Policy & Legislation

Powering A Resurgence for Ohio

Statewide Policy Agenda & Core Cities Strategy for Ohio

Compared to most states, Ohio’s economy is balanced across numerous cities and metro regions. These core cities are the central nodes of economic activity that can power an economic resurgence for Ohio.

This is a unique advantage that makes Ohio more regionally balanced, less dependent on a single urban hub, and better positioned for economic growth across the state. Incentivizing growth in cities also protects small towns from unwanted development and preserves Ohio’s vital farmland.

As the following report outlines, cities drive regional growth and support Ohio’s statewide economic success by driving GDP output and generating state tax revenues. Through a targeted strategy to reinvest in the areas of the state driving economic growth, Ohio’s cities can power a population and economic resurgence for Ohio. 

2026-2027 Policy Recommendations:

#1 Create the Ohio Core Cities Transformation Fund (OCCTF)
This new state fund will support revitalization efforts in Ohio’s core cities and power an economic resurgence across Ohio.

#2 Targeted Housing Needs in Ohio Cities
Extend the Residential Economic Development District model to core cities and add a housing-infrastructure set-aside within OCCTF.

#3 Establish the Public Safety Enhancement Fund
A dedicated fund to help pay competitive wages, retain quality personnel, and hire more first responders.

#4 Reset the State-Local Partnership Framework
Local governments deliver services while the state sets direction—a partnership in need of a reset.

Read more about these policy recommendations in our comprehensive Statewide Agenda and Core Cities Strategy Report.

Find out more about our committees, programs, and partnerships that are all focused on advancing these policy priorities on behalf of our cities.