Friday, Nov. 14: State Patrol Arrests + New Banks Vision + Hamilton Co. Tax Proposal
Friday, Nov. 14
Your local news briefing
5 Headlines You Should Know Today
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State patrol partnership nets 23 felony arrests amid downtown crime concerns
In response to staffing shortages and rising crime in Downtown Cincinnati and Over-the-Rhine, the Ohio State Highway Patrol has joined Cincinnati police for five joint operations since mid-September. The state-funded effort targets gun and drug offenses and has resulted in 23 felony arrests so far, with discussions underway about extending the partnership beyond year’s end.
New vision for The Banks aims to transform underused riverfront
City and county leaders will review a refreshed master plan for The Banks next week, focusing on long-vacant lots near Paycor Stadium. Early concepts include a high-rise residential tower, a new hotel, and turning Freedom Way into a pedestrian-friendly boulevard — a move business owners hope will draw visitors beyond game days.
Hamilton County weighs transfer tax hike to help plug budget gap
Selling property in Hamilton County could soon cost more under a proposal to raise the real estate transfer tax by one mill — $1 per $1,000 of sale price. Administrator Jeff Aluotto says the change would generate $4.7 million a year, with most supporting general services and the rest boosting affordable housing. Public hearings on the county’s $402.4 million budget are set for Dec. 2 and 9.
Charges dropped against reporter arrested at Roebling Bridge protest
All charges have been dropped against CityBeat reporter Madeline Fening, who was arrested in July while covering a protest on the Roebling Suspension Bridge. Initially accused of felony rioting, Fening’s case drew sharp criticism from press advocates. The ACLU of Kentucky welcomed her exoneration, saying journalists must be free to document public demonstrations.
Shelters launch $9.99 Black Friday pet adoptions to ease overcrowding
Several Greater Cincinnati animal shelters are teaming up for a Black Friday adoption event, offering fully vetted cats and dogs for $9.99 on Nov. 28–29. SPCA Cincinnati, League for Animal Welfare, Ohio Alleycat Resource, and partners in the Dayton area hope to relieve overcrowding and connect pets with families — while reminding adopters that bringing an animal home is a lifelong commitment.
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