Fire Districts Struggle as Tax Breaks Drain Funds | Columbus News

Fire districts across Ohio, including West Licking, are facing severe funding shortfalls as tax breaks for new developments drain critical revenue—projected to cost West Licking over $27 million by 2025. With staff numbers shrinking despite rising demand, lawmakers like Rep. Kevin Miller are pushing House Bill 778 to require developers to contribute to fire and EMS costs, ensuring growth doesn’t shift burdens to taxpayers. Developers support incentives for economic growth but urge balanced policies that fund essential services without destabilizing local budgets. The bill seeks to create a fair, sustainable model where development and safety go hand in hand. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/b534305ecdd605fe