Three Hamilton County tax levies could be on the November ballot this year. Two are recommended for renewal at the same property tax rate, and one is recommended for an increase.

Minority- and woman-owned businesses are not getting their fair share of government contracts in Hamilton County, according to a new report conducted for the Board of County Commissioners.

Hamilton County owns the utility, and commissioners approve the budget every year. But Cincinnati operates MSD and negotiates with the labor union. Last year the city approved a 5% cost of living raise, higher than the 2% raise accounted for in the budget.

Commissioners now plan to spend a total $35.5 million from the American Rescue Plan Act to produce new units, fix up existing units, and establish a home repair program. Another $5 million will be used for homelessness prevention.

The pilot program was developed after commissioners heard from senior citizens who are not eligible for federal COVID-relief programs but needed help due to rising costs while on a fixed income. It will target seniors who are not eligible for other assistance by increasing the income limits for eligibility.

The report is the first step in a forthcoming master plan. Commissioners will have ultimate authority to decide what changes to make to the stadium and how much to spend.

ArtsWave is administering the grants using the county's American Rescue Plan funds. About a quarter of the 53 recipients are getting a pandemic relief grant for the first time.

Millions of dollars from the federal American Rescue Plan is still on the table in Hamilton County and commissioners are starting a debate on how best to spend the money. A consulting firm spent the last few months meeting with stakeholders and developing a list of recommendations.

More than 6,700 people have been granted assistance. There's roughly $10 million left to give out.

The courthouse is the latest regional facility to be lit in the colors of the Ukrainian flag as a show of support for the country under attack from Russia.