Capital budget bill provides $16M for local projects

COLUMBUS — Hancock County will receive almost $16 million in funding from the state for local projects, including $15 million for the Eagle Creek Watershed Flood Mitigation project. The funding was secured as Senate Bill 310, which provides federal COVID-19 funding and makes capital appropriations, was agreed to in a joint conference committee of the Ohio General Assembly on Friday, according to Rep. Jon Cross, R-Kenton. "I'm extremely delighted to champion my district and help bring state funding to important community projects and infrastructure needs in Hancock and Hardin counties," said Cross in a press release. "As Ohio begins the economic recovery phase, these funds will help keep our communities safer, stronger and open for business." The bill also appropriates $500,000 for the 50 North expansion project, and $400,000 for the construction of the Findlay YMCA Child Development Center. Other projects in the 83rd District, which includes Hancock, Hardin and parts of Logan counties, that received funding in the bill include: • Hardin County YMCA Renovations, $164,000 • Kenton Memorial Park Golf Course Community Center, $200,000 • Kenton Municipal Pool Improvements, $20,000 • Alger Park Ballfield Backstop, $12,000 • Hardin County Museum-Burnison Barn Renovation, $64,000 Statewide, the bill includes more than $2.1 billion in capital improvements, including $452 million for the Department of Higher Education, $300 million for K-12 school building construction and improvements, $280 million for the Ohio Public Works Commission and $50 million for county jail projects across the state. The bill now proceeds to the Gov. Mike DeWine's desk for his signature of approval within 10 days.