Connected Communities: A Controversial Plan for Cincinnati’s Future

A major new proposal, ‘Connected Communities,’ is stirring debate across Cincinnati and Hamilton County. Spearheaded by prominent business leaders, this plan aims to create a powerful regional development agency that could fundamentally change how our city grows and invests. Understanding its details is crucial for every local resident as discussions continue.

What is the “Connected Communities” Plan?

At its core, “Connected Communities” proposes the creation of a new, powerful regional development agency for southwest Ohio. This entity would span Cincinnati, Hamilton County, and potentially other surrounding counties, with the primary goal of streamlining and accelerating significant development projects and infrastructure improvements. The initiative is being driven by a group of influential business and civic leaders operating under the moniker “Moving Cincinnati Forward,” including figures like developer Otto M. Budig Jr. and former Kroger CEO Rodney McMullen.

Proponents argue that fragmented local development hinders Cincinnati’s ability to compete regionally. They believe a unified, well-funded regional body could attract more investment, create jobs, and foster economic growth more efficiently across the entire metropolitan area.

Key Controversies and Concerns

While the vision of enhanced regional competitiveness resonates with many, the specific structure and implications of “Connected Communities” have sparked significant controversy, particularly among local elected officials and community groups in Cincinnati.

Loss of Local Control

One of the most significant concerns revolves around the potential erosion of local autonomy. The proposed regional agency would assume significant power over key development aspects, including zoning, land use decisions, and the allocation of development incentives. Critics worry this would strip Cincinnati’s City Council and local planning bodies of their authority, ceding crucial decision-making to an unelected regional board less accountable to city residents.

Funding and Accountability

The plan suggests funding the new agency through a dedicated 0.15% regional sales tax. This tax is projected to generate over $100 million annually, a substantial sum that would flow directly to the regional agency, bypassing the traditional budgetary processes of local legislative bodies like Cincinnati City Council and the Hamilton County Commissioners. This direct funding, with an unelected board, raises transparency and democratic accountability questions, as residents would have less direct recourse to influence spending.

Impact on Existing Structures

There are also questions about how this new regional agency would integrate with or supersede existing planning commissions, economic development departments, and other civic bodies. Concerns exist about whether it would prioritize large regional projects over specific neighborhood needs or smaller municipalities, potentially creating new disparities.

Comparing Development Approaches

To better understand the proposed shift, consider the differences between our current development framework and the “Connected Communities” proposal:

What to Watch Next

The “Connected Communities” plan is currently undergoing discussion and refinement. While the exact timeline is fluid, it is possible that a version of this proposal could eventually be put before voters as a ballot initiative. Local residents, community organizations, and elected officials continue to debate the merits and drawbacks, exploring potential amendments or alternative approaches to regional cooperation.

Staying informed about these ongoing conversations, attending public forums, and communicating your perspective to your City Council representatives and Hamilton County Commissioners will be essential as this plan progresses.

FAQs About Connected Communities

• What is the “Connected Communities” plan?
  It’s a proposal to establish a new, powerful regional development agency in southwest Ohio, backed by a new sales tax, to oversee major development projects and infrastructure improvements across Cincinnati and surrounding areas.
• Who is behind this plan?
  A group of prominent business and civic leaders, including developer Otto M. Budig Jr. and former Kroger CEO Rodney McMullen, operating under the name “Moving Cincinnati Forward.”
• Why is it controversial?
  Main concerns include a potential loss of local control for Cincinnati’s elected officials over development decisions, the creation of an unelected regional board, and a new sales tax that would fund this agency directly, bypassing local legislative oversight.
• How would the proposed agency be funded?
  The plan proposes a new 0.15% regional sales tax dedicated to the agency, which is expected to generate over $100 million annually for its operations and projects.
• What happens next with the plan?
  The plan is currently in discussion and refinement phases. It may eventually be put before voters as a ballot initiative, and public input continues to be a crucial part of its evolution.

The “Connected Communities” plan represents a significant fork in the road for Cincinnati’s future development. As conversations evolve, staying informed and engaging with your local representatives will be key to shaping how our region grows.

Cincinnati development plan sparks debate