Austintown residents learn more tonight about Youngstown's proposal for a Joint Economic Development District. And they also had a chance to make a statement.  That statement was unanimous.

"How many people are opposed?", asked township trustees.

With a simple raise of the hand, concerned Austintown residents made their opinion known.  They want no part of Youngstown's J.E.D.D. proposal.

Carol Fye, Austintown Resident;  "It just concerns the whole community.  And as far as business goes, I feel the same as the others, that businesses will be afraid to locate here."

Meter Fromel, another Austintown Resident;  "This is not a solution for Youngstown's problem.  And I'm not knocking Youngstown of their problems. I'm just saying what they do they'll just bring us down the big sinkhole."

Youngstown's J.E.D.D. proposal would require all employees working in Austintown and parts of Boardman to pay two and a quarter percent income tax.  Those living in Youngstown would see a decrease to their income tax by the same amount.

The majority feel that the city of Youngstown could take advantage of the control it has over Austintown's water supply, and pressure the township into accepting a J.E.D.D.  There was also discussion on whether Austintown township should take measures to become a city.  However, township trustees say if that happens, they fear their water surcharge may triple.

David Ditzler, Austintown Trustee, explains,  "It is a standpoint we don't want to take emotionally.  We want to look at it from a financial standpoint and make sure that the majority of residents that live in Austintown are best served by whatever decision we make."

Until then, trustees continue to weigh their options.