The Hamilton County Board of County Commissioners has unanimously approved a $389.7 million budget for 2025. The decision was made during a public meeting on December 12, 2024. The budget aims to prioritize core services and strategic investments amid financial challenges such as the expiration of federal pandemic relief funds, slower revenue growth, and inflation.
The 2025 budget is approximately $6 million less than the previous year due to nonrecurring expenses related to capital projects and the presidential election in 2024. Despite these reductions, essential services will be maintained, and efforts are being made to transition critical American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) programs to alternative funding sources.
Key ARPA-funded initiatives that will continue into 2025 include affordable housing, mental health services, economic development, workforce development, and childcare. Several programs like the Senior Utility Assistance Program and the INSPIRE Program will transition to sustainable funding sources such as levies.
Commission President Alicia Reece stated: “As we enter a period of transition, we successfully closed a $53 million gap, provided the full 30% property tax rollback, fully funded public safety, continued investments in affordable housing, expanded critical services like the 513Relief Bus, supported small business districts, economic development, and tourism.”
The budget also allocates $5 million annually for county infrastructure improvements. Projects include enhancements at the Hamilton County Regional Safety Complex and other facilities like Paycor Stadium and Great American Ballpark.
Public safety remains a priority with continued investments in law enforcement and emergency services aimed at modernizing facilities and improving response capabilities.
Community investments will exceed $2 million through partnerships aimed at driving infrastructure and economic development improvements. Commissioner Denise Driehaus commented: "By partnering with the community through local initiatives like the Community Revitalization Grant...we will enhance our community's reputation and drive economic growth."
Technology improvements are part of strategic investments intended to drive efficiency across various sectors including public safety where enhanced camera technology was installed in 2024.
Core services such as public safety and social services remain prioritized while taxation levels stay unchanged from previous years. Commissioner Stephanie Summerow Dumas emphasized: “This budget prioritizes core services that we know work...We’re ensuring that our residents continue to receive the support they need.”
Further details about the recommended budget adjustments can be found on Hamilton County's Budget and Strategic Initiatives page.