Photo Provided Monroe County Treasurer Taylor Abbott, shown here in a screen grab from a televised broadcast, testifies before the Ohio Senate, advocating for creation of the Ohio River Commission. Abbott believes the body would benefit Eastern Ohio, especially Monroe County.

COLUMBUS — Monroe County Treasurer Taylor Abbott testified before the Ohio Senate Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee hearing this month, expressing strong support for Senate Bill 286 to create the Ohio River Commission.

The commission aims to drive economic development, enhance marine cargo terminal operations and promote travel and tourism along the Ohio River and its tributaries.

Two companion bills have been introduced to establish the Ohio River Commission: Senate Bill 286, sponsored by state Sen. Shane Wilkin, R-Hillsboro, and co-sponsored by state Sen. Brian Chavez, R-Athens, who represents Monroe County, and House Bill 469, championed by Reps. Don Jones, R-Freeport, and Monica Robb-Blasdell, R-Columbiana. The initiative has garnered widespread bipartisan backing, with advocates hoping for passage during the lame-duck session.

During his testimony on Nov. 12, Abbott underscored the vital role of the Ohio River in Monroe County’s economic history and its potential as a cornerstone for future growth.

“The Ohio River is far more than a waterway; it is an economic artery that sustains industries, fuels job creation and drives regional growth,” said Abbott. “The creation of this Commission represents a critical step toward coordinated leadership, long-term investment, and strategic development along the Ohio River.”

The proposed Ohio River Commission would function as an independent agency within Ohio’s Department of Development, bringing together state officials, private industry leaders and representatives of key sectors to coordinate policies, programs and investments. The initiative has been years in the making, driven by a coalition of public officials, business owners, port authorities and community advocates. Abbott serves as a member of this committee.

“This Commission will ensure the river’s full potential is realized for generations to come, particularly for the Appalachian region and Monroe County, where strategic investments can transform our workforce and economy,” Abbott added.

The Ohio River Commission would also prioritize initiatives outlined in the Ohio Department of Transportation’s Ohio Maritime Strategy and leverage state and federal resources to support infrastructure improvements, workforce development and tourism opportunities.