The possibility of implementing a 1 percent earnings tax for all village residents is being considered by the Amelia Village Council.

A finance subcommittee formed in 2006 announced in council chambers Dec. 17 that, after looking at various other alternatives, they have contacted and met with the Columbus based RITA (Regional Income Tax Authority) to learn more about the implementation of an earnings tax.

The proposed 1 percent earnings tax is still in the exploration and development phase, but Amelia village administrator Mark Menz said that the village must eventually move forward on the proposal.

“The village proposed an operations levy, one that would have operated a general fund, which failed a few years ago,” Menz said. “Since that time, we have really been treading water, trying to save and cut where we could, trying not to spend any more money than was absolutely necessary. But we have known for the past couple of years that, long-term, the village just cannot continue operating that way.”