Aurora Mayor Highlights Financial Stability and Hallmark-Style Growth

Mayor Ann Womer Benjamin details a record $25 million in revenue and aggressive investments in safety, infrastructure, and senior services.AURORA, Ohio – The City of Aurora is operating from its strongest fiscal position in decades, anchored by a solid financial foundation that saw income tax revenues reach $25 million in 2025. In her annual State of the City address on Feb. 25, 2026, Mayor Ann Womer Benjamin credited the city’s "Hallmark-style" success to a disciplined balance of historic preservation and aggressive 21st-century modernization.A Record-Breaking Solid Financial FoundationThe cornerstone of Aurora’s current success is its solid financial foundation, which has seen income tax revenues more than double since 2010. Finance Director Tim Clymer reported that 87.1% of these taxes are generated by the local business community rather than residential property taxes. This robust revenue stream has secured the city elite bond ratings—AAA from Fitch and Aa1 from Moody’s—allowing Aurora to borrow at the lowest possible interest rates for major projects like the Geauga Lake redevelopment.2026 Infrastructure and Public Safety RoadmapWith record funding available, the Mayor outlined an ambitious list of "day-to-day" projects that keep the city modern and efficient:Water and Utilities: Design is underway for a new South Water Tower and a dedicated water line for the Western Woods neighborhood.Roads and Sidewalks: Major paving projects for East Garfield and 306 North are scheduled for this year, alongside a new sidewalk on Route 43 extending from Miller to the Hawthorne entrance.Public Safety Upgrades: The Aurora Police Department will add a third lieutenant position, while the Fire Department, under Assistant Chief Sean Wancho, will acquire a new rescue boat, a fire rescue ATV for trail responses, and a mobile incident command trailer.Parks and Seniors: A new bus for the senior program has been ordered, and the Paddock River Preserve will see the completion of new restroom facilities.Economic Engine: Business Expansion and New ArrivalsThe Mayor showcased several "success stories" that fuel Aurora’s economy. Piping Rock, a health product manufacturer, is moving forward with a $19 million expansion at its Lena Drive facility, expected to add 100 new high-paying jobs. The city also welcomed the $2.9 million state-of-the-art Salon Patrick facility on Route 43, owned by Shannon London, and announced the arrival of Tulum Mexican Restaurant, which purchased 21 acres at Route 43 and Treat Road for a new dining and retail destination."Redevelopment does not have to be industrial or ugly," Mayor Womer Benjamin told the audience, pointing to the city's ability to attract high-end retail and protect 300 acres of green space simultaneously.