The Ravenna City Council voted at its February 2, 2026 monthly meeting to approve a resolution that places two ballot measures before voters through the Buffalo County Election Commission. City of Ravenna voters will be asked to consider renewing the current LB840 program and the accompanying tax, which is set to expire in 2027. The new LB840 plan and existing tax would remain in effect through 2042.
“The LB840 program helps ensure Ravenna continues to plan ahead and support opportunities for growth. To keep us proactive and moving forward as a community, I ask that voters approve Proposition 1 and Proposition 2,” said Mayor Fred Matejka.
LB840 is a voter-approved plan and tax that allows cities and villages to collect and allocate a portion of local sales tax for revenue specifically for economic development purposes. Ravenna voters approved its original LB840 plan in 2011, dedicating a one-half percent local sales tax to fund the program. Since then, LB840 funds have supported multiple business projects within Ravenna and the surrounding area.
Proposition 1 asks voters to vote for the continuation of the LB840 economic development program as outlined in an economic development plan referenced in the resolution. This plan is based on the 2011 approved plan with updates that reflect current state statutes and clarify parameters for the program. Proposition 2 asks voters to vote for the continuation of the one-half percent local sales tax that has been in existence since 2011. Both propositions will require a majority “yes” vote for the Ravenna LB840 program to continue.
“LB840 serves as a critical tool for communities to be able to attract businesses, retain talent, and access capital for economic and community development,” said Zachary West, Executive Director of the Ravenna Economic Development Corporation. “The continuation of this program would allow Ravenna to build on that progress and maintain momentum in future development efforts.”
The ballot measures will appear on the May 12, 2026 primary ballot. The last day to register to vote is May 1, 2026. Ravenna Economic Development Corporation will lead the public information efforts regarding the ballot measures. A copy of the complete, updated LB840 plan is available for public inspection at both Ravenna City Hall (416 Grand Avenue) and Ravenna Economic Development Corporation (318 Grand Avenue).
