The Franklin Ohio Incentive and Nonqualified Share Option Plan is a comprehensive stock option program offered by the city of Franklin, Ohio. This plan aims to incentivize and reward employees by granting them the opportunity to acquire shares of the company's stock at a predetermined price. The program includes two main types of stock options: Incentive Stock Options (SOS) and Nonqualified Stock Options (SOS). SOS, also known as qualified stock options, are designed to encourage long-term employee commitment and provide tax advantages. These options are typically available to key employees and must adhere to specific rules outlined by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Qualified employees are granted the ability to purchase company shares at a predetermined price, known as the strike price. If the employee decides to exercise their SOS, they will usually enjoy favorable tax treatment when selling the shares. On the other hand, SOS, or nonqualified stock options, are available to a wider range of employees and do not need to adhere to the same IRS rules as SOS. SOS offer flexibility in terms of eligibility criteria and can be granted to consultants, directors, and employees who do not meet the necessary requirements for SOS. Unlike SOS, SOS may be subject to higher tax liabilities upon exercise. The Franklin Ohio Incentive and Nonqualified Share Option Plan offers these options to attract and retain talented individuals, providing them with an additional form of compensation beyond their regular salary. These stock options can serve as a valuable tool to incentivize employees to work towards the company's growth and success. The specific details of the Franklin Ohio Incentive and Nonqualified Share Option Plan, such as the number of options granted, vesting periods, and exercise restrictions, will vary based on the city's policies and individual employee agreements. Employees should refer to the plan documents and consult with their HR department or a financial advisor to fully understand the terms and implications of participating in this program. In summary, the Franklin Ohio Incentive and Nonqualified Share Option Plan is a comprehensive stock option program designed to incentivize and reward employees. It encompasses both Incentive Stock Options (SOS) and Nonqualified Stock Options (SOS) to cater to different employee groups. By offering these stock options, the city of Franklin aims to attract and retain talented individuals while aligning their interests with the growth and success of the city's operations.