economic development

The Economic Development Department is dedicated to fostering and enhancing the City of Obetz’s economic growth. Our team works diligently to attract and retain businesses, support local entrepreneurs, and create jobs throughout the city. By engaging in strategic planning, offering incentive programs, and facilitating partnerships between the public and private sectors, we aim to improve the overall economic health of our community.

Incentive Programs

The City of Obetz actively supports the expansion of existing businesses and aggressively pursues new business ventures. The city offers a range of local programs and provides assistance to companies seeking state incentives.

In addition to the programs listed below, Obetz offers a variety of customized incentive programs tailored to specific projects. We will work with your company to make Obetz your new home.

COMMUNITY REINVESTMENT AREA PROGRAM

The City of Obetz Community Reinvestment Area program is an economic development tool that provides real property tax exemptions for property owners who renovate existing buildings or construct new ones. The program is divided into two distinct categories: those created prior to July 1994 (“pre-1994”) and those created after. Eligible companies can receive abatement on new real estate property taxes for up to 15 years at a 100% exemption.

TAX INCREMENT FINANCING DISTRICTS

Tax Increment Financing (TIF) is an economic development mechanism employed by the City of Obetz to finance public infrastructure improvements and, in certain circumstances, residential rehabilitation. A TIF works by locking in the taxable value of real property at the value it holds at the time the authorizing legislation is approved. Payments derived from the increased assessed value of any improvements to real property beyond that amount are directed towards a separate fund to finance the construction of public infrastructure defined within the TIF legislation.

MUNICIPAL UTILITY SERVICES

The City of Obetz is one of the few municipalities in the State of Ohio that operates its own water, electric, and gas utility systems. This unique advantage allows Obetz to offer extremely competitive utility rates.

STATE PROGRAMS

The State of Ohio offers a variety of tax incentive programs. For more information on state programs visit the Ohio Department of Development’s website.

THE BENEFITS OF WORKING IN OBETZ

The City of Obetz treats employees who work in the city the same as residents when it comes to special access and low fees (often free) for the use of City facilities. This includes amenities such as the Obetz Athletic Club, Fortress Obetz, Obetz Conference Center, Dixon Quarry Pavilion, Splash Pad, and Ice Rink. Employees also enjoy the benefits of our youth sports programs, with home fields located at Fortress Obetz. Despite having top-notch facilities, our registration prices for youth programs remain more affordable than anywhere else.