Lorain County commissioners held the first of two public hearings Tuesday to discuss a proposed quarter‑percent sales tax increase aimed at funding operations within the Lorain County Sheriff’s Office. The tax proposal, which would appear on the November ballot if approved, is intended to provide a dedicated revenue stream for law enforcement services.
During the hearing, Sheriff Jack M. Hall and members of his administrative staff outlined recent organizational changes and funding needs. These included the creation of a dedicated prisoner transport team, expanded road patrol coverage, a mental health support program for staff, and a reorganization of leadership roles to boost operational efficiency.
Sheriff’s Office officials reported that, since January 2025, several administrative roles were reassigned to field operations, increasing the number of deputies available for patrol. The agency now staffs five to seven deputies per shift—up from three in recent years. Officials also highlighted upticks in arrests, indictments, and drug seizures.
The proposed sales tax would generate approximately $13 million annually and be earmarked solely for the Sheriff’s Office. Staff indicated the projected 2026 budget would be $35.5 million, up from $31.2 million in 2025. The increase includes vehicle leases, jail medical staffing, bulletproof vest replacements, and expanded operational services.
During the hearing, Commissioner David Moore stated he would not support a new sales tax if it were directed to the county’s general fund. However, because the proposed increase is exclusively earmarked for the Sheriff’s Office, he said he believes the public should have the opportunity to vote on it.
Commissioners noted that the county is under financial strain due to the expiration of federal COVID-19 relief funds (ARPA) and the repeal of a separate quarter‑percent sales tax in 2020. They emphasized that the new proposal is dedicated exclusively to the Sheriff’s Office—not the county’s general fund.
A resident who spoke during the public comment period raised concerns about the timing of the tax increase and encouraged the board to explore internal cost-cutting measures before asking voters for new funding. Commissioners replied that the county primarily relies on sales tax revenue and has avoided placing additional burdens on property owners.
Officials acknowledged that the upcoming budget—due July 15—will involve estimates based on incomplete data. They concluded the hearing by reminding residents of the second public session, scheduled for Friday, June 21 at 10:30 a.m.
If approved by the board after the hearings, the tax proposal will be placed before voters during the November 2025 general election.