The Village of Oak Harbor has begun migrating from in-house income tax processing to outside income tax administration with the Regional Income Tax Agency (RITA), a non-profit agency run by a council of Ohio municipal governments.

Oak Harbor Council voted to join the council of governments and contract for income tax services at their Sept. 3 meeting after deliberative research, and coverage in local media. Cost estimates indicate that moving to RITA will reduce administration costs while providing convenient options to residents like online filing, online payments, and extended assistance hours during tax season.

“We know this will be a transition for our taxpayers, but we are very optimistic about the final results.” said Fiscal Officer Amy Drummer.

Since then, Village staff led by Drummer have been working diligently to make it possible. This has included numerous information technology-based transitions as well as careful consideration on ensuring clear communication to the public.

“I am very proud of the effort put in by all of our staff to make this transition as easy as possible,” said Mayor Quinton Babcock. Here is an approximate timeline for residents:

Winter 2019/2020

Early December – Residents and taxpayers should receive a joint letter from RITA and the Village explaining the new system.
Early December – Residents should receive a follow-up letter in their utility bills, emphasizing important points.
Late December / Early January – Residents should receive a postcard reminder from RITA to file their annual returns by the April 15th deadline.
Jan, 1—RITA will take over administration and collections for the Village.
Jan. 23 — All taxpayer resources will be available online at ritaohio.com.

Tax Season

End of March – In-person assistance will be available from RITA in Oak Harbor
April 15 – Annual tax filings are due with RITA.

Residents are encouraged to contact Drummer (adrummer@oakharbor.oh.us /419-898-5561) or Babcock (qbabcock@oakharbor.oh.us/ 419-635-7560) with any questions or concerns.