Lake County commissioners rescind sales tax

LAKE COUNTY, Ohio (WOIO) - At their Thursday morning meeting, Lake County commissioners voted to rescind the 1/2 percent sales tax increase they had passed earlier this month.

The increase had angered many residents, who immediately started a petition drive to get the issue on the ballot.

19 News was told the reason for originally increasing the sales tax was to invest in public safety.

Statement from Lake County Commissioner John Plecnik:

“I was proud to stand with families, seniors on fixed incomes and local businesses in being the only Commissioner to vote no on the biggest tax increase in Lake County history. Now I am grateful the other two Commissioners changed their minds and voted with me to repeal their sales tax increase. This is a great victory for the people of Lake County, and this sends a strong message to any politicians who try to unilaterally vote to raise our taxes. Families are struggling to put food on the table and fill their gas tank. Seniors on fixed incomes are literally being tax out of their homes. Small businesses are fighting to keep the lights on. Now is not the time for big government to get bigger and ask for more from the people.”

Statement from Lake County Commissioner Richard Regovich:

“I have spent the past two weeks listening to the residents of Lake County, many whom support the measure and others who are unsure. I feel strongly that we owe it to all residents to give this important matter serious deliberation. Please understand my commitment is still to support public safety. It is my commitment to the voters. I am eager to start working immediately with my fellow commissioners and staff.”

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