R
oss County Auditor Jeff Lehner has announced a significant reduction in real estate fees for Ross County subdivisions. As part of the second half 2025 property tax levy distribution, the Auditor's office will waive approximately $450,000 in fees. This move follows similar actions in 2023 and 2024, resulting in nearly $1.5 million being added to budgets for local school districts, townships, and other taxing jurisdictions.

    Since taking office, Lehner has cut and returned nearly $1.5 million in excess fees from the Auditor's real estate office budget. This effort is part of his goal to create a more efficient and responsive Ross County government. Each year, county auditors in Ohio calculate levy revenues and distribute them accordingly, withholding a fee for the Auditor's office operations.

    Lehner explained that while he would prefer to return these funds directly to taxpayers, state law requires fees be spent or returned through taxing districts' governing authorities. By returning the fees to local jurisdictions, Lehner aims to prevent waste on unnecessary initiatives and stand up for taxpayers. Ross County residents can reach out to Auditor Lehner with questions at [email protected].