Municipal governments have some freedom to govern without being under the thumb of the state or federal government. Home rule is the concept that the city has a right to operate under its own rules as a separate entity from the other levels of government. This power...
Municipal Law
Ohio’s Open Meetings Act and compliance issues
Officials holding local or municipal board meetings must allow the public to attend and observe. Under the Open Meetings Act, Ohio residents may watch and listen to public officials during business or decision-making discussions. The Act applies to all individuals of...
What makes a municipal contract meaningful?
Citizens in Ohio rely on elected officials to act on their behalf when creating and enforcing municipal contracts. This creates a lot of pressure for you and your cohorts to think wisely about which relationships to pursue. Knowing which practices will elevate the...
What are solar easements?
Solar power represents one of the many ways homeowners have access to renewable energy. Once you have a solar system it makes sense to want to catch as much of the sun's rays as possible. There exist protections at the state and municipal level that help with this. It...
How should I pursue a zoning permit?
As a property owner in Westerville, you have to deal with the city if you wish to develop a home or a commercial building. The city’s zoning laws will be of special concern. Zoning organizes the community into specific districts based upon the intensity and use of...
What are the guidelines for a municipal credit card use agreement?
When a municipality has a credit card, monitoring and managing its use is imperative. The money spent on a card belongs to the people, so spending cannot happen without strict guidelines and rules. The Legislative Service Commission explains any Ohio municipality with...
How can you improve municipal contracts?
Given that municipalities in Ohio involve a community's well-being, municipal contracts play a considerable role in community development. Making sure that your municipal agreements meet the expectations of everyone involved is an ongoing process. Knowing some...
Understanding Ohio Sunshine Laws
The public has a right to hear and learn what goes on in their government. However, sometimes local, state and federal governments do not provide the transparency that their constituents deserve. The state of Ohio has passed two laws to help combat this issue. Known...
Why is transparency in local government important?
Transparency in local government means ensuring the public has access to all information about all actions of officials. Diligent Insights explains transparency, especially in local governments, is essential to avoid problems and issues with the public. Trust The...
What are some ordinances pertaining to property in Westerville?
To keep the peace, avoid disagreements between neighbors and ensure community safety, every municipality has laws and rules in place for its inhabitants. The City of Westerville highlights some Westerville Codified Ordinances that it has in place for common issues...