Shop Clermont County

Distributed by Kathy Lehr, Clermont County Communications Director

"When citizens eat at local restaurants and shop at retail businesses across Clermont County, it directly benefits the community they call home," said Clermont Commission President Ed Humphrey.  "A portion of the money you spend for these services is returned to the county to fund local government services, including the Sheriff's Office, Clermont Jail, Clermont Communications Center, and court system."

The sales and use tax is state government's second largest source of revenue and is an important revenue source for county government.  The current state tax rate is 5.5 percent; Clermont County, like most counties across the state, has a 1 percent permissive tax that is levied when you buy retail items at local stores or eat at local restaurants.  The county also receives 1 percent of the sales tax paid on all vehicles purchased by and titled to Clermont County citizens, no matter where the cars or trucks are purchased.  The county relies on these sales tax revenues to fund over 40 percent of its general services; it is the largest source of revenue in the county's general fund.

"Buying locally not only results in your sales tax dollars staying here to help provide local government services, but benefits your local business owner, and provides employment for your neighbors," said Clermont County Administrator David Spinney.

"A township's identity is created by hometown business," said Goshen Township Trustee Mike Keeley.  "These shops and restaurants create the charm and community that lure new residents and other businesses. Without them, Clermont County would lose its individuality and character. Supporting these businesses is like supporting family and friends."

"When I buy groceries for my family or purchase clothes or items for my home, I shop at local stores first," said Kim Parnes of Miami Township.  "I'm always amazed at how many unique businesses we have locally." 

Every week, hundreds of people visit Harmony Hill Vineyards in Tate Township.  "People come from all over Ohio, Kentucky, and Indiana to enjoy the local winery; many also patronize local restaurants and businesses during their visit," said Bethel Vice Mayor Donna Gunn.  "Buying local not only stimulates the local economy, but when communities and citizens support those establishments, it encourages others to open businesses in a welcoming environment!"

"Milford's small town charm is due, in part, to a vibrant historic Main Street," said Milford City Manager Loretta Rokey.  "Our success depends upon loyal repeat customers from the surrounding area who enjoy the diversity and personal service that Milford's Main Street provides." 

"With the diversity of local businesses here, there isn't a need for people to drive across town to dine or shop," said Chris Hamm, owner of Latitudes Café and Buffalo Harry's in Milford.  "We are seeing a growing number of local people and those from neighboring counties and states visiting our establishments; lots are repeat customers.  Many local residents are also choosing to shops and dine locally as a way to conserve energy."

"The Clermont Chamber of Commerce is an advocate of spending local, because the initial change in demand for goods and services causes greater aggregate spending within the local economy," said Clermont Chamber President Matthew Van Sant.  "This additional economic output provides greater opportunity for employment for our residents, stimulates private sector investment, and increases local tax revenues, causing an improvement in quality of life for those in Clermont County."

Nationally, job losses, foreclosures, and related issues have made our economy stagnate.  "Like most counties we are seeing a steady decline in sales tax revenues," said Clermont Office of Management and Budget Director Sukie Scheetz.  "In 2007, we received $21.1 million from the sales tax; the number dropped by $600,000 for 2008, and in 2009, we are anticipating the tax will generate only $19.6 million."

"Clearly, if these projections hold true, and our economy doesn't start to pick up, we will be forced to cut services that directly impact our citizens," said Humphrey.  "By patronizing local businesses, we help increase sales tax revenues, resulting in the creation and retention of local jobs.  When possible, we encourage citizens to spend their hard earned dollars locally.  It really does benefit those of us who call this beautiful area home."

Check out the official flyer!

New flyer released for September!

This campaign is seeking other Clermont County families to be featured on upcoming flyers. If you think your family is the perfect fit, contact Rebecca Kimble by calling (513) 732-7597 or by E-mail.