Off-year spring ballots can be full of significant decisions for voters — often the kind that affect us in ways that hit closer to home than what is happening in Washington, D.C. In Ohio, voters will be asked on May 6 to decide on Issue 2 — renewing and increasing the state spending cap for its public works projects.

Since 1987, Ohio voters have renewed the Local Public Infrastructure Bond Amendment three times, and more than 19,000 grants and loans have been funded for projects all over the state — roads, bridges, retaining walls and other public works. It allows municipalities, counties, townships and other governmental entities to apply for money that lets them keep everything from streets to sanitary systems well-maintained.

The state accomplishes this by issuing bonds — and Issue 2 is not only a renewal, but a request to increase the limit on that to $250 million per year over ten years. Prices have gone up for everyone. Contractors who are doing work for, or providing supplies for governments of all sizes have not been able to avoid the trend. The cost of these projects isn’t getting any lower.

State Sen. Brian Chavez, R-Marietta, said “These are projects people recognize and pay attention to. This makes a difference in neighborhoods around the state, the places people call home and it doesn’t raise anyone’s taxes.”

That last bit is important to remember: It doesn’t raise anyone’s taxes.

Ohio Valley residents can look around and see plenty that will need funding soon. Remember that when you head to the polls, and vote “yes” on Issue 2.