Mill Creek bike trail plans in jeopardy after state budget approval
A proposed state law that would prohibit park districts from using eminent domain to create bike paths is on its way to Governor Mike DeWine's desk.
State Representative Al Cutrona announced the development Monday night.
The legislation is part of the new two-year state budget, which was given final approval by the legislature this evening.
The eminent domain issue was advanced by Cutrona (R-Canfield) in response to concerns from Valley residents. '
Cutrona says the law protects residents from government overreach.
"I'm hoping that Governor DeWine will go ahead and sign it and give some relief to these local farmers and residents," Cutrona said to 21 News on Tuesday. "There's too much government overreach and this is a great opportunity to put that big government in check."
The legislation prohibits the Mill Creek Park district in Mahoning County from using eminent domain to appropriate property for recreational bike trails.
"This is a common-sense proposal, it's been debated and it's time to get it done," Cutrona said. "This will better protect property rights and it's the right thing to do."
The bike trail proposal would cut into 13 people's private property.
The eminent domain issue is one of several issues included in House Bill 110, the state budget bill.
"Historically, Governor DeWine's always been pro-local control," Cutrona said. "So, I'm very hopeful that he'll come through and sign it."
The two-year state budget also includes a 3 percent across the board income tax cut; funding to support veterans, first responders and law enforcement, including $15 million for police training; and a series of measures to help keep and create jobs in the Valley and across Ohio.
Other items of the budget include the Fair School Funding Plan, to reform school funding; and $250 million for broadband internet access.
The new state budget must be in place by June 30.
21 News reached out to Mill Creek Park and Executive Director, Aaron Young, said they will not comment until Governor DeWine approves the state budget.
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