We are looking into Cincinnati’s use of State & Local Fiscal Recovery Funds, which were the pandemic relief funds specifically directed to local governments Most people are probably under the impression that the “COVID money” for cities were intended to help the cities just “keep the lights on.” That is not the case. The […]
In this episode of Citizen Watchdog, Todd Zinser discusses the complexities of taxation in Cincinnati, focusing on the recent tax increases, historical context, and the implications of government spending. He critiques the current city council’s approach to managing taxes and budgets, emphasizing the need for fiscal responsibility and transparency in public finance. The conversation also […]
The Cincinnati Oversight Project was established in January 2026 to promote transparency and accountability in local government in Hamilton County, Ohio. Building on independent research, commentary, and public records work through Citizen Watchdog with Todd Zinser, the Project seeks to demonstrate how effective oversight can improve government performance, strengthen institutional culture, and better protect the […]
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2132 T TTB city council 12.14.22 90-2022 TTB Ordinance 12.14.22 For over 20 years, the city kept its share of the property tax assessments “rolled back” from the 6.1 mills maximum established by the city charter. In 2022, just before the increased property assessments took effect, the city council quickly and quietly eliminated the roll […]
Nonprofit Research & Transparency Websites Final 12.31.25 One of the first things that got my attention with Cincinnati’s budget was the list of non-profit organizations that were receiving “leveraged support” from the city. I wondered then and still wonder now, how the city ensures that the money granted to these organizations is used […]
SLFRF-2025-Recovery-Plan-Performance-Report_Monica-Morton City-Of-Cincinnati-Ohio_2024-Recovery-Plan_SLT-1806 The city council covered a lot of ground about the city’s current and future finances during their two December meetings. The narrative about the projected $30 million budget deficit and the open talk about an earnings tax increase signal where the city government is headed – an earnings tax increase. […]
I am just beginning to populate this folder with fraud reports about other jurisdictions. The thinking is that those frauds occurring in other U.S. cities could also be happening in Cincinnati. So, let’s keep track of some of the fraud schemes out there that have been perpetrated on state and local governments and government subsidiaries […]
Southern District of Ohio _ Former Clermont housing official pleads guilty to federal program theft _ United States Department of Justice The case is several years old, but the Ohio Auditor of State just issued a final report in June 2025. Since it is close to home, involving the (now former) director of the […]
When was the last time you heard anyone in City Hall criticizing the academic work of the University of Cincinnati for ANYTHING? And on top of that, have at least two members of city council cheering about it? Probably never before. Well, that is what took place at the December 8th meeting of city council’s […]