President’s Message
Matt Hartong, President, Summit County Farm Bureau
As we move through the winter season, it offers a natural opportunity to reflect on the year behind us and look ahead to the important work still to come. Summit County Farm Bureau continues to be a strong voice for agriculture in Northeast Ohio, and that strength comes directly from the engagement and dedication of our members, board, and leadership at both the local and state levels.
This past September, we held our Summit County Farm Bureau Annual Meeting, which was a great opportunity to bring members together, share updates, and recognize those who go above and beyond in service to agriculture. One of the highlights of the evening was honoring Tim Luther as the recipient of our Distinguished Service Award. Tim’s commitment to agriculture and his long-standing support of Farm Bureau exemplify the values we strive to uphold. His leadership, advocacy, and willingness to give his time have made a lasting impact on our organization and the agricultural community as a whole. Congratulations, Tim, and thank you for all you have done and continue to do.
At the annual meeting, we also discussed policy priorities, including Ohio property tax policy. Summit County Farm Bureau members passed policy language at the local level that closely aligned with what ultimately advanced at the state level. This is a powerful reminder that grassroots policy development truly matters. When members engage locally, those ideas can—and do—shape conversations and outcomes across Ohio.
That work carried directly into the Ohio Farm Bureau Annual Meeting, where Summit County once again played an integral role in the policy-making process. Our delegates came prepared, informed, and ready to represent the needs of agriculture in our county. The delegate session included thoughtful discussion on a wide range of issues, but one of the most significant conversations centered on property taxes.
The overall consensus from the delegate body was clear: property taxes are essential to the sustainability of rural communities. While there is recognition that the system must remain fair and balanced, there was also a strong understanding that property taxes fund critical services such as schools, infrastructure, and emergency services—resources that rural areas depend on every day. Summit County’s voice was instrumental in shaping that balanced perspective, ensuring agriculture’s concerns were heard while acknowledging the broader needs of our communities.
Looking ahead, one of our most anticipated events of the year is the 16th Annual Farmers’ Share Breakfast, which will be held on March 21. This event has become a cornerstone of our outreach efforts and a meaningful way to connect consumers with agriculture. The breakfast highlights the “Farmers’ Share,” representing what farmers actually earn from the food on each attendee’s plate. It’s a simple yet powerful way to demonstrate the value of agriculture and the realities farmers face in today’s food system. I encourage members to attend, volunteer, and help us continue this important tradition of education and engagement.
As I wrap up, I want to express my sincere appreciation to those who make Summit County Farm Bureau successful. Thank you to our delegates who gave up their time to attend the Ohio Farm Bureau Annual Meeting and represent our county with professionalism and dedication. Your willingness to engage in policy discussions is vital to the future of agriculture in Ohio.
Thank you as well to our board members for their continued commitment, leadership, and countless volunteer hours throughout the year. Your efforts often happen behind the scenes, but they do not go unnoticed.
Finally, thank you to all Summit County Farm Bureau members for your ongoing support of our organization. Whether you attend meetings, participate in events, advocate for agriculture, or simply maintain your membership, you are helping ensure that agriculture remains strong in Summit County and across Ohio. I am proud to serve as your president and look forward to another productive year ahead.
