WARREN — Warren City Council voted unanimously Wednesday to support State Issue 2, a proposed constitutional amendment that would renew Ohio’s State Capital Improvements Program (SCIP), set to appear on the May 6 statewide primary ballot.

The resolution, passed as an emergency measure as members argued the program’s critical role in funding road repairs, bridge maintenance and water infrastructure projects without raising taxes.

If approved, the renewal would authorize $2.5 billion in state bonds over 10 years to continue financing local infrastructure needs.

Since its creation in 1987, SCIP has directed $7 billion toward infrastructure projects across Ohio, including $23 million for Warren alone. Council members highlighted past projects funded by SCIP, such as:

• Mahoning Avenue waterline replacement ($450,000).

• Warren Street Reconstruction ($268,200).

• Parkman Road Reconstruction ($743,500).

“This is a renewal, not a new tax,” said Councilman Todd Johnson, I-1st Ward, urging fellow leaders to rally public support. “We need to get the word out to voters.”

Councilman Michael O’Brien, D-At Large, stressed the economic impact, noting that SCIP-funded projects create jobs, improve public safety and attract business development.

He cited the Mahoning Avenue waterline project as a key example of how SCIP dollars directly benefit residents.

What happens if the measure fails? The current SCIP authorization expires July 1, 2025.

Without renewal, council members warn the city could face a funding gap, delaying critical infrastructure work.

“If you want safer roads and continued improvements, vote yes,” O’Brien said. “A ‘no’ vote means those improvements stop.”

Warren’s resolution aligns with the Strong Ohio Communities coalition, a bipartisan group advocating for Issue 2’s passage.

The amendment requires no tax increases and has been approved by voters three times since 1987.

Early voting is underway with Election Day on May 6.