Akron just experienced a whirlwind of changes at the polls, with a significant 79% approving a bill to keep taxes in check. Meanwhile, the Alcohol, Drug Addiction, and Mental Health Services Board also secured funding with a 57% vote. But let’s not forget the city council's decision to grant raises to all non-union city employees, including council members. This comes right after the police union got a hefty wage hike, which is great for morale but raises eyebrows about the city’s budget. With income tax revenue dropping and federal grants disappearing, we’re left wondering how Akron plans to balance these generous increases with its financial reality. Spoiler alert: tough choices are on the horizon.

Takeaways:

• Akron's recent voting results showed a strong desire to limit taxes, with 79% approval.
• The Alcohol, Drug Addiction, and Mental Health Services Board received funding approval with 57% support.
• Akron City Council approved raises for all non-union city employees, including council members and the mayor.
• The recent pay raises for city employees come just after significant wage increases for police officers.
• The city faces budget challenges as labor costs rise, which may lead to service cuts or tax hikes.
• This holiday season, Akron encourages shopping local with promotions and multiple holiday markets planned.

Links referenced in this episode:

• akronpodcast.com
• Shop Local Downtown

Mentioned in this episode:

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This week, I want to remind you how important it is to get out and vote in the upcoming local election. Even though it’s not a presidential race, it’s our civic duty to make our voices heard—especially since lower turnout can allow unpopular measures to slip through.

On the ballot, you’ll find Issue 2, a proposed charter amendment that protects property owners by capping annual tax assessment increases at 3%. There’s also a renewal (plus a small 0.5 mil increase) for the Summit County Alcohol, Drug Addiction, and Mental Health Services levy, which hasn’t seen a raise in 18 years. If you live in Tallmadge, Springfield, or Cuyahoga Falls, your school districts are looking for property tax levies to improve schools. Barberton voters will see 19 charter amendments ranging from nonpartisan elections to tweaking director qualifications.

Polling locations have changed for several precincts—some are now permanently or temporarily closed—so I suggest double-checking where you’re supposed to vote. The Summit County Board of Elections has moved to 1050 E. Talmage Ave, next to the Ohio Means Jobs office. If you’re voting early in person, you’ll find it open from 8am to 5pm, Monday through Friday.

I want to stress that voting in local elections doesn’t take much time, and your voice matters. If you don’t cast your ballot, you lose your chance to complain about future outcomes! Election Day is November 4th, and as a bonus, the Akron Zoo is offering free admission for all guests from 11am to 4pm.

To find your polling location or get more details, check out the Board of Elections website or visit akronpodcast.com for links and further info.

We have some thing to vote for on Tuesday (especially if you own property).

If you enjoy the show, please support the show. Every little helps.

Key Ballot Issues in Summit County [00:42]

Get Out and Vote: Polling Locations and Changes [03:00]

Akron Zoo Free Admission Days [07:12]

New Raising Cane's Coming to Bath [08:16]

Government Shutdown and SNAP Emergency Funding [09:28]

Crackdown on Street Takeovers in Ellet [12:01]

Daylight Saving Time Reminder [13:58]

Summit Mall 60th Anniversary and New Stores [14:18]

Travis Kelce Invests in Cedar Point [15:57]

Tragic Shooting in South Akron [17:05]

Operation Double Eagle Targets Violent Crime [18:09]

Upcoming Concerts and Events in Akron [19:30]

Takeaways:

• Voting is crucial this Tuesday, especially when there are local issues on the ballot.
• There are significant changes to polling locations, so double-check where to vote now.
• A proposed amendment could protect property owners from hefty tax increases, capped at 3%.
• Several local school districts are seeking property tax levies for better funding and services.
• Election Day is free admission day at the zoo, a great excuse to vote and enjoy some animals!
• Remember, if you don't vote, you lose the right to complain about local issues later.

Links referenced in this episode:

• akronpodcast.com
• https://www.boe.ohio.gov/summit/precinct-and-polling-location-info/ (where to vote)
• akronzoo.org
• akroncantonfoodbank.org
• Support the...