Wilkin Gives an Update on the State Capital Budget Process

COLUMBUS—State Senator Shane Wilkin (R-Hillsboro) is giving an update to community partners across the 17th Senate District on the state's Capital Budget and One-Time Strategic Community Investment Fund:

Every two years, the Ohio Legislature passes a Capital Budget Bill supporting local community projects and infrastructure. This year, the General Assembly has an additional $700 million available for projects across the state, thanks to the “One-Time Strategic Community Investment Fund” created in House Bill 33, last year’s operating budget.

Throughout my time in the Ohio House of Representatives and the Ohio Senate, I have fought hard to obtain funding for projects in my district, and I plan to continue that work this year. In order to do so, my office needs your project applications!

Historically, Capital Budget funds have only been allocated to projects that meet specific qualifications. However, projects awarded money through the One-Time Strategic Community Investment Funding (OTSCIF) will not need to meet the same qualifications. As long as your project invests in your local community and is transformational, you will be considered for funding.

With the Ohio House's passage of House Bill 2 last week, there has been some confusion about the status of this process. It's important to clarify that no funding has been guaranteed for any projects through HB 2. Therefore, projects seeking funding through the Capital Budget or OTSCIF should submit a funding application through the Senate, even if your project was allocated all or some requested funds in House Bill 2. My office's deadline to submit applications is Monday, April 8th, 2024. Please reach out to me at wilkin@ohiosenate.gov or 614-466-8156 for an application, or if you have any questions about this process.