File #: R-540-22    Version: 1 Name:
Type: Resolution Status: Tabled
File created: 10/18/2022 In control: City Council
On agenda: 10/25/2022 Final action: 10/25/2022
Title: Expressing Toledo City Council support for Ohio Issue 1, on the November 8 ballot; and declaring an emergency.
Sponsors: George Sarantou, Theresa Morris
Label
Council Members Sarantou and Morris

Title
Expressing Toledo City Council support for Ohio Issue 1, on the November 8 ballot; and declaring an emergency.

Summary
WHEREAS, currently the Ohio Supreme Court has the authority to set the rules on determining bail amounts for the trial courts, according to the Constitution; and

WHEREAS, currently in Ohio, public safety is considered only as a separate issue if the prosecutor files a separate motion for higher bail in a detention hearing; and

WHEREAS, the Ohio Constitution prohibits excessive bail or excessive fines; ability to pay becomes the primary consideration; and

WHEREAS, Issue 1 will require the courts to use factors such as public safety, which includes the seriousness of the crime, a person's past criminal history and the likelihood they will return to appear in court; and

WHEREAS, throughout Ohio, there are several documented cases, of people being released on their own recognizance only to commit another serious weapons offense within hours or days of release; and

WHEREAS, people are tired of being afraid of the increase of crimes against persons and deserve to feel safe in their communities knowing that their safety and wellbeing has been considered when a Judge sets bail; and

WHEREAS, Issue 1 will allow public safety to be a consideration in every bail hearing, and the public will know their security is in the forefront of the Judge's decision; NOW, THEREFORE,

Be it resolved by the Council of the City of Toledo:

SECTION 1. That Toledo City Council expresses its support for the Constitutional Amendment on bail reform on the November 8 ballot, Issue 1.

SECTION 2. That this Resolution is declared to be an emergency measure necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, safety and property of the City, and for the further reason that this Resolution is required to be immediately effective in order...

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