milestone for Ohio, as it ensures the allocation of much-needed resources for vital projects across the state. With these investments, Ohio is poised to experience long-term benefits that will positively impact its residents and communities for years to come.