DevelopOhio

Plans for a proposed Joint Economic Development District (JEDD) among Scioto Township, Grove City and the Village of Commercial Point have hit a roadblock.  The Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction (ODRC) is objecting to the inclusion of its property in the proposed JEDD, arguing that inclusion of two correctional facilities in the proposed JEDD territory demonstrates that the JEDD is "solely for generating tax revenue," rather than for stimulating economic development, Grove City Record reports. As proposed, the Scioto Township Joint Economic Development District would have authority to collect income tax, which townships cannot do under state law. Proponents say that the JEDD would be used to facilitate economic development, create employment opportunities and improve the economic welfare of the area and state as a whole.  ODRC, however, says the JEDD’s income tax would negatively impact 63 percent of the facilities' employees. Grove City is delaying a decision until the issue can be discussed with ODRC representatives, the article said.