policy
Akron Voters to Decide Half-Cent Sales Tax Increase for Roads
Voters will decide on a half-cent sales tax increase that would raise the combined rate to 7 percent and direct new revenue to street repairs and public safety equipment starting in 2027.
How we reported this
The city of Akron has placed a referendum on the November 3 2026 ballot that would increase the local sales tax by 0.5 percentage points if approved by a majority of voters. The measure would apply to taxable purchases made within city limits and generate funds for capital projects listed in the accompanying city ordinance.
City budget documents show that Akron faces a projected shortfall in its capital improvement plan for the 2027 fiscal year, with road resurfacing and bridge work among the line items most affected. The referendum responds to that gap by creating a dedicated revenue stream rather than drawing from the general fund, according to the finance department summary released in June.
Effects on Household Purchases and City Services
Residents who buy groceries, clothing and household goods in Akron would pay the higher rate at checkout. A household with $800 in monthly taxable spending would face an additional $4 per month under the new rate. The ordinance directs 60 percent of the new revenue to street and sidewalk repairs in residential neighborhoods and 40 percent to police and fire equipment purchases.
Local delivery drivers and small retailers operating inside city boundaries would collect the tax on point-of-sale transactions. City records indicate that Summit County already administers sales tax collection, so no new administrative staff would be required if the measure passes.
Next Steps and Implementation Timeline
Ballots will be mailed to registered voters beginning October 12. If the referendum receives more than 50 percent approval, the tax increase would take effect January 1 2027 and remain in place for ten years unless renewed by a future vote. The city council would then adopt a spending plan each spring that identifies specific projects funded by the levy.
Policy analysts note that similar levies in other Ohio cities have produced between $8 million and $12 million annually depending on retail sales volume. Akron officials have stated that annual audits of the new fund would be posted on the city website within 90 days of each fiscal year end.