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Athens council continues proposed income tax hike discussion
A former state rep says the increase would be a large burden on wage-earners; a councilman questioned the city’s plans for additional revenue.
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Athens City Council members spar over ORCA membership ordinance
Jessica Thomas and Alan Swank traded barbs after Thomas proposed amending the ordinance to reduce the required budget reserve threshold.
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Mayor’s office proposes Athens income tax increase
The administration says the city needs to raise the income tax to 2.25% to offset lower income tax withholding from Ohio University.
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Athens City Council moves to pay ORCA dues
At its Nov. 4 meeting, council heard first reading of an ordinance that sets the city’s dues at a fraction of previous payments. Also discussed: the 2025 budget.
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Commissioners split on outdoor rec council; city likely to renew support
A reduction in Outdoor Recreation Council of Appalachia membership fees has revived the question of 2024 support – but the county seems unlikely to pay amid budgetary and “personality” issues.
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Mayor’s zoning board reappointee resigns amid controversy (Updated)
Weeks of controversy have surrounded the mayor’s attempted reappointment of an Athens landlord to the Board of Zoning appeals.
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Business owner raises questions about Uptown street closures
Cool Digs owner Sara Quoia said that Uptown streets have been closed multiple times this year without council’s approval.
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Athens City Council OKs amended cannabis and tobacco zoning ordinance
Mayor Steve Patterson’s ‘sense of urgency’ spurred the council to amend and pass the ordinance in one sitting, rather than send the ordinance back to first reading.
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Athens council considers using DUI Court Fund to pay workers
Using court fees for wages would boost the city’s general fund reserve — but it also creates an incentive to charge more people with DUI.
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Athens City Council authorizes mayor to join council of governments for solid waste
At Monday’s meeting, city council also revisited discussions on tobacco and cannabis rezoning and renewing the city’s membership in the Outdoor Recreation Council of Appalachia.
