Toledo · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Toledo public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Issue 16 Neighborhood Safety Income Tax Levy
The city laid out two 2027 budget paths: with Issue 16, new police and fire hires, open pools, and neighborhood investments; without it, 73 layoffs, closed pools, no curbside recycling, and drained reserves by 2029. Cuts to contracts, leadership, and vacancies happen either way.
City Structural Budget Deficit and Revenue Trends
Finance officials reported on early-year income tax receipts, noting a slight decrease through February that is normal for this stage of the fiscal year. The committee also discussed general fund expenditure trends and budgetary adjustments.
ARPA Fund Reallocation and Program Adjustments
City officials and council members discussed the spend-down of remaining federal ARPA funds ahead of the 2026 deadline, touching on project tracking and reallocations.
Proposed 1/4% Municipal Income Tax Levy
Income tax collections are down $7.8 million (4.7%) this year, with auto industry retooling cutting withholding and individual payments down three months straight. The city expects to finish about $5 million behind last year.
Municipal Solid Waste Fee Increase
The city is proposing increases to the monthly municipal solid waste fee to cover rising labor, fuel, and disposal costs, marking the first rate adjustment since 2016.
Capital Improvement and Road Improvement Budget
City officials presented the 2026 transportation and public works budget, highlighting grant-funded projects, road and bridge maintenance, sidewalk repairs, and signal upgrades. The transportation division managed to find a 5 percent reduction in its general fund contribution while maintaining key infrastructure priorities.