State Rep. Melanie Miller. Credit: Submitted

COLUMBUS — State Rep. Melanie Miller (R-Ashland) recently introduced legislation establishing a bipartisan commission focused on addressing local, municipal issues across Ohio.

House Bill 912 is a reintroduction of legislation from last General Assembly that creates the State and Municipal Government Commission. If established, the commission would work to foster collaboration between state legislators and local leaders to discuss, analyze and recommend solutions for challenges affecting municipalities statewide.

“Ohio’s municipalities face unique challenges that deserve thoughtful collaboration between state and local leaders,” Miller said. “This commission creates a dedicated forum for bipartisan discussion and problem-solving so communities of every size can have a stronger voice in shaping policies that impact their residents, infrastructure and economic growth.”

The commission would consist of 13 members including:

  • The Director of Development or the Director’s designee, serving as chairperson.
  • Four members appointed by the Governor, comprising of:
    • Two mayors (or their designees) from municipal corporations with populations of 60,000 or more.
    • Two mayors (or their designees) from municipal corporations with populations under 60,000.
  • Two members appointed by the Senate President, consisting of:
    • One member of the General Assembly.
    • One mayor, municipal executive, or charter county executive.
  • Two members appointed by the Senate Minority Leader, consisting of:
    • One member of the General Assembly.
    • One mayor, municipal executive, or charter county executive.
  • Two members appointed by the Speaker of the House, consisting of:
    • One member of the General Assembly.
    • One mayor, municipal executive, or charter county executive.
  • Two members appointed by the House Minority Leader, consisting of:
    • One member of the General Assembly.
    • One mayor, municipal executive, or charter county executive.

Under the bill, members would serve two-year terms and meet at least twice annually. The commission will submit a biennial report by Jan. 29 of each odd-numbered year, detailing recommendations for the General Assembly and summarizing legislation passed concerning home rule and municipal authority.