RAGC Applauds Commissioner Reece’s Leadership, Calls for Countywide Property Tax Relief Action

The REALTOR® Alliance of Greater Cincinnati (RAGC) is applauding Hamilton County Commissioner Alicia Reece for her leadership in calling for immediate property tax relief for homeowners.

In a letter sent this week to the Hamilton County Board of Commissioners, RAGC’s Board President DaVan Gassett, Incoming President Rob Streicher, and President-Elect Jason Kunkel urged the Commission to take bold, data-driven action to protect homeowners from rising tax burdens.

Commissioner Reece’s recent motion directs the county administration to explore doubling the local homestead exemption for seniors and residents with permanent disabilities and to evaluate options for reducing the county’s inside millage—a move that could provide immediate, tangible relief.

“This is exactly the type of proactive leadership Hamilton County needs,” said RAGC President DaVan Gassett. “We’re seeing homeowners—especially seniors and working families—facing enormous pressure from escalating property valuations. Local action can make a real difference.”

RAGC’s letter cites Butler County’s $50 million property tax relief initiative, which rolled back half of its inside millage and expanded its homestead program, saving the average homeowner about $100 per $100,000 in assessed value. The group encouraged Hamilton County to follow that example to stabilize neighborhoods, preserve home equity, and ease pressure on vulnerable populations.

According to recent data from the Hamilton County Auditor, property valuations have risen by more than 28% since 2020, while household incomes have grown at less than half that pace. Rising assessments, without relief, threaten long-term housing affordability and economic stability for many residents.

RAGC reiterated its commitment to work alongside county leaders to model fiscal impacts, engage residents, and communicate policy options clearly and transparently.

“Property tax stability isn’t just a fairness issue—it’s a foundation for strong communities,” said Incoming President Rob Streicher. “This is a moment for courage and compassion in leadership.”

Read the full letter to the Hamilton County Commissioners [here].