Miami Township debates fire funding amid Hamilton County zoning overhaul

The Village Council of North Bend, Ohio, convened on March 24, 2025, to discuss critical issues affecting local governance and community services. A significant focus of the meeting was the ongoing collaboration with Hamilton County regarding zoning regulations and emergency services funding.

During the meeting, council members addressed concerns about the financial implications of Fire and EMS services. Jim Brett, the administrator from Miami Township, reported that the total annual expense for these services is approximately $4.145 million. The current offer from the county stands at $2.287 million, which raises questions about the adequacy of funding. Council members expressed the need for a more transparent breakdown of costs, emphasizing that the proposed funding may not cover the actual expenses incurred.

Additionally, the council discussed the long-term project with Hamilton County, which has been in development since May 2023. The initiative aims to standardize zoning regulations across various municipalities, with North Bend serving as a pilot community. This effort seeks to streamline zoning criteria, which currently vary significantly across the county.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to continue discussions and updates on both the funding for emergency services and the zoning project. Council members acknowledged the importance of these issues for the community's future and pledged to keep residents informed as developments arise.