|
The Invisible Crisis: Why Abolishing Property Taxes Could End Ohio Townships
There has been much written and said about the movement to abolish property taxes in Ohio. What remains dangerously underappreciated is the outsized, potentially fatal impact this would have on Ohio’s 1,308 townships. Below is an introductory explanation of impacts to Townships in a question and answer format. We recognize the complexity of this issue and yet want to pass accurate and concise information to you as a starting point. As we proceed through the calendar year, please watch the Township’s website and social media for more information.
What do property taxes pay for?
At the township level, these funds are the lifeblood of daily existence. They pay for fire protection and EMS, police protection, road maintenance and snow removal, and local parks/community centers. Without them, these services do not just shrink—they vanish.
What is the impact?
Townships, in their present form, would likely cease to exist. Concord Township would no longer be as we now know it. All the great amenities and services that make Concord Township such a great place to live, work and play would be significantly impacted or discontinued. Unlike cities, which have more diversified revenue streams, townships are a "grassroots" form of government with almost no safety net.
Why would this happen?
The math is stark. Ohio townships receive approximately 70-75% or more of their operating revenue from local property taxes. Under current state law, townships are not permitted to collect income taxes or sales taxes to bridge this gap. Without a massive overhaul of the Ohio Revised Code to grant them new taxing authority, they would be left with no path forward.
The Road to the 2026 Ballot
The movement to enact this change is currently active. To abolish property taxes via a Constitutional amendment, the following steps must be completed:
-
Secure Signatures: Proponents must gather at least 413,488 valid signatures by July 1, 2026, to place the initiative on the November 3, 2026, ballot.
-
Public Vote: A simple majority of Ohioans must vote "Yes" to pass the amendment.
A Question of Representation
Township populations are not insignificant; they represent roughly 35% (over 1/3) of Ohio’s population. However, because this is a Constitutional change, the entire state votes. This means the 2/3 of the population living in municipal areas (cities and villages)—who already have the power to levy income taxes—will effectively decide the fate of township residents who have no such alternative.
If passed, the amendment would take effect on January 1, 2027, leaving a dangerously short window for a solution.
What are a Township’s options?
The future is uncertain. Without a state-funded "bailout" or new taxing rights, townships may be forced to:
-
Incorporate: Attempt to become a city or village to gain income tax authority, though this often requires high population density and brings significantly higher administrative costs.
-
Merge or Absorb: Be absorbed into neighboring cities, losing their unique rural or suburban identity and local control.
-
Dissolve: Simply cease providing services, leaving residents to rely on overextended county or private providers for basic safety.
| | |
*Classes are held at the Concord Community Center, 7671 Auburn Road, Concord Township, OH 44077
*Unless otherwise noted
Online registration is free!
https://concord.recdesk.com/community/home
REFUND POLICY
Concord Township reserves the right to cancel or consolidate any program that does not meet the minimum participation number required by the decision deadline. If a program is canceled, a full refund will be issued. Please allow 2-3 weeks for a refund check to be mailed. No refunds will be issued directly to credit cards.
In addition to canceled programs, refunds may only be fully refunded if there is a waitlist with someone able to take your spot, or written request within 3 days of the program. Partial or no refunds will be given if a participant cancels within 2 days of the program.
| The Spring/Summer 2026 printed Grapevine catalog of activities and classes is now available to download as a PDF! | | The Spring/Summer 2026 Recreation Guide had been published and is is available for download as a PDF. | | Thank you to all those who submitted photos and for those who voted in the contest. Congratulations to our 2026 winners! | | Old Stone School America 250 | | 25 visitors came to learn about the 6 American Revolutionary War Veterans buried in Concord Township's public cemeteries. | | |
The 2026 Story-Book Walk is coming to the Concord Community Center grounds this Memorial Day Weekend. The walk begins near the back Pavilion.
The America250 Children’s Coloring Book. “You Might be from Lake County IF…” will be available at the Old Stone School, Town Hall, or the Community Center in late May.
The Old Stone School Open House on May 25 will include an outdoor display tent featuring a local resident/reenactor and the WWII Normandy Invasion. Hours will be 1-3 pm
| |
May 11 & 18 Ohio Boater Education Course 6-10pm @ CCC
Ohio law requires all motorized boat and PWC operators born after January 1, 1982, who will be operating a vessel over 10 hp to pass a boater safety course and to carry a boater education card. Enroll in this 8 hour ODNR course this May. Instructor will provide all materials. Course is geared for ages 12 and up. Must attend both sessions and pass test to obtain license. Class limited to 18 candidates. $10 fee per person charge.
| | |
2026 Vessel Safety Check
Concord Township Residents may bring their boat or PWC to Concord Community Center on the following dates for a free voluntary safety check offered by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources. Vessel check is free but please preregister by calling. 440-639-4650.
Concord Community Center
W 5/20 6:30 P - 8:00 P
Sa 5/23 9:00 A - 12:00 P
| | |
ART CAMP (Ages 5-13)
Get ready for a week packed with creativity, color, and fun! Our Art Camp is the perfect place for young artists to explore a variety of art media, learn about inspiring artists, and create artwork they’ll be proud of. Campers will paint, draw, design, and experiment while building skills and confidence along the way.
A camper highlight of the week is designing a one-of-a-kind tie-dye shirt—a wearable keepsake to remember the experience, and at least 5 original artworks to take home. We’ll wrap up camp with a special Art Show, where campers get to showcase their amazing artwork for family and friends and celebrate everything they’ve created throughout the week. Sign your child up to make art, make memories, and let your creativity shine!
10min/25max
M-F 9:00-12:00 P 6/1-6/5 $185/student
M-F 9:00-12:00 P 6/8-6/12 $185/student
| | |
FUTURE FASHION STARS - FASHION CAMP!
Do you have a passion for fashion and creativity? Join us this summer for a one-of-a-kind enrichment camp where fun, friends, and creativity come together! Led by fashion educators and industry professionals, students will design a fashion line from concept to collection. Participants work individually and as a team, learning step-by-step skills like upcycling, design, illustration, basic sewing, and sustainability. All materials are provided, and students keep their creations. The experience wraps up with a lookbook photoshoot and runway showcase for family and friends! Min 12/Max 24
M-F 9:00-12:00 P 7/20-7/24 Grades 1-6 $250
| | |
Kid’s Dance, Move & Groove
Ages 2-4. This class is designed to get your child active and comfortable in group settings. Interactive movements and fun props will be incorporated.
Th 5/28-6/18 5:00-5:30 P
| | |
Kid’s Dance, Princess Ballet
Ages 3-5. Interactive movements and fun props will be used to get kids and caregivers active yet comfortable.
Th 5/28-6/18 5:30-6:00 P
| | |
Kid’s Dance, Cheer & Hip Hop
Ages 4-6. Learn a hip-hop routine to upbeat, kid-friendly music, as well as
fun cheers, jumps, and motions
Th 5/28-6/18 6:00-6:30 P
| | |
ROOKIE SPORTS CLUB PROGRAMS
Rookie Sports Club: Baseball
Rookie T-Ball is a great introduction to the game of baseball for young children. Using age-appropriate activities, players will be introduced to baseball fundamentals in a fun and supportive atmosphere. Each week the program will include an instructional portion including batting, base running, fielding, throwing, and catching. A modified game will be played each week. Parent participation is strongly encouraged to allow the program to run smoother. Children should bring their own glove.
| | |
Foot Clinics
Call to Schedule: 440-639-4650
Dr. Saxon, a podiatrist and surgeon at Balance Foot and Ankle Wellness Center, is now accepting new patients in Concord. A native of Cleveland’s east side, Dr. Saxon is board-qualified in foot and ankle surgery by the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgeons. He is enthusiastic about joining the Concord Township Community Center and is committed to giving back to the community through accessible, professional foot care. These clinics offer routine services, including toenail trimming, treatment of ingrown toenails, and care for corns and calluses.
Dates: 5/18, 6/22, 7/27, 8/24, 9/28, 10/26, 11/23, 12/14
Time: Appointments begin at 5:00 P Cost: $30 per visit, cash or check
Dr. Carissa Sharpe has joined us to help expand our Foot Care Clinic at the Concord Community Center. Dr. Sharpe is a board-certified podiatrist with the American Board of Podiatric Medicine and practices at Balance Private Practice in the Physician Pavilion at University Hospitals Concord. A proud Concord Township resident, she is eager to serve her neighbors by providing compassionate, expert foot care close to home. Services include toenail trimming, corns and callus care, and other basic foot and ankle treatments.
Dates: 5/5, 5/19, 6/2, 6/16, 7/7, 7/21, 8/4, 8/18, 9/1, 9/15, 10/6, 10/20, 11/3, 11/17, 12/1, 12/15
Time: Appointments begin at 1:00 P Cost: $30 per visit, cash or check
| | |
PILATES-YOGA FUSION
Pilates-Yoga Fusion: This fitness system combines Pilates and Yoga practices to build core strength and improve flexibility & balance. This class is low-impact and requires no experience. Please bring a yoga mat and water. Instructor: Colleen Stone
W 5:30-6:30 P 5/13-7/8 (No 5/27) $65 R/70 NR
GENTLE/CHAIR YOGA
Join Lyndsey Stropkey for an all levels chair yoga practice which will include breathing, movement, meditation, and relaxation. This class is open to anyone who would like to learn to breathe deeper, care for your joints, increase and maintain mobility and flexibility, improve strength and balance, and soothe your nervous system to counteract the effects of stress.
Class may include seated work, standing work, and the option to do some floorwork, if desired. However, you may come as you are and do what you can. There will be options given for all levels of ability. You may choose to opt out of any exercise that doesn't fit your needs, and many students choose not to get on the ground at all. Come as you are, and do what you can! Lyndsey has 18 years of teaching experience working in every setting from hospitals to schools, to community and senior centers, and wellness studios.
M 11:00-12:00 P 5/4-6/1 (off 5/25) $40/student
PICKLEBALL : Tuesdays
Join instructor Brian Murphy at the Pickleball Courts on Tuesday evenings from 6:00-7:00 PM for a spirited session of this popular sport.
T 6:00-7:00 P 5/06-5/25 $60 R/$65 NR
STAINED GLASS - Mini Beveled Heart, Adults 16+
Always wondered how stained-glass windows are made? This class is designed to give you a taste of the stained-glass craft without a significant time commitment. You will learn about cutting glass, preparing the glass for soldering, finishing the outside edges, cleaning, and polishing your creation so it will sparkle. You will assemble the heart using the copper-foil method, then complete the heart with hobby lead. No experience necessary; instructor will provide all tools and safety equipment for you to use in class. Be sure to dress comfortably, no sandals or open-toed shoes. Not recommended for pregnant women due to the chemicals used. Class is limited to six participants. Instructor: Vicki Vesel. Material fee payable to the instructor $10.00.
W 6:00-9:00 P 5/6-5/13 $60
| | If you have any questions about programs, please call the us at 440-639-4650. | | |
The Service Department has begun its 2026 construction season. Residents will notice our crews performing road maintenance throughout the Township. We remind motorists to slow down and pull over when approaching work zones. The 2026 Joint Road Resurfacing Projects will be underway in the beginning of May. Roads that will receive resurfacing this year are Cascade Rd, Orchard Rd, N. Orchard Rd, Stuart Dr. Haper Ct, and Marlo Dr. In addition to the resurfacing projects, the Service Department will be performing concrete slab replacement to our concrete roads throughout the Township. Crack sealing and Dura-Patch repairs will also be part of the Service Departments operations. These are maintenance procedures done on our asphalt roadways.
The Administration, Service Department and the Concord Township Garden Club observed Arbor Day on 4/24 with a tree planting at the Old Stone School House. A 12ft River Birch, Donated by Petiti Family Farms, Klyn Farm was planted on the northwest corner of the schoolhouse. Concord Township thanks Petiti Family Farms for their continued support.
The Yard waste drop off is currently open and residents can drop off Yard waste in bio-degradable bags to the Service Department in the designated material bin. Saturdays May 2nd and 16th is the annual brush days drop off. Residents may drop off brush no larger than 4” in diameter. No lumber, landscape timbers, railroad ties, or tree stumps are permitted. The yard waste drop off will also be open on these days.
The Service Department encourages residents with questions or concerns to contact us at 440-350-3225 or by email at concordtwp.com/service. We hope all residents have a safe and enjoyable spring season.
| |
Memorial Day
Please join us at 9:00 am on Monday, May 25, 2026, for a brief Memorial Day Service at Concord Cemetery, which is located on SR 608, just east of Fire Station #1. This is a time to honor and pay tribute to the Veterans buried in our cemeteries and remember loved ones that have gone before us.
This is a rain or shine event, however, in case of thunderstorms the ceremony will be moved to Fire Station 1.
For more information visit our website at https://concordtwp.com/departments/cemetery/ or call Karen Warner at 440-354-7518.
| | |
From the Concord Township Fire Department
As we welcome warmer temperatures, the Concord Township Fire Department is looking forward to the many opportunities ahead to connect and engage with our community. We also have several important updates we are excited to share in this edition of the eGrapevine.
We are especially proud to announce that our very own Lt. Mike Fearing will be recognized in Columbus as the recipient of the 2026 Ohio Fire Service Instructor of the Year Award from the Ohio Fire Marshal. Lt. Fearing serves as our department’s Training Officer and has been a dedicated fire service educator throughout Lake County for many years. In addition to his work within our department, he also leads the Lake County Technical Rescue Task Force. This recognition is a tremendous honor, and we are pleased to see his commitment and contributions recognized at the state level later this month.
We would also like to recognize Firefighters LaGanke, Nappi, and Hemly, who recently completed the Hazardous Materials Technician course. With this achievement, all three have officially joined the Lake County Hazardous Materials Team. Their dedication to continuing education and specialized training strengthens not only our department, but the regional response capabilities throughout Lake County. We thank them for their commitment to serving our community.
📰 May Safety Message: Outdoor Gatherings & Grilling Safety
May brings warmer weather, backyard gatherings, and graduation celebrations. The Concord Township Fire Department encourages residents to take a few simple precautions to keep these events safe and enjoyable for everyone.
🔥 Grilling Safety
- Keep grills at least 10 feet away from structures, decks, and overhangs.
- Never use grills indoors or inside garages.
- Check propane tanks, hoses, and connections for leaks before use.
- Clean grease buildup to prevent flare-ups.
- Always supervise the grill—never leave it unattended.
🎉 Graduation & Party Safety
- Graduation season often means larger gatherings, tents, and temporary setups.
- Keep exits clear and avoid overcrowding areas.
- Use only approved extension cords rated for outdoor use.
- Do not overload outlets or power strips.
- Keep cooking equipment away from tents and decorations.
- Ensure grills and open flames are a safe distance from guests.
- Have a plan in case of severe weather.
⛺ Tents & Outdoor Setup
- Secure tents properly to prevent movement in wind.
- Avoid open flames or cooking equipment inside tents unless specifically rated for it.
- Maintain clear access for emergency vehicles if needed.
🚰 Water & Early Summer Safety Reminder
- Always supervise children near pools, ponds, or water features.
- Consider life jackets for inexperienced swimmers.
- Never leave children unattended near water—even for a moment.
Community Education
We offer hands on instructional classes which can be tailored to most age levels. Classes are available for businesses, religious and civic groups, school children, individuals and families. Public events, such as block parties for example, may include a visit by the firefighters with a fire engine and/or rescue squad (as available). To schedule a general educational program or community event, please contact Fire Prevention at (440) 350-1856 or email concordinspectors@concordtwp.com.
| |
❤️ Community CPR Class Schedule – 2026 ❤️
The Concord Township Fire Department is offering Family & Friends CPR classes to community members in 2026.
📅 Class Dates:
• Tuesday, May 12 — FULL
• Tuesday, September 8
🕕 Classes begin at 6:00 PM
📍 Location: Concord Township Fire Station #1
11599 Concord Hambden Rd.
This course is designed for anyone with limited or no medical training and teaches participants how to:
✔️ Perform CPR
✔️ Use an AED
✔️ Respond during cardiac emergencies
💲 Cost: FREE (Registration is required)
📧 To register, email: concordfireprograms@concordtwp.com
📞 Or call the fire station at: 440-354-7504
| | |
👶🧸 Babysitter Training Course 🧸👶
📅 Wednesday, June 3rd & Thursday, June 4th
🕘 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM
The Concord Township Fire Department will be hosting a 2-day Babysitter Training Program designed for youth ages 11–15 who are planning to babysit.
Participants will learn the knowledge and skills necessary to safely and responsibly care for children and infants. Attendance on both days is required to receive a completion certificate.
📍 Location:
Concord Township Fire Station #1
11599 Concord Hambden Road
💲 Registration Fee: $60.00
(Payable the first night of class)
📧 To Register:
Please email the child’s name and a contact phone number to:
concordfireprograms@concordtwp.com
📞 Questions? Call the fire station at 440-354-7504.
| | |
On April 18, 2025, the Concord Township Fire Department hosted a 3-hour Pet First Aid & CPR class, with 50 community members in attendance.
The class was instructed by Dr. Rob of Trinity Veterinary Hospital, who provided hands-on training on how to recognize emergencies, perform CPR, and care for pets until veterinary help is available.
We are especially grateful for Dr. Rob’s generosity and support from our community. Through matched public donations, he provided the department with:
- 3 Canine CPR manikins
- 2 Feline CPR manikins
These training tools, valued at approximately $7,000, will be used to educate both our firefighters and future classes of community members.
In addition, Dr. Rob and his team prepared and distributed pet first aid kits to all participants.
🐶 Life-Saving Equipment Donation
Dr. Rob also purchased and donated pet oxygen (O₂) masks, which are now carried on Concord Township and surrounding area fire apparatus. These masks allow firefighters and paramedics to provide oxygen to pets rescued from fires, significantly improving their chances of survival.
💙 Thank You
We extend our sincere thanks to Dr. Rob and the Trinity Veterinary Hospital team for their continued partnership and commitment to public safety.
| | SUPPORT LOCAL ORGANIZATIONS | | If your local business or organization is interested in advertising or sponsorship opportunities in 2026, please reach out to Sean Supler at ssupler@concordtwp.com for more information! | |
Concord Township, Lake County, OH | P: 440.354.7510 | F: 440.354.7511 | www.concordtwp.com | | | | |
