The Treasurer is Hamilton County’s money manager. He is responsible for collecting tax revenues and disbursing public funds to the appropriate taxing districts based on their respective levies. He also distributes revenues to county agencies, such as Children’s Services, the Parks Department, etc.

Under state law, the Hamilton County Treasurer is responsible for collecting three kinds of property taxes - real estate, manufactured homes, and personal property. Personal property tax is collected from businesses, and is based on the value of inventory and equipment.

In addition to collecting taxes, the Treasurer makes decisions regarding the investment of public funds in ways that will generate additional revenues for the County. The Treasurer applies the “prudent investor” rule to manage the County’s portfolio. In other words, investments are made with judgment and care, not for speculation, but for long-term growth and security. The Treasurer maintains a diverse portfolio consisting of certificates of deposit, money market accounts, government securities and other investments that are acceptable under Ohio law.

The Treasurer manages the County’s bank account. He also serves as Public Trustee. All deeds of trust given to secure indebtedness of any kind name the Public Trustee as trustee. In that role, the Treasurer performs all functions and exercises all powers conferred upon him by the deed.

The Hamilton County Treasurer’s Office maintains tax duplicates on computer, showing property tax payments and descriptions of all 327,000 parcels of real estate in the county. This information is filed by the auditor’s book, plat (page) and parcel numbers. The book, plat and parcel numbers can be cross-referenced by the names and addresses of property owners.

The Treasurer is paid a salary of more than $65,000 per year. For that kind of money, Bob Drake believes the taxpayers deserve the attention of a full-time treasurer. Dr. Drake is committed to working full time for the citizens of Hamilton County.