Cincinnati leaders are taking a bold step. Vice Mayor Jan-Michele Lemon Kearney proposed a reparations program recently. It addresses historic housing discrimination. Moreover, the plan targets affected residents. Therefore, it aims to promote equity. The proposal surfaced on February 27, 2026. Additionally, Councilman Scotty Johnson co-sponsored it. This effort highlights ongoing racial inequities. Still, debates about fairness continue. However, supporters see it as overdue justice.
Details of the Proposed Program
The Cincinnati Real Property Reparations Program offers $5 million initially. Funds come from cannabis tax revenue and the 2027 capital budget. Eligible residents live in 15 specific neighborhoods. These areas faced heavy discriminatory practices historically. For example, redlining blocked Black homeownership. The assistance helps with home purchases. It also covers maintenance and property taxes. Low-to-moderate income families qualify. Furthermore, descendants of those denied homes due to bias can apply. Thus, the program broadens access. Council will review it the week of March 1. As a result, decisions could come soon…