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Family & Children First Council Wraparound

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1. What is Wraparound?

Wraparound is a process which develops and carries out plans for children, individuals and their families who have very complex needs. Families who have used traditional services may find Wraparound helpful in meeting the family's identified needs. The Wraparound process is implemented with the involvement of those people important to the family. Wraparound improves the lives of families by building on their strengths. It encourages them to make helpful, caring connections in the community. The Wraparound process ensures that services are focused on the needs of the individual and his or her family.

2. What are key elements of Wraparound?

Key elements are based on the strengths of the individual and the family and include:

• Access to flexible funding
• Community based
• Community owned
• Community supports working together
• Family voice encouraged
• Outcomes measured and evaluated
• Unconditional support

3. What can I expect?

A Team facilitator works with the family to identify four to ten people who know the family best. People involved can be family members, a minister, a close friend, a coach, or others that are natural supports to the family, along with agency personnel. These people form a family team. The team works together to achieve the goals chosen by the family.

Input

The individual family has:

• A choice about the services they receive
• A voice in the manner in which they receive services
• Ownership of decisions that affect their lives

The facilitator, trained in the Wraparound process, is responsible for keeping the team focused on the family's goals. The family works with the facilitator to ensure the plan is right for them.

4. How is this different?

The Family and Children First Council guides the Service Coordination/Wraparound process in our community. This Council includes parents, service providers, business leaders, and community representatives. The Family and Children First Council is committed to developing a strong working partnership with the local community and its members. Key differentiation includes:

• The family directs the plan
• The plans developed are flexible and unique to each family
• Plans that do not meet the needs of the family are changed

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Current Agricultural Use Value (C.A.U.V.)

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1. What are some of the major advantages of the C.A.U.V. program?

Major advantages include:

1. It provides tax relief on agricultural land.
2. If the tract of land contains woodland as well as cropland, the C.A.U.V. Law will often provide a greater tax relief than the Ohio Forest Tax Law because the law applies only to forest land acreage.
3. In some special circumstances, land currently under the C.A.U.V. program can lay idle for up to one year prior to being subject to recoupment.

2. What are some of the disadvantages?

Disadvantages include:

1. The owner must file annually to keep the exemption.
2. If the land use changes to non-agricultural, or if the owner fails to reapply for the C.A.U.V. program, there is a recoupment penalty equal to the past three years' tax savings.
3. Tracts under 10 acres can qualify only if the gross annual income from sales of agricultural products is at least $2,500.

3. Are all farms in Ohio used exclusively for agricultural purposes eligible to be taxed on their current agricultural use value?

Yes, if containing 10 acres or more. Those under 10 acres can qualify if the land has produced a gross income for the past three years of at least $2,500 each year or should reasonably be expected to product that much during the current year.

4. Will all farms be automatically reappraised on a C.A.U.V. basis?

No. Applications must be made each year at the Williams County Auditor's office.

5. What does an owner have to do to be taxed on the Current Agricultural Use Value?

File an application with the County Auditor on or after the first Monday in January and on or before the first Monday in March and pay a one time application fee of $25. There is no renewal fee.

6. What qualifies as land devoted exclusively to agricultural use?

Land devoted exclusively to agricultural use qualifications include:

• It qualifies if more than 10 acres were devoted exclusively to commercial production of filed crops; tobacco, fruit, vegetables, timber, nursery stock, ornamental trees, sod or flowers; or if it qualified for a land retirement or conservation program under an agreement with the federal government.
• If less than 10 acres, it qualifies if, during the past three years, it produced a gross income of at least $2,500 each year or has an anticipated gross income of such amount during the current year.

7. Do you have to own a farm for three years before you can apply?

No. The farm has to qualify, not the owner.

8. How often is real estate appraised for tax assessment purposes?

Reappraisals are done every six years and a review and adjustment is possible in the third calendar year following the reappraisal.

9. Is tax value the same as appraised value?

No. In Ohio, tax value, or tax assessed value, is 35% of the appraised market value.

10. How were farms valued before this law was enacted?

Before the law was enacted farms were appraised on the basis of their appraised market value.

11. How does C.A.U.V. appraisal differ from fair market value?

The fair market value approach depends upon the comparison of sales of similarly situated farms and where the highest and best use sets value. The C.A.U.V. method depends upon capitalizing the expected net income from farming.

12. Will some farms have lower appraised values using the C.A.U.V.?

Yes. The fair market value reflects what a buyer is willing to pay regardless of the farm's agricultural production capability.

13. Are the terms "tracts," "lots" and "parcels" used interchangeably?

For the purpose of this act they are.

14. Some land used exclusively for timber production has been taxed at a lower rate for many years. How does this affect the new act?

Woodland is not eligible for tax savings under both laws. An owner must choose one or the other. On parcels of 10 acres or more, timber qualifies for the C.A.U.V. program, meeting the commercial production test. However, you must submit a request for a Land Management program in writing to:
Tom Collins
Service Forester Division of Forestry
3357 County Road D
Swanton, OH 43558

15. What are the liabilities if incorrect information is given?

If you knowingly give false information on an application, you are guilty of a misdemeanor of the first degree.

16. What happens if the land is converted into a non-qualifying use?

The owner is required to pay back the tax difference. Recoupment, for a maximum of three years, is taxed under the C.A.U.V. method.

17. What causes one to become subject to recoupment?

Failure to reapply for C.A.U.V. tax appraisal or if a change in use occurs so that the land is not devoted exclusively to agricultural purposes.

18. Do golf courses qualify under C.A.U.V.?

Golf courses do not qualify.

19. Does raising race houses or saddle horses qualify?

Yes. This is a type of animal husbandry. However, a race track does not qualify.

20. Does a greenhouse qualify?

Yes. As long as it meets the C.A.U.V. income requirement

21. Does a garden store qualify?

A garden store does not qualify.

22. Does aquaculture qualify?

Yes, the raising of plants or animals as fish or shellfish in or under the sea, lake or river or other body of water.

23. Does apiculture qualify?

Yes. The raising and care of bees qualifies.

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Engineer's Office

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1. Does Williams County have zoning?

The county as a whole does not have Zoning.  There are a few townships that are zoned.  Zoning Page

2. How Do I Obtain a building permit?

Contact the Auditors Office.

3. How do I obtain a special hauling permit?

Special Hauling Permits can be downloaded, filled out, e-mailed, or returned to our office.

4. How do I pay my sanitary bill?

A sanitary payment may be made in person at the county engineer's office, mailed, dropped off in our drop box, or paid online which charges a transaction fee from the card service provider.  PAY MY BILL

5. Can I download GIS data such as parcel information?

Parcel data as well as other information is available for download through our GIS Hub.  All other inquires should be directed to Brian Fritsch.

6. How do I obtain a driveway permit?

Driveway Permits can be downloaded, filled out, e-mailed, or returned to our office. 

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Homestead Exemption

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1. Who is eligible for the Homestead Exemption?

To qualify for the Homestead Exemption you must:

1. Either be at least 65 years old during the year for which you first file, or be permanently and totally disabled (you may file your application the year in which you will become 65) for tax year 2017. 
   1. Because of a change in state law, beginning in calendar 2014, homestead exemption applicants will be subject to an income means test. The limit for tax year 2020 (payable 2021) is $33,600 (Ohio adjusted gross income - line 3 on tax return). For 2021 (payable 2022) the limit is $34,200. (Homestead recipients prior to 2014 are not subject to the income test).
2. Or be a Veteran declared 100% disabled due to service connected disability (no means test). Download the Veteran’s Homestead Application (PDF).
3. As of January 1 of the filing year, own and occupy your home (or manufactured home) in Williams County as your principle place of residence.

If there is more than one owner of a property, the one who first reaches age 65 should file the application.

2. What is the definition of "permanently and totally disabled"?

Section 4503.064 of the Revised Code defines "permanently and totally disabled" as "a person who has some impairment in body or mind that makes him unfit to work at any substantially remunerative employment where he is reasonably able to perform and which will, with reasonable probability, continue for an indefinite period of at least 12 months"

An appropriate certificate of disability form (PDF) must be completed and signed by a licensed physician or psychologist (or a copy of the Social Security Disability notice of award letter) and submitted with the Homestead Exemption application.

3. Are there other requirements for the Homestead Exemption?

Other requirements include:

1. The applicant's name must appear on the deed to the property. Only one (1) homestead application is allowed per property.
2. If the property is being purchased under a land contract, owned by a revocable or irrevocable trust, owned by a legal entity other than a person, or is owned under a life estate, a copy of the deed to the home and copies of any contracts, trust agreements or other documents must be provided to identify the applicant's ownership interest in the home, and/or applicant's eligibility.

4. When can I apply?

Applications for the homestead program may be filed beginning the first Monday in January until the first Monday in June each year. Since manufactured home-owners pay their taxes currently, they must file their Homestead Exemption application during the year prior to the year for which the reduction is requested to get the benefit on their tax bills.

5. Does the Homestead Exemption have an effect on the other real estate tax reductions?

The Homestead Exemption is an additional reduction in the real estate taxes beyond the other property tax deductions and rollbacks.

6. Can the surviving spouse of a deceased person qualify?

To qualify for the Homestead Exemption the surviving spouse must:

1. Be the surviving spouse of a deceased person who was permanently and totally disabled
2. Be the surviving spouse of a person 65 years of age or applied and qualified for the exemption in the year of their death
3. Be at least 59 years of age, but not yet 65 years old, on the date the spouse died (except for surviving spouse of disabled Veteran)

7. What happens if I provide false information?

By signing the Homestead Application, you authorize the Auditor to examine any records relating to your age. You also affirm, under penalty of perjury, that you did not acquire the home from another person (not your spouse, or a relative) for the purpose of qualifying for the Homestead Exemption. Ohio law provides that anyone who makes a false statement for purposes of obtaining a Homestead Exemption, or failing to report any changes in ownership or disability or other relevant information on a timely basis, is guilty of a fourth-degree misdemeanor. Individuals convicted of such a misdemeanor are ineligible to receive the Homestead Exemption for the three years following the conviction and must pay any improperly exempted tax, plus interest.

8. How much of a reduction will I get?

The amount of reduction that you may receive depends on the tax rate of your community. The program provides an exemption from real property taxes on the first 25,000 of an eligible taxpayers homestead. Call the Auditor's office at 419-636-5639 for an estimate of tax savings.

9. Will I still have taxes to pay?

Homestead Exemption offers a reduction in taxes but does not eliminate your total tax bill. Special assessments placed on your tax bill by outside entities must also be paid.

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IT - Training

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1. How do I access the county network remotely?

Through the use of a VPN Connection.

For instructions please click here.

2. How do I access my webmail?

Go to the following link and enter your username and password. Your username is wmsco\username

https://mail.wmsco.org/owa

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Job & Family Services

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1. How do I get to webmail?

Navigate to https://mail.wmsco.org/owa 

2. what is the fax number

419-636-8743

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Job & Family Services

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1. How do I get a Food card?

Go to the website. 

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Juvenile Court

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1. What do I do if I or my child has received a traffic citation?

If you are a resident of Williams County and received your ticket in Williams County you will receive a Notice of Hearing with a date and time to appear. The juvenile must appear with at least one parent or legal guardian for the hearing. Juveniles are not permitted to post bond for traffic offenses. The hearing is on the second floor of the Courthouse in the Juvenile Court.

If you are a resident of Ohio but not a resident of Williams County the ticket will be transferred to your county of residence.

If you are an out-of-state resident you will receive a Notice of Hearing allowing you to either appear in person or pay the fine and court costs without appearing. This option is only available to out-of-state residents.

2. How do I get court appointed counsel for a delinquency charge?

The parent or legal guardian will be required to fill out an affidavit identifying sources of income and amounts to determine eligibility. The Judge will then determine eligibility and appoint counsel from a list of attorneys that have agreed to take court appointed clients. A filing fee of $25 is required to file the affidavit. 

3. I received a Notice of Hearing for juvenile court. Where do I go?

If your notice is for a diversion case, you report to the Juvenile Probation Office on the first floor of the Courthouse. If your notice is for a delinquency hearing or a hearing on an abuse/neglect/dependency case, you report to the Juvenile Court courtroom on the second floor. If your notice is for custody/support/visitation, you check in at the second floor Juvenile Court office.

4. Where do I go to pay fines, courts costs, and filing fees?

For costs relating to a delinquency case, you report to the Juvenile Probation Office on the first floor or the Juvenile Court office on the second floor in the Courthouse. For costs relating to a custody/support/visitation case you will make the payments at the Juvenile Court office on the second floor of the Courthouse.

5. Where do I go to get copies of journal entries for custody matters?

You will generally be able to get copies from the Juvenile Court office on the second floor of the Courthouse. There is a cost relating to copies and if the case is not currently open retrieving copies can take some time.

6. How do I get my record sealed and/or expunged?

Generally, the Juvenile Court seals and expunges your record after the statutory requirements are met. However, there are some charges that the court is not permitted to seal and/or expunge so those charges will remain on your record.

7. I or my child was notified for a diversion meeting. What does that mean?

Diversion is a way to get help without having a formal case filed. Even though Diversion is informal, a parent or legal guardian must accompany the child to diversion meetings. You will report to the Juvenile Probation Office on the first floor of the Courthouse and meet with either a diversion counselor or other probation staff. The goal is to resolve the situation without the need for further action.

8. Can anyone refer a child to diversion?

Yes. We accept diversion referrals from parents and schools as well as law enforcement.

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New Construction

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1. What does the new construction program do?

The yearly new construction program assures that all parcels of real property that have structural changes are appraised (or "valued") at their current fair market value. This method is established by Ohio law. New buildings in a taxing district also generate "new tax money" for that district.

2. Why check for new construction every year?

Yearly inspection of building additions and removals keeps the tax burden equitable for everyone in the county. Otherwise, a property with a new building might not pay taxes on that structure for as many as five years (that is, until the next revaluation). On the other hand, a property with a destroyed building could be paying taxes on a non-existent structure for up to five years.

3. Will someone visit my property?

Yes. A field listing technician will inspect each property that has reported either new construction or building destruction and record relevant information on the county's property record card. The field listing technician will ask questions such as: 

1. What improvements have you added to the property?
2. What was the cost?
3. What is your anticipated completion date?

 Along with the interior building inspection, these, and other questions, enable the County to make a more accurate appraisal.

4. What if no one is home during the day?

If no one is home, a card will be left at your property asking you to provide information about the building's interior and any new construction or remodeling. After completing the card, simply return it to the address on the card's front. If you believe the card's information is insufficient, call the County Auditor's Office 419-636-5639, for an inspection appointment. A field listing technician will visit your property again to view the home's interior with you.

5. How does the County find out about new structures?

A building notice should be obtained by residents for the following construction projects:

• Any addition to an existing structure
• Construction of decks, patios, or porches
• Replacement windows affecting a minimum of 25% of all windows in the current structure
• Replacement of siding affecting a minimum of 25% of the siding in the current structure
• Finish of an attic or basement into living area in an existing structure
• Utility sheds that consist of an area of 150 square feet or greater, despite if placed on skids or a permanent foundation

Additional Information

Learn more on our Building Notices / New Construction page.

6. What happens if I don't report a new structure?

The Ohio Revised Code (5713.17) states: "Upon the discovery of a building…the auditor shall appraise it…together with a penalty equal to 50% of the amount of taxes that would have been charged…from the date of construction to the date of discovery…"

7. What is an "appraisal"?

Regardless of whether an appraisal is performed by a bank, a mortgage company, a private fee appraiser, or the County Auditor, the goal is still the same; to estimate today's fair market value (selling price) for a piece of real estate. In other words, if your real estate (land and/or buildings) would sell for about $80,000 in today's real estate market, your appraisal should be in the $75,000 to $85,000 range.

8. Will I have a chance to discuss my new appraisal?

Yes, the County Auditor's door is always open and real estate staff are on hand daily.

9. Will this new building affect my taxes?

Possibly. If an expensive structure was added to your property, chances are your property's value will be significantly increased. On the other hand, if an expensive building was removed from your property, chances are your property's value will decrease. Your taxes will, quite possibly, do likewise.

10. When would a change appear on my tax bill?

Because the real estate taxes are paid one year after they are assessed, any value changes because of new construction (or removing a building) will not appear on your tax bill until the following January.

11. How and why do taxes increase?

The subdivisions (schools, townships, villages, city, and the county) are the taxing authorities. Each year these taxing authorities calculate the operating funds they need. If their current funding is insufficient, they can request a levy to be placed on the ballot for a vote of people. This levy is called outside millage.

Therefore, your tax rate can be increased by a vote of majority of people to approve a levy or bond.

12. If I have questions, who do I call?

Call your County Auditor, Julie Beagle, at 419-636-5639. The office is open from 8:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.

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Park Board

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1. Is there electricity available at our venue?

Electricity is available at the Opdycke Park barn, and at George Bible Park there are two power poles with electricity.  Bring extension chords as needed.

2. Is alcohol permitted?

No alcohol is allowed in the County Parks.

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Prospective Juror Questionnaire

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1. How was my name selected as a prospective juror?

In Williams County, prospective jurors are selected using the list of registered voters provided by the Board of Elections. The selection process is guided by computer programming and is set up to select individuals randomly from the current voter registration file.

2. I have received a prospective juror questionnaire for a deceased relative, what should I do?

If you have opened the information form, please fill in their name and make note that they are deceased and return the form as instructed so that we may remove this person from the jury list.

If you have not opened the information form, please return the correspondence through the mail after writing “Deceased - Return to Sender,” or something of that nature, on the outside of the pocket envelope. Upon return, the person will be removed from the jury list.

We apologize for this mailing. The form was mailed because the person is still a registered voter in this county and was randomly selected for jury service. If you wish to have them removed as a registered voter for this county, please contact the Williams County Board of Elections Office at 419-636-1854.

3. I have received a prospective juror questionnaire, but have moved from Williams County, what should I do?

Complete the name and address sections, making a specific note of your new county of residence, sign and date the form and return it as instructed so that we may remove you from the jury list.

The form was mailed because you are still a registered voter in this county and was randomly selected for jury service. If you wish to be removed as a registered voter for this county, please contact the Williams County Board of Elections Office at 419-636-1854.

4. I have received a prospective juror questionnaire for a previous resident, what should I do?

As you would do for any other piece of mail received at your address that does not belong to an individual currently residing there, write “Not a Resident - Return to Sender,” or something of that nature, on the outside of the pocket envelope and return it through the mail. Upon receipt, the person will be removed from the jury list.

The information was mailed because the person is still a registered voter for this county and the Board of Elections still has your address on file for them.

5. I have received a prospective juror questionnaire for my child, who is a full time college student and not living in Williams County, what should I do?

If your child will be available to complete the information form within the time requested, please have them do so completing the name and address sections, making a specific note of their current county of residence, listing occupation as student, listing employer as the name of the college he/she attends, signing, and dating the form then returning it as instructed so that we may remove him/her from our jury list.

If your child will not be available to complete the information form within the time requested, you may complete the form for him/her as instructed above. Please sign your name to the form, print your name, and list your relationship (mother, father, etc.) next to your printed name, then return the form as instructed so that we may remove him/her from our jury list.

If you have not opened the information form, you may return it as you would any other piece of mail that is received at your address but does not belong to an individual currently residing there. Write “Not a Resident - Return to Sender,” or something of that nature, on the outside of the pocket envelope and return it through the mail. Upon receipt, we will remove your child from our jury list.

Removal From Registry

The form was mailed because your child is still a registered voter in this county and was randomly selected for jury service. If they wish to be removed as a registered voter for this county, please have them contact the Williams County Board of Elections Office at 419-636-1854.

6. I have received a prospective juror questionnaire for my spouse or relative who is no longer competent to serve as a juror due to Dementia, Alzheimer’s, etc., what should I do?

As their spouse or relative, you may complete the information form for them. Please be sure to make note of their condition on the form and return it as instructed. Per Ohio Revised Code Section 2313.16 (A)(4), documentation of the condition from a licensed physician must be provided. Therefore, it is recommended that such a statement accompany the form to ensure your spouse or relative is excused from jury duty.

The form was mailed because your spouse or relative is still a registered voter in this county and was randomly selected for jury service. If you wish to have them removed as a registered voter for this county, please contact the Williams County Board of Elections Office at 419-636-1854.

7. I have received a prospective juror questionnaire at my parent’s address and no longer reside there but do still live in Williams County, what should I do?

Complete the information form as requested being sure to note your current address and return it as instructed so that we may correct our jury list to reflect your current address. Since you are still a resident of Williams County, you still qualify as a prospective juror.

The form was mailed to your parent’s address because your voter registration file at that address is still active. To correct your voter registration, you should contact the Williams County Board of Elections Office at 419-636-1854.

8. My name has changed and I have received a prospective juror questionnaire addressing me as my old name, what should I do?

Complete the information form as requested being sure to note your current name and return it as instructed so that we may correct our jury list to reflect your new name. This does not disqualify you as a prospective juror as long as you still reside within Williams County.

The form was mailed to you with your old name because your voter registration file under that name is still active. To correct your voter registration, you should contact the Williams County Board of Elections Office at 419-636-1854.

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Real Property Valuation

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1. What is the purpose of a revaluation program?

The primary purpose of any revaluation program is to provide equalization between all property owners as well as between all classes of property. Ohio law requires revaluation to be completed every six years for all real property in the County. The program is not intended to increase revenue, but only to equalize values as each property is compared to all others.

2. Why equalization?

Since ad valorem taxes are based on value, it is imperative to have all property valued periodically on a uniform basis, using a modern system of valuation. Since market value appraisals become the foundation for assessments, equalized values create equalized and uniform taxes. Equalization also creates a more healthful tax climate in the community with the assurance that each taxpayer is paying only his fair share.

3. How is my property value determined?

In the first phase, data collectors - who are not appraisers - verify and update the County property data file by making an on-site visit to your property. At a later stage, professional appraisers analyze the data in the field and establish the estimated fair market value (the price a willing seller would receive from a willing buyer).

4. What is fair market value?

First, please understand that the appraiser does not "set" value; he simply researches the values being set by buyers and sellers in the local market. He then applies his knowledge of the local real estate market and his experience, together with proven methods and procedures for analyzing comparable properties and considering the many factors affecting value. Your property should appraise at the price of comparable properties on the market, plus or minus adjustments for differing factors.

5. What will happen to tax bills?

A typical program takes two years to complete, with adjusted tax bills coming out the year after completion. Generally as a result of revaluation, some shares of taxes will go up, some will go down, and some will stay the same. The differences are caused by economic trends that vary from neighborhood to neighborhood, and vary also among classes of property. 

The new values simply establish equalization; many other facts of assessment procedures determine the final tax bills. In Ohio, by law, assessed valuations are determined by taking 35% of the market value appraisals; then local tax rates are applied to reach each tax bill. Typically, many of these rates are adjusted after a revaluation to prevent a community-wide inflation of values from causing a large-scale inflation in tax bills.

6. What is the appeal process?

The County Auditor will announce when the revaluation is complete and the records available for public inspection. If, at that time, you feel that your appraised value is more than what your property would sell for, you have available a number of steps in an administrative appeal process (without spending money or going to court). There are informal hearings with the appraisers, formal appeals with the County Board of Revision, and with the State Board of Tax Appeals. 

If these fail, the case could still be taken to court. However, the law requires that you pay as billed, even if you appeal (you receive a refund if it is reduced). Otherwise you would be subject to late charges, even if you received a reduction.

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Term Jury Summons

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1. I have received a jury summons and have vacation or a business trip planned during the time of my jury term do I have to reschedule this planned event?

Requests to be excused for travel should be made in writing and include your contact phone number and proof of travel (plane tickets, hotel reservations, etc.). Please fax 419-636-9886, or deliver this documentation to the Court immediately. Requests to be excused are reviewed by the Judge on a case by case basis. You are still summoned to appear until you receive a call from the Court informing you otherwise.

2. I have received a jury summons and feel that I am not up to serving on a jury do to health concerns, what should I do?

Requests to be excused from jury duty due to health concerns must be in writing and accompanied by documentation of your condition from a licensed physician must be provided to the Court per Ohio Revised Code Section 2313.16 (A)(4). Please fax 419-636-9886, or deliver this documentation to the Court immediately. Be sure to include your contact phone number in your request to be excused. Upon receipt, your request will be forwarded to the Judge for consideration. You are still summoned to appear until you receive a call from the Court informing you otherwise.

3. I have received a jury summons and feel that my employment may be jeopardized if I were to serve as a juror, what should I do?

Please be aware that you are protected by Ohio Revised Code 2313.18, which prohibits an employer from discharging or threatening to discharge any permanent employee summoned to serve as a juror if that employee gives reasonable notice of their summons prior to being absent from work for service as a juror. It also states “Whoever violates…shall be punished as for a contempt of court.”

You should speak with your employer about being selected for jury service. Many of the organizations, companies and small businesses in this county are very supportive of their employees participating in this civic duty.

4. I have received a jury summons and don’t feel that I can financially afford to be off work to serve as a juror, what should I do?

If summoned as a petit juror, jury trials in the Williams County Court of Common Pleas can last from one to five days, and sometimes longer on very rare occasions. In general, most trials are scheduled for two days. You are compensated by the court $40 per day ($20 per half day) for your services as a juror. You can expect to receive your payment via mail in the form of a check no later than three weeks from the conclusion date of the trial.

Compensation

If summoned as a grand juror, you will meet once a month for four consecutive months. You are compensated by the court $20 per half day for your services as a juror. You can expect to receive your payment via mail in the form of a check no later than three weeks from the conclusion date of service.

Employment Policies

Please talk with your employer about being selected as a juror. Many of the organizations, companies and small businesses in this county are very supportive of their employees participating in this civic duty and already have policies in place regarding their employees serving as jurors.

Exemption Request

If after speaking with your employer regarding their policies; taking into account the monetary compensation you will receive from the court; and keeping in mind the knowledge you will gain of our legal system as well as the feeling of having fulfilled a civic duty after having served as a juror, you feel that a severe financial hardship would result in serving as a juror, you must request to be excused from jury service in written form. Please compose a letter addressed to Judge Stelzer stating fully the reasons you feel serving as a juror will result in a severe financial hardship. Please fax 419-636-9886, or deliver this documentation to the Court immediately. Upon receipt, your letter will be forwarded to the Judge for consideration. You are still summoned to appear until you receive a call from the Court informing you otherwise.

5. I have received a jury summons and am a convicted felon, am I still eligible to serve as a juror on a trial?

If you have been released from your parole or probation with all of your rights restored, yes, you are eligible to serve as a juror.

If you have not been released with rights restored, you are not eligible to serve as a juror. Please contact the Court and your name will be removed from the eligible list of jurors from the term in which you were selected.

6. I have received a jury summons and I have a scheduled doctor appointment, do I need to reschedule this appointment?

If the appointment is routine and easily rescheduled, please do so. Otherwise, Please fax 419-636-9886, or deliver a written request to be excused to the Court immediately. Upon receipt, your letter will be forwarded to the Judge for consideration. You are still summoned to appear until you receive a call from the Court informing you otherwise.

7. None of these questions address my concern, who should I contact?

You may contact Amy Kimpel, Assignment/Jury Commissioner, Williams County Common Pleas Court, 419-636-2644 or email Amy Kimpel. Office hours are Monday through Friday between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., excluding observed holidays.

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Treasurer

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1. How much are my taxes?

Call 419-636-1850 or visit the Auditor’s Real Estate Search.

2. When are taxes due?

Taxes for the calendar year are due February 15 and July 20.

3. What should I do if I did not receive a tax bill?

You need to obtain a duplicate tax bill. Call 419-636-1850 for more information.

4. Can I write a personal check for payment of taxes?

Yes, make checks payable to Williams County Treasurer.

5. Can I get a paid receipt for taxes sent by mail?

Yes, please send a self-addressed, stamped envelope along with the entire bill and your payment.

6. Have my taxes been paid?

Call 419-636-1850 or go to Auditor’s Real Estate Search Page.

7. What is the tax rate for my taxing district?

See the Tax-Rates-TaxYear-2020 for helpful information. 

8. Can taxes be paid in advance?

Yes, we will apply your funds to the parcel indicated on your form of payment. Funds will be applied as surplus until tax bills are invoiced, the amount in surplus will be applied to tax amount owed.

9. Do you accept credit cards?

We accept credit card payments through Point and Pay. The taxpayer makes these payments by telephone, Internet or in-office with a fee being charged to the taxpayer.

10. Do you have automatic payment deduction?

Yes, call 419-636-1850 and ask for an automatic payment contract. You can do this annually or semi-annually. Funds will be withdrawn on the due date, no exceptions.

11. How do I make an address change with your office?

Please mail the address change including your name as it appears on your tax bill and your parcel number to:

Williams County Treasurer
100 S. Main Street
Suite H
Bryan, OH 43506

12. Where do my taxes go, who receives the money?

Call 419-636-1850 or see the Real Estate Tax information on the Tax Collections Page.

13. Can I appeal the penalty amount?

Yes, you will need to file a penalty remission form with the Treasurer. Call 419-636-1850 for additional information.

14. Can I appeal the value of my property?

You have the right to file a complaint with the Board of Revision by March 31st. Complaints are handled through the Auditor's Office.

15. What if my taxes are delinquent?

You should contact the Treasurer's Office immediately. A payment program is available for you. Taxes that are two or more years delinquent will be certified to the Prosecutor for Tax Foreclosure.

16. Do you have a payment drop box?

Yes.

17. What is the tax rate for my taxing district?

See the Tax-Rates-Tax-Year-2020 for helpful information. 

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Treasurer - Tax Collections

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1. How are my taxes calculated?

Two factors establish the amount of taxes you pay:

1. The primary factor is the market value of your property. The County Auditor assesses your property according to market value not historical cost. Every six years your property will be re-appraised. The next reappraisal will be 2018 (payable in 2019) and the next triennial update will be 2015 (payable in 2016).
2. The second factor is the levies or additional taxes that the voters choose to pay in order to receive additional benefit or service.

For additional help please view the Calculating Taxes Page.

2. Where does my money go?

The Tax Rate Sheet (PDF) will give the breakdown on how the money collected is distributed. Below is a sample tax bill for the 1st half taxes of tax year 2013. 

According to the tax rate sheet for tax year 2013, the rates for Millcreek Twp-Millcreek School are as follows: 

County - 10.70
Library - 1
School District - 58.80
Township - 3.90
Vocational School - 3.20 =

Real Estate Net Taxes Total Gross Rate 77.60

Additional Information

We have provided an Real Estate Example Tax Bill (PDF) to see how much each organization gets.

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Treasurer - Unclaimed Funds

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1. How does property become Unclaimed Funds?

Ohio Revised Code Section l69 states that property becomes unclaimed when, over a period of years, the owner cannot be located by the holder of the Funds. The time frame varies depending on the property, but in most cases it's five years. The funds are then turned over to the state for safekeeping.

2. How does the Division of Unclaimed Funds locate the owners?

The Division of Unclaimed Funds annually publishes the names of unclaimed fund users in newspapers in all of Ohio's 88 counties. The Division actively seeks to find unclaimed fund owners by giving individuals an opportunity to check their names at the state and county fairs, shopping malls and other events. In addition, various activities are planned to let people know they may have funds waiting for them. An owner then writes to Unclaimed Funds giving their full name and address. The Division will check the name against the owner list. If they are listed they are sent a claim form.

3. Is there a time limit for claiming funds?

No, the funds are held until the rightful owners claim them.

For more information visit the Ohio Department of Commerce.

Or Write to: 

State of Ohio Department of Commerce 

Division of Unclaimed Funds 

77 S High Street 

Columbus, OH 43264-0545

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Veteran Services

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1. I need help with payment of my rent, utilities and food, is there anything your office can do?

Yes, if you are a resident of Williams County for last three months please review the Financial Assistance page for a list of required documents and contact the office for an appointment. Please let us know immediately if you have a shut off notice or a legal eviction notice.

2. I have legal custody of the veteran’s minor children and need help with payment of my rent, utilities and food, is there anything your office can do?

Yes, if the minor children meet the three months residency requirement. Please review the Financial Assistance page for a list of required documents. In this case you must have a copy of the legal guardianship and copies of the birth certificate of the minor child/children, as well as, the other listed documents. Contact our office for an appointment. Please let us know immediately if you have a shut off notice or a legal eviction notice.

3. I cannot find my DD 214, Discharge from Service, where can I go to get it?

If discharge was recorded at the Williams County Recorder’s Office please call 419-636-3259 to confirm and then it is available to the veteran at no charge. Their office is in the Williams County Courthouse on the 2nd floor. If recorded in another county or state, contact our office for assistance in contacting the correct office.

If the Veteran applied for the Ohio W.W.II, Korean, or Vietnam Bonus – our office is able to obtain a copy of the discharge from the ODVS. If none of the above occurred, then the document must be obtained from the National Personnel Records Center. Our office can assist with that application.

4. I need help with my medications; what can the VA do for me?

Our office can assist you in enrolling in the VA Health Care System. Most veterans in this area enroll at Ft. Wayne or Toledo. Please review the Medical Care page on this website for additional information.

5. I am interested in purchasing a home under the GI Home Loan what do I need to do?

Since the Department of Veterans Affairs is not providing the funding, you need to contact a mortgage company or bank officer for the actual loan. Tell them that you want to use a VA Home Loan and they can access your Certificate of Eligibility online.

6. What health care services are available to women Veterans?

A full continuum of health care, including comprehensive primary care (care for acute and chronic illness and gender-specific care) are available.

7. My father/mother is now a patient in the nursing home. Does the VA have any assistance in paying those fees?

A non-service connected pension can be filed if all qualifications exist to help both veterans and their unremarried surviving spouses pay for nursing home or assisted living fees. If on Medicaid, they would qualify for $90 protected personal needs money from the VA. Please review the page for Nursing Home/Assisted Living and contact our office for an appointment to file the claim.

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Veteran Services - Military Injury Relief Fund (MIRF)

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1. Where does MIRF money come from?

MIRF is funded in two ways:

• A check-off box on the Ohio tax form to donate some or all of a refund
• Direct donation by individuals or entities (corporations, organizations, etc.)

2. How do I apply for a MIRF grant?

You can access the application online. Applications are also available at your county's Veterans Service Office or our office. Call 1-888-296-7541, option 5 for more information.

3. What kinds of injuries qualify me for a MIRF grant?

The following kinds of injuries qualify you:

• Qualifying injuries include documentation of the awarding of the “Purple Heart” in accordance with, and pursuant to, applicable federal laws and regulations including, but not limited to, Title 10, Chapter 57 of the United States Code, and Chapter 32 of the Code of Federal Regulations.
• Documentation of a combat-related injury along with documentation that the combat related injury resulted in awarding of a Combat Infantryman Badge (CIB), “Combat Action Ribbon” (CAR), or “Combat Action Badge” (CAB) or its equivalent.
• Documentation of a combat-related injury not covered by (1) or (2), primarily including, but not limited to, traumatic brain injury, or injury caused by detonation of an improvised explosive device (IED), or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Documentation of PTSD must include medical diagnosis.

4. What documents are required with the application?

The following documents are required:

• DD 214 (or DD 215) - a copy of the service member's Report of Separation (DD Form 214) is required. If the DD Form 214 is not available, they should contact their local Veterans Service Office for assistance in obtaining a copy or contact the Department of Veterans Services at (614) 644-0898.
• If still on active duty, the service member must provide proof of service (i.e., Leave and Earnings Statement, official letter from their Personnel Office, etc.)
• Military Activation (or TDY) Orders - For reserve and guard members, a copy of the military orders activating them under Title 10, U.S.C. is required. For active duty members, a copy of the Temporary Duty (TDY) orders is required. The orders must state Operation Iraqi Freedom, Operation Enduring Freedom, or Operation New Dawn.
• Proof of Ohio Residency - required for all applications. Service member or veteran must be an Ohio resident at the time of application. Acceptable forms of proof include: copies of Ohio driver's license, utility bill, rental agreement, and officially filed federal or state tax form, military Leave and Earnings Statement (LES), etc.
• Power of Attorney - only required for applications submitted on behalf of the service member.

Applications submitted without these documents will be returned to the applicant. Appeals for the award of the Purple Heart may be made through the service member's respective branch of the Armed Forces.