Miami County to Consider Tax Levy to Fund New Jail Project; Public Hearings Scheduled 
Information from the Miami County Commissioners Office
TROY — Miami County officials are considering asking voters to approve a temporary sales tax increase to help pay for a new jail, with public hearings scheduled in January ahead of a possible ballot issue in 2026.

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   The Miami County Board of Commissioners has announced plans to hold two public hearings on a proposal to levy an additional one-half of one percent sales and use tax to fund the construction, acquisition, equipping or repair of a county detention facility. The hearings are set for Jan. 22 at 1:40 p.m. and Jan. 27 at 9:10 a.m. at the Miami County Safety Building in Troy.

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   If approved by the commissioners, the tax proposal would be placed on the May 5, 2026, primary election ballot. The tax would take effect Oct. 1, 2026, if a majority of voters support it.

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   Under the proposal, the additional sales tax would remain in effect for 10 years. County officials say the revenue would be dedicated solely to jail-related needs, as the county continues to face challenges associated with an aging detention facility and evolving standards for inmate safety, security and capacity.

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   Sales and use taxes in Ohio apply to most retail purchases, meaning the proposed increase would be shared by residents and visitors who shop in the county.

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   Public input is required under Ohio law before the county can adopt a resolution placing the tax issue before voters. Residents attending the hearings will have the opportunity to speak for or against the proposal and raise questions or concerns.

 

   Those who cannot attend the hearings may submit written comments to Janelle S. Barga, clerk of the Miami County Board of Commissioners, at the county offices located at 201 W. Main St. in Troy.

 

   The proposal is being considered under sections of the Ohio Revised Code that allow counties to levy additional sales and use taxes for specific purposes, including jail construction and improvements.

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   The Board of County Commissioners will decide after the hearings whether to formally adopt the resolution and send the issue to voters next spring.