❌ HB517
Regards special assessments for shade trees
Summary
The bill amends section 727.011 of the Revised Code to allow municipalities to establish districts for the control, planting, maintenance, trimming, and removal of shade trees in public rights-of-way. It permits the levy of special assessments on real property within these districts to cover costs, with exemptions for certain nonprofit land conservation organizations. The ordinance must be published and can involve the issuance of bonds for anticipated assessments.
Rationale
The bill involves government-imposed special assessments for tree maintenance, which conflicts with Libertarian principles of minimal government intervention and property rights. It establishes a mandatory financial obligation on property owners, undermining the Libertarian stance against government overreach and taxation.
Risks and Concerns
- Increased government control over property
- Potential for misuse of funds raised through assessments
- Encouragement of cronyism in municipal contracts