ROSS COUNTY, Ohio — Ross County Auditor Jeff Lehner released today that his office will be issuing refunds amounting to more than $483,000 to various jurisdictions following the 2023 first half tax collection. The refunds will match the original amount paid by each levying subdivision, including the County’s school districts, townships, villages, the Chillicothe-Ross County Public Library, and the City of Chillicothe.
With a commitment to streamlining county government operations, Auditor Lehner emphasized the importance of efficiency and productivity. “I’m here to help produce a county government as lean, productive, and efficient as we can possibly achieve,” he stated. “These funds represent a significant cash surplus in the Auditor’s real estate division budget right now. We don’t need them for operations, and I believe they can be better used for Ross County than to keep sitting in our office account.”
In Ohio, county auditors calculate levy revenues based on millage and distribute them proportionally to each taxing authority during property tax collection seasons. To support the operations of the Auditor’s real estate office, a fee is deducted from these distributions.
Auditor Lehner further explained the timeline for the refund process, saying, “The goal is to have these funds returned to our subdivisions by June. For now, this is a one-time action made possible by unique economic circumstances over the last 18 months, specifically inflation. That said, I’m open to future similar actions based on conditions around tax collection seasons on a case-by-case basis. The objective is to maximize value for Ross County taxpayers — we’ll keep that focus in the years ahead according to what’s possible.”
The announcement of these substantial refunds brings a welcome relief to the levying subdivisions within Ross County. The additional funds will enable these jurisdictions to address various needs and priorities, benefiting the local communities and enhancing public services.
Local officials expressed their gratitude for Auditor Lehner’s proactive approach to fiscal management. As the refunds are processed and returned to their original jurisdictions, Ross County residents can look forward to witnessing tangible outcomes that directly benefit their communities. Local officials applauded Auditor Lehner’s commitment to responsible financial stewardship and said that he continues to drive initiatives that prioritize the well-being and prosperity of Ross County as a whole.