GCP Board votes to support two ballot issues and tax credit legislation for film production companies

Thursday, September 25, 2008

Cleveland, September 25, 2008 - The Greater Cleveland Partnership Board of Directors voted at its meeting held earlier this month to support two November ballot issues, the  Cuyahoga County Public Library levy and the Clean Ohio Fund-Statewide Issue 2.

The library's 2.5-mill levy will help the library keep pace with the growing demand for its services. Ranked first in quality among institutions that service 500,000 people or more, it lends more than 16 million books and other materials annually. The Clean Ohio Fund has been an important tool for redeveloping brownfields in the city and preserving green space in the region. Issue 2 calls for the renewal of bonding authority that currently exists and is not a new tax.

The GCP Board also voted to support Ohio House Bill 196, which would authorize a 25 percent tax credit for production companies that film in Ohio and spend at least $300,000. The legislation, introduced by Rep. Tom Patton (R-Strongsville), is currently pending in the Ohio House and has not yet reached the Senate, but there is support to move on the legislation during the lame duck session.  The producers of a major motion picture about the infamous "torso murders" that occurred in Cleveland during the days of Elliott Ness have committed to bring this work to Cleveland, if the legislation is enacted. It's estimated that this film alone could result in a $75 million impact for Cleveland.

The Greater Cleveland Partnership, the primary voice for businesses in Greater Cleveland, seeks to create jobs and improve the economic vitality of the region. On behalf of its more than 17,700 members, the GCP advocates with one voice; advances small business success; accelerates economic inclusion; builds a high-impact, sustainable economic development system; changes the face of Cleveland; strengthens global connections; and initiates a demand-driven talent system.  The GCP is a founder and proud supporter of the Cleveland Plus marketing campaign.http://www.gcpartnership.com

Back to News