COLUMBUS — The Ohio House of Representatives passed Substitute House Bill 2, the state’s two-year budget for capital projects, State Rep. Jenna Powell (R-Arcanum) announced recently. This year’s capital budget included a one-time allocation of $717 million which was spent on funding community projects.

“I voted no on the final version of H.B. 2 due to excessive spending,” said Powell in a press release. “Our state should’ve passed a much more conservative budget, saved taxpayers money, and given a significant portion of Ohioans’ $717 million back to them in tax cuts.”

Powell secured the following capital investments that will positively impact Miami and Darke Counties and the surrounding region:

• $750,000 for the Western Ohio Regional Fire Training Facility;

• $120,000 for the Darke County Fish and Game Association;

• $500,000 for the renovation of the Edison State engineering lab and classroom;

• $500,000 for the renovation of the Edison State nursing wing;

• $45,000 for upgrades to the Miami Valley Veterans Museum;

• $100,000 for the Versailles Heritage Park;

• $50,000 to purchase new park equipment in the North Star Community Park with improved lighting to allow for safer recreational play;

• $20,000 to refurbish the Osgood Tennis Courts;

• $2,000,000 for the Troy Great Miami River recreation connectivity project.

“I work every day to provide our community with the resources it needs to thrive, and I proudly represent the values of those in my community,” said Powell. “We are facing financial hardships due to inflation and property tax rates. At a time where property taxes are skyrocketing and inflation is increasing, I voted no on HB 2 because $717 million taxpayer dollars should have been stewarded better.”

Substitute House Bill 2 awaits a signature from Gov. Mike DeWine.