The Board of Park Commissioners for Summit Metro Parks at their May 12, 2026 meeting approved a resolution supporting the public education efforts of Ohioans to Protect Public Service — a broad, bipartisan coalition of over 65 organizations — in their effort to inform residents of the implications of eliminating property taxes in Ohio. The resolution reads:
Resolution 58.2026: RESOLUTION APPROVING SUPPORT OF OHIOANS TO PROTECT PUBLIC SERVICES’ PUBLIC EDUCATION PROGRAM REGARDING PROPERTY TAXES
WHEREAS, the Summit Metro Parks, representing more than 5 million visitors annually, provides essential services to communities throughout Summit County, including more than 800 free programs annually, free community events and access to 16 developed parks for experiencing a connection to nature in clean and safe parks; and
WHEREAS, property taxes are a primary source of funding for these services; and
WHEREAS, eliminating this funding would result in removal of 90% of our budget and possible elimination of services, programs and access to some park areas, as well as jeopardizing public safety services, schools, and services for seniors, children, and vulnerable residents; and
WHEREAS, the loss of property tax revenue could require significant increases in income taxes, sales taxes, or other statewide taxes, shifting the burden rather than solving it; and
WHEREAS, while property taxes are a serious concern for many Ohioans, eliminating them entirely without a responsible alternative is a reckless and unsustainable approach;
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Summit Metro Parkssupports the efforts of the Ohioans to Protect Public Services in undertaking public education informing residents of the consequences of property tax elimination; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Summit Metro Parks supports responsible property tax reform that addresses affordability concerns while protecting public safety, schools, metro parks, libraries, zoos, support for senior citizens and other critical community services; and
BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED that a copy of this Resolution shall be transmitted to the Governor of Ohio, members of the Ohio General Assembly, and other appropriate officials.
Adopted this 12th day of May 2026.
“It is imperative that residents understand how property taxes fund critical services and quality of life organizations in our county. While rising tax costs are a serious concern, eliminating property taxes will defund the park district and lead to cuts in programming and open park areas,” said Executive Director Lisa King. “Our goal is to support public education surrounding this important and timely topic.”
Property taxes comprise about 90% of the park district’s annual budget. The park district’s property-tax-funded levy was last passed by 73% approval in April 2020. The annual cost per $100,000 property valuation is $60.54.