For a fourth time now, Ohio lawmakers are working toward placing on the ballot a renewal of the multi-billion State Capital Improvement Program, which one Mahoning County official referred to as “basically life support” for municipalities, townships and counties.

Lawmakers are discussing a pitch to extend the program for another 10 years by issuing $2.5 billion in new bonds. According to the Ohio Capital Journal, the state Senate has passed its version of the joint resolution.

Ohio Public Works Commission director Linda Bailiff told the Capital Journal the program has so far funded 18,860 projects across the state.

President of the County Engineers Association of Ohio, Patrick Ginnetti, told the Capital Journal the program has been a lifeline and “the most successful program … Ohio has.”

This is not just carte blanche for local officials to spend the state’s money as they wish. Ginnetti points out the program is competitive, and that worthwhile projects get funding while less urgent or necessary projects have to wait.

Surely House members will advance the proposed renewal in a timely manner. Once the House clears the way, voters should give serious consideration to renewing the program.