Lorain Times

State Representative Gayle Manning of Ohio's House District 52 has expressed support for renewing a longstanding infrastructure program, emphasizing that it will aid essential local projects without raising taxes.

"Vote YES for Issue 2 on May 6th," said Manning, House Representative. "Issue 2 will continue the State Capital Improvements Program, which has existed since 1987, and help support the completion of critically important road, bridge, sewer, & other infrastructure projects in local communities, with zero tax increases."

The State Capital Improvements Program (SCIP), established in 1987, enables Ohio to finance crucial infrastructure projects through the issuance of general obligation bonds. According to Knox Pages, voters have repeatedly renewed the program, and Issue 2 on the May 2025 ballot proposes authorizing up to $2.5 billion in new bonds over ten years. This measure would increase annual funding from $200 million to $250 million while maintaining current tax levels, thereby continuing support for upgrades to roads, water systems, sewers, and public facilities across all 88 counties.

According to the Ohio House of Representatives, since its inception, SCIP has facilitated approximately 19,000 infrastructure grants and loans benefiting every county in Ohio. In the past decade alone, nearly 4,500 projects have been completed, including road repaving, bridge repairs, and water treatment enhancements. These investments are crucial for local governments to sustain vital public services.

Economic forecasts related to Issue 2 suggest that renewing SCIP could generate around 35,000 construction jobs throughout Ohio. The Ohio Secretary of State’s office reports that these projects not only bolster infrastructure resilience but also invigorate economic activity by creating employment and contracting opportunities statewide. These benefits form a central argument for proponents of the initiative.

Manning has consistently prioritized infrastructure and education policy during her tenure as a Republican legislator representing Ohio’s 52nd District. Her official biography on the Ohio House website notes her previous service in the Senate and her distinction as the first woman elected Speaker Pro Tempore of the House. Manning has supported numerous capital funding initiatives focused on roadwork development grants and infrastructure legislation.