September 23, 2022

UPDATE AT A GLANCE

ANNUAL CONFERENCE: EARLY BIRD ENDS TODAY, DISCOUNTED HOTEL RATES AVAILABLE THROUGH WEDNESDAY

OML announced earlier this week that the early bird pricing for the Annual Conference was extended -- but ends today, Friday, Sept. 23. The time window to book hotel rooms at the group rate was also extended and lasts through 5 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 28. Whether you're most looking forward to the Ohio Statehouse tour, legislative updates, networking with colleagues, the variety of session topics, or being entertained by our comedian / magician, we're looking forward to seeing you at the conference! More Info

OML TO HOST WEBINAR ON DOWNTOWN REVITALIZATION

OML is hosting a webinar on Downtown Revialization at 11 a.m. on Sept. 29. Featuring Bricker & Eckler Partner Colin Kalvas, this session will discuss the municipal incentives and tools that can be used to encourage reinvestment in areas ready for redevelopment, with an emphasis on how these tools can be used to meet specific local policy goals. Register

OML MEMBERS CAN RECEIVE DISCOUNT FOR OHIO ENERGY CONFERENCE

The Ohio Energy Conference has graciously offered to provide OML members with a $100 discount to the conference taking place Nov. 15-16. Given the rise of global energy costs, the rapidly expanding portfolio of responsibilities for municipalities of all sizes, and the flow of funding for energy infrastructure out of Washington D.C., we hope that the forum of this event will provide significant value for all involved. Use code OML100. Register

LATEST RECIPIENTS OF VIOLENT CRIME REDUCTION GRANTS ANNOUNCED

Governor DeWine announced that 13 local law enforcement agencies will receive a total of $8.2 million to help them prevent and investigate incidents of violent crime in their communities. Recipients include the police departments of Canton, Elyria, Lakewood, Riverside, Fostoria, Hamersville, Hamilton, and New Matamoras. More Info

CLEAN WATERSHED NEEDS SURVEY RESPONSES DUE OCT. 28

In October, the Ohio EPA will be collecting data from communities and sewer systems as part of USEPA's Clean Watersheds Needs Survey, which identifies wastewater and water quality infrastructure needs. The survey is important as it can influence the funding allocated to states for water quality improvements. Survey emails will be sent to those who serve less than 10,000 with a link to submit an online form, while those who serve more than 10,000 will receive a survey form with instructions to submit supporting documentation. Questions can be submitted to CWNS@epa.ohio.gov.

APPLICATION PERIOD OPEN FOR FOR SMART AND ATTAIN GRANTS

The U.S. Department of Transportation is accepting applications for two programs that will make approximately $160 million available annually for the next five years for projects that use technology to improve our transportation infrastructure and make communities safer. Applications for the Strengthening Mobility and Revolutionizing Transportation (SMART) Grants Program and Advanced Transportation Technology and Innovation (ATTAIN) Program are due Nov. 18. More Info 

APPLICATION PERIOD OPEN FOR STATE AND LOCAL CYBERSECURITY GRANTS

The U.S Department of Homeland Security is accepting applications for the State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Program that will provide $1 billion in funding over four years, with $185 million available for FY22, to support efforts to address cyber risk to your information systems. As part of this notice of funding opportunity, local governments are eligible sub-recipients through their respective states. Applications are due Nov. 15. More Info

NLC LEGISLATION UPDATE

Some U.S. senators are pushing to attach the “Financial Data Transparency Act of 2022” to the mandatory, end-of-year National Defense Authorization Act. This provision would establish new financial data standards that would apply to local governments and serve as an unfunded mandate. More Info  

SAMPLE RESOLUTIONS, ORDINANCES AVAILABLE

As a reminder to OML members, sample resolutions and ordinances on a variety of topics can be attained through the Ohio Municipal Attorneys Association (OMAA). The OMAA has a listserv that allows group members to ask questions and collaborate -- including example legislation that has been used in various municipalities. OMAA is a subsidiary of OML.