Findlay Times

COLUMBUS—The Ohio House of Representatives passed Substitute House Bill 2 today, the state’s two-year construction budget for capital projects throughout Ohio, announced State Rep. Jon Cross (R-Findlay). The bill allocates over $4.2 billion for capital projects and includes $717 million in one-time project funding from the Strategic Community Investment Fund.

Specifically, the Hancock County ADAMH Board will receive $200,000 in capital funding to complete facility upgrades aimed at supporting those on the path to recovery.

“As promised, I am pleased to see this historic funding make its way back to the 83rd House District,” said Cross. “I look forward to seeing the transformative effects of these projects for generations to come.”

Cross secured a record amount of $9.7 million in one-time funding from the Strategic Community Investment Fund that will directly benefit the 83rd House District and surrounding communities. The allocations include:

- $5 million for dredging at Indian Lake, ensuring longevity of critical water infrastructure;

- $1.25 million for constructing a new Findlay-Hancock County YMCA facility with an adjoining Early Learning Center for Excellence;

- $500,000 for modernizing livestock facilities at the Hancock County Fairgrounds;

- $500,000 for revitalizing Ada War Memorial Park;

- $500,000 for expanding the ONU HealthWise Mobile Health Clinic;

- $500,000 for purchasing a new fire pump truck;

- $500,000 for modernizing livestock facilities at the Hardin County Fairgrounds;

- $250,000 for upgrading Commercial Driver’s License Training Program Facilities at Owens State Community College Findlay Campus;

- $250,000 for modernizing facilities and connecting walkways throughout Hancock County Park District;

- $200,000 for improving Veterans Memorial Park pump house irrigation;

- $150,000 for building new pickleball courts at Oldfield Beach on Indian Lake;

- $50,000 for upgrading basketball and pickleball courts at Hardin County Veterans Memorial Park; and

- $40,000 for repairing outfield and foul line fences at Agler Baseball Field.

Additionally, statewide capital investments included in this legislation are:

- $600 million for the School Building Program Assistance Fund,

- $400 million for the Public Works Commission Local Public Infrastructure and State Capital Improvement Program,

- And $397.6 million for higher education projects around Ohio.

The Strategic Community Investment Fund was established in last year’s main operating budget. Due to conservative fiscal stewardship, these funds could be invested in projects that will advance Ohio alongside traditional capital budget allocations.

Substitute House Bill 2 now heads to the Ohio Governor's desk for a signature.