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Mayor Aftab Pureval has officially proposed a Cincinnati income tax increase to address a looming budget deficit. This will also fund critical public safety initiatives.
City leaders warn that without the income tax increase, the city faces drastic cuts to services. This is because federal pandemic relief funds expire this year.
In his second inaugural address on Tuesday, Mayor Aftab Pureval laid out a stark financial reality for the Queen City. Facing the expiration of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds and a projected deficit, the mayor argued that a tax hike is necessary to maintain current service levels. Furthermore, it will also invest in violence prevention.
According to local media reports such as WCPO 9 and Fox 19, Pureval said the proposed tax increase would help the city address gun violence. Additionally, it will support broader anti-poverty initiatives that officials believe contribute to community safety.
Pureval did not provide final details on the rate increase, including specific percentages or the timeline for implementation. He said the city administration would present a more detailed proposal within the next 60 days.
Officials have framed the proposed Cincinnati income tax increase as a response to ongoing public safety challenges, including a recent fatal shooting that drew intense community concern.
Public safety funding and community context
Mayor Pureval stressed that enhancing public safety is a core priority of his second term and connected the tax discussion directly to violence in Cincinnati neighborhoods.
“Juvenile gun violence is a crisis, and it must be met with a bold response,” he said, echoing his comments from the swearing-in ceremony.
Recently, at least one recent shooting — the death of an 11-year-old girl in the West End — has amplified calls from residents and local leaders for more aggressive strategies to protect children and families.
According to WCPO, the new revenue would be targeted toward public safety. It will also disrupt poverty, which the mayor believes is a root cause of violence. Pureval mentioned that the funding could support police and fire departments. Also, it will invest in community programs and strengthen neighborhood infrastructure to improve overall safety.
A community member attending a recent Cincinnati City Council meeting told WCPO that public safety improvements are crucial. However, she was unsure whether the tax increase would immediately improve conditions.
What the mayor proposes and broader priorities
Pureval and city officials have not yet finalized the exact income tax rate increase. However, they indicated the plan would be formally introduced in city council soon. FOX19 reports that the current tax rate in Cincinnati stands at 1.8 percent. Any change would require approval from council and likely voters.
Moreover, WKRC reported that the mayor also said the revenue could help fund long-term anti-poverty efforts. These are designed to complement public safety investments. They include affordable housing development, neighborhood revitalization, and programs aimed at supporting minority-owned businesses.
Pureval emphasized that new revenue streams are necessary to respond to urgent safety concerns. They are also needed to improve economic opportunity and quality of life for Cincinnatians.
Voices on the proposal
Local law enforcement advocates and some neighborhood leaders support efforts to secure more funding for public safety. Officials have highlighted expanded walking and bike patrols. They also mention partnerships with the Ohio State Highway Patrol, and investments in cameras and license plate readers as elements of a broader crime-fighting strategy that additional revenue could sustain.
Critics and fiscal observers have cautioned that tax increases should be weighed carefully against household financial pressures. This is especially important for low-income residents. Some community members have called for increased visibility and details before backing any change.
Next steps in the process
City officials said residents can expect a detailed proposal in the coming weeks. This plan would outline the proposed Cincinnati income tax change. It will also explain how the additional funds are to be allocated and how the city intends to implement accountability measures for spending.
Spectrum News 1 reported that the proposal will likely undergo multiple hearings and discussions at Cincinnati City Council before any final decision is made. If council approves the measure, it could be included on a future ballot for voters to accept or reject.
Community engagement and transparency
Pureval’s administration, per reports, plans outreach efforts and public forums to gather feedback from Cincinnati residents. These forums will focus on the priorities they want funded with the additional revenue. They are expected to shape final recommendations to council.
Officials have not set a firm date for those sessions. However, residents are invited to participate and provide input as the city moves toward a finalized plan, local reported say.
The Cincinnati income tax proposal continues to spark debate, with many residents weighing potential benefits to public safety against the impacts of higher local taxation. City leaders say the decision will reflect shared values and priorities for community well-being.
Also read:
Ohio capital budget advances after lawmakers finalize property tax deal
