VIENNA TWP., Ohio - 'Where Does the Money Come From?'

That was the question Vienna finance officials discussed when it comes to how they spend local and state dollars.

The Township's fiscal officer called a meeting to offer transparency and clarity into the revenue sources, as the state audit investigation into the township's missing $1.3 million continues.

Vienna's Assistance Fiscal Officer Tom Shay said the township still owes $1.3 million in missing dollars. Corrine Hardman was sworn in as the township's fiscal officer in early June. This makes her the third person to hold the title in 2024. 

"We could just collect taxes and just kind of stay as we are," he told the crowd. "Speed cameras could generate revenue or we could raise property taxes."

The township is not looking to raise property taxes but continues to look for ways to earn back those missing dollars. 

It's recommended the 2024 budget hovers around $616k. Shay explained the general fund in the township is comprised of property tax revenue, totaling $206k a year. Other sources of revenue include a cable franchise fee of $110k, fines totaling $46k, and a local government fund of $51k.

The township believes manned speed cameras could earn the township as much as $40k a year. Half of the dollars would go towards the general fund and half into the police fund.

Shay could not point out where the $1.3 million is missing from.

This meeting comes as the township is sitting at just over $200k in its account, according to Shay.

A fiscal emergency is still possible, if the state deems the township's finances at continued risk.