Politicians throw around the word “investment” when they want to talk about spending taxpayer dollars without quite saying so. But there is one program in Ohio that truly has been an investment for the good of residents since 1995. This month, the State Treasury Asset Reserve of Ohio reached the $1 billion mark for investment income generated and distributed to participating government entities since state Treasurer Robert Sprague took office in 2019.

“With costs rising across the board and volatility roiling the markets, STAR Ohio continues to generate strong returns and remains a sound, trusted investment option for local governments and other public entities across Ohio,” Sprague said. “We’re committed to building on this success and supporting communities as we invest in our state’s future.”

More than 1,800 government entities — municipalities, school districts and such — participate in the program, for which the Treasurer’s office acts as investment advisor and administrator. And for 28 years, it has maintained Standard & Poor’s highest rating.

That is quite a feat, and a testament to good decision making and prudent financial management across administrations. Being a good steward of $20.99 billion in assets is no easy task. Those who have done so over the years are to be commended. All state government projects should be managed with such a steady hand.