State Representative Marlene Anielski (R-Independence) recently announced that the Ohio House of Representatives passed House Bill 347, a cost-saving measure that gives statutory non-chartered villages the option to reduce their current number of council members from six members to five. It also includes a provision that provides flexibility to create concurrent, rather than staggered terms for the councils’ elected members.

Sponsored by Representative Anielski, the bill authorizes the legislative authority to reduce its membership by a vote of the legislative authority or by petition. Currently, these authorities are composed of six members with staggered terms who have no ability to alter the composition if needed.

Additionally, H.B. 347 outlines the types of sporting events eligible for state grants based on projected sales tax increases and streamlines the process of receiving a grant by permitting local organizing committees to apply for grants on behalf of the county or municipal corporation.

"The bill simply offers flexibility with another option for local governments to save money," Representative Anielski said. “It is one more tool that villages can utilize amidst tight budgeting periods, and I’m pleased that it passed in both chambers unanimously. In addition, opportunities are now given for national and international competitions to come to Ohio."

House Bill 347 passed in both the House and the Senate and is now headed to the Governor’s office for his signature to become law.