State Representative Bill Seitz was honored by Council on Aging of Southwestern Ohio for his tenacious commitment to improving the lives of older adults, people with disabilities, and their caregivers.
He received Council on Aging’s President’s Award as an honor from its Board of Trustees and staff. The award was presented by Board Chairman Cynthia Wright at the organization’s annual meeting, March 14, at the Sharonville Convention Center.
A straight-shooter himself, Representative Seitz appreciates that seniors do not mince words when it comes to their desire to stay in their own homes for as long as possible. And, he appreciates the economic value of home and community-based services versus institutional care – for both the individuals who receive the services and the taxpayers who support the programs.
Last year, Representative Seitz joined Council on Aging and others in Hamilton County to advocate for an increase in the county’s senior services tax levy. He recognized that the county’s existing senior services levy was not able to keep pace with the rapid growth of the senior population, and that many seniors might be forced into nursing homes – at greater taxpayer expense – without additional funding. He came forward – even as a fiscal conservative – to urge county leaders to approve Council on Aging’s request for an increase in the levy. His voice was sorely needed – and very much appreciated – during a challenging levy campaign.
“Representative Seitz is a firm believer that Ohioans should have a choice in where they receive care,” said Council on Aging President and CEO, Suzanne Burke. “He has a thorough understanding of Ohio’s aging network, including Area Agencies on Aging, and has been a staunch advocate for the network at times when others sought to limit our ability to speak for and serve vulnerable Ohioans.”