In Portage County, Ohio, a recent spike in property valuations has sparked intense debate over the future of property taxes. Many residents are questioning how the additional funds will be allocated, while others advocate for the complete abolition of these taxes. However, eliminating property taxes could have profound implications for local services, which heavily rely on this revenue stream. Current laws mandate periodic revaluations, resulting in an estimated $39 million increase in tax revenue for 2025 compared to the previous year. While some county officials anticipate budget adjustments, they remain cautious about committing to significant spending increases.
The issue of property taxes in Portage County is complex and deeply intertwined with local governance. Under existing Ohio legislation, counties must reassess property values every three to six years. This process has led to a substantial financial boost, with the county collecting nearly $39 million more in 2025 than in 2024. A portion of this revenue, approximately $10.9 million, is allocated to the county’s general fund, supporting various departments and operational expenses. The remainder is distributed among municipalities within the county, including cities, villages, and townships. Despite this influx, no immediate changes to departmental budgets are planned until the next fiscal cycle begins in 2026.
County Commissioner Mike Tinlin emphasized that discussions regarding the allocation of additional funds have yet to occur. He noted that the exact amount available for budgetary considerations remains unclear. "We haven’t allocated or spent anything at this point," Tinlin stated. "The money will remain unspent until we conduct our budget hearings and determine where the needs lie." Treasurer John Kennedy anticipates requests from department heads seeking increased funding, given the heightened awareness of the county's expanded financial resources. Kennedy remarked, "It’s natural for departments to consider projects and staffing that have been postponed. Now is the opportune moment to inquire about such matters."
Despite the potential for increased requests, Tinlin remains committed to prudent fiscal management. He stated, "I prioritize what is necessary for the county’s operation rather than indulging in desires." Meanwhile, a grassroots movement called Project Promise advocates for the elimination of property taxes altogether. If successful, their proposed constitutional amendment would necessitate gathering signatures from over 400,000 registered voters across at least 44 counties. Such a change would drastically alter the financial landscape for schools, municipalities, and other public entities reliant on property tax revenue.
Understanding the intricacies of property taxation requires familiarity with terms like mills and the distinction between inside and outside millage. According to Portage County Auditor Matt Kelly, property taxes are levied as mills, with one mill equating to one-tenth of a cent per dollar of assessed value. Assessed values represent 35% of a property’s fair market value. Up to 10 mills can be collected without voter approval, designated as inside millage. Outside millage involves voter-approved levies funding specific initiatives such as education, infrastructure, and social services.
As property values continue to rise, so too does the average tax burden. For instance, a property valued at $200,000 might face $2,100 annually in property taxes based on a combination of inside and outside millage rates. With the average residential valuation now exceeding $200,000, homeowners face increasing financial pressures. Realtor Scott Tinlin clarified that appraised values may not always align with market sale prices, adding another layer of complexity to the discussion.
The surge in property valuations presents both opportunities and challenges for Portage County. While additional funds offer the possibility of enhancing public services, their allocation must be carefully considered to ensure long-term sustainability. Officials stress the importance of thorough analysis before making any commitments. Meanwhile, the push to eliminate property taxes underscores the broader debate surrounding equitable funding mechanisms for essential community services. As discussions unfold, the county’s financial future hangs in the balance, shaped by decisions made today.
Students who narrowly miss admission to the University of Virginia now have an alternative route through the Year in Wise program. This initiative offers deferred admission for those willing to spend a year at UVA's College at Wise, where they must complete 30 credits and maintain a 'B' average. This innovative transfer system not only benefits students but also strengthens both institutions academically and economically. It enhances diversity within UVA's student body while elevating UVA Wise's profile as a significant educational hub in Southwest Virginia.
The program has transformed lives, offering opportunities for personal growth and meaningful connections. Students like Charlotte Schroeder found unexpected value in their time at Wise, discovering rich cultural experiences and forming lasting relationships. Additionally, this program fosters inclusivity by connecting students from various regions of Virginia, thereby enriching the academic environment at both campuses.
Empowering Student Growth Through Exploration
This section highlights how the Year in Wise program facilitates personal development among its participants. By immersing themselves in a new environment, students broaden their perspectives and uncover hidden interests. For instance, Charlotte Schroeder discovered profound friendships and developed a deeper appreciation for Appalachian culture. Such transformative experiences underscore the program’s ability to cultivate well-rounded individuals ready to thrive in diverse settings.
During their year at UVA Wise, students encounter numerous opportunities for self-discovery. Many are surprised by the vibrant community life and supportive faculty, which foster intellectual curiosity and emotional resilience. Outdoor recreation activities introduce them to the natural beauty surrounding the campus, further enhancing their appreciation for regional heritage. These interactions extend beyond academics, shaping holistic personalities that contribute positively to society. Furthermore, the intimate teaching environment allows professors to mentor students closely, nurturing talents that might otherwise remain untapped.
Building Bridges Between Communities
Beyond individual impact, the Year in Wise program strengthens ties between different parts of Virginia. By attracting high-achieving students from across the state, it elevates UVA Wise's standing as a vital educational resource in Southwest Virginia. This collaboration ensures greater representation of underrepresented regions within UVA's main campus, promoting inclusivity and equity in higher education access.
The initiative addresses disparities in financial and population growth experienced by Southwest Virginia compared to other areas of the state. Chancellor Donna Henry emphasizes the dual benefit of bringing talented students into a lesser-known institution, enriching the classroom experience for all. Simultaneously, it provides UVA with pathways to enroll more students from Southwest Virginia, fostering mutual growth. To accommodate increasing interest, UVA Wise has expanded dormitory facilities, signaling its commitment to supporting this impactful program. Through such efforts, both institutions enhance their roles as catalysts for positive change within the broader Virginia community.
In a series of remarkable displays, various baseball talents have left their mark on the field. From Major League Baseball to the Triple-A and Double-A circuits, players have demonstrated exceptional skills through home runs, strikeouts, and other key contributions. Notable performances include Marcelo Mayer's impressive debut with two home runs, Andrew McCutchen surpassing Roberto Clemente on the Pirates' all-time home run list, and Spencer Schwellenbach delivering a complete game against the Brewers. Additionally, emerging prospects such as Drew Gilbert and Jhostynxon Garcia showcased their potential in Triple-A, while Max Anderson and Jett Williams made significant impacts in Double-A.
The world of professional baseball witnessed an array of standout moments recently, beginning with a young third baseman from Boston making waves. A player named Mayer, showcasing his prowess early in his career, delivered a performance marked by power and precision at the plate. This was not the only instance of excellence; veteran slugger McCutchen achieved a milestone that placed him among the legends of his team. Meanwhile, pitchers like Luzardo and Schwellenbach exhibited dominance on the mound, striking out numerous batters and securing crucial victories for their teams.
Moving down to the minor leagues, the Triple-A division saw its fair share of brilliance. Players like Drew Gilbert, acquired in a significant trade deal involving Justin Verlander, continued to prove his worth with another powerful swing. Similarly, Brice Matthews demonstrated versatility by nearly hitting for the cycle, combining his batting prowess with speed on the basepaths. Another intriguing figure is Harry Ford, whose multi-position capabilities could play a vital role in shaping his future within the organization despite current roster constraints.
At the Double-A level, the excitement did not diminish. Here, infielder Max Anderson displayed a consistent approach at the plate, maintaining high offensive production metrics. Shortstop Seaver King contributed with a well-placed opposite-field home run, highlighting his adaptability at the dish. Furthermore, Jett Williams provided fans with a thrilling display of power, hitting two home runs in one game—a feat underscoring his return to form after injury setbacks.
As these games unfolded, they painted a vivid picture of baseball's enduring appeal. Each player, whether established star or rising prospect, added unique dimensions to their respective teams' successes. The collective efforts underscored the dynamic nature of competition across different levels of professional baseball, ensuring that excitement remains palpable for both spectators and participants alike. These achievements serve as reminders of the sport’s rich tradition and promise for future greatness.