By Aaron Knapp Staff Reporter
LORAIN, OH – Accessibility to Lorain City Hall faces new challenges as officials implement increased security measures. These changes, discussed at the March 20, 2025, Sewer & Water Advisory Board meeting (link: https://lorainoh.suiteonemedia.com/event/?id=2839), will alter how the public interacts with city offices.
Restricted Access to Second Floor
Starting Monday, Lorain City Hall will limit access to the second floor. This area includes the mayor’s office and the law director’s office. Security personnel will escort visitors. Elevator access will also be restricted. This change follows a perceived increase in security presence, with checkpoints and armed officers.
“This is the people’s house,” said board member Joseph Koziura. “I think it’s overkill.” He expressed concern about the negative perception for visitors. “We have to go through a checkpoint,” Koziura explained. He compared this to the county building, where security is at the entrance.
Concerns About Transparency
The Sewer & Water Advisory Board revealed that officials implemented these protocols without prior consultation. This highlighted concerns about communication and transparency. “If you came to Lorain, people ask, ‘How bad is Lorain?'” Koziura said, worried about the city’s image.
Board members also feared impact on report delivery. “We can’t hand reports to officials,” one member said, noting disruptions.
Public Reaction
Residents at the meeting expressed their concerns. “It feels like we’re treated like criminals,” said one anonymous resident. “This is our Lorain City Hall.”
Lorain city officials have not released a formal statement explaining the security changes. However, the March 20, 2025, meeting suggests they aim to enhance building safety.
Impact on City Services
These measures arrive during criticism of Lorain’s water department’s accessibility. The Sewer & Water Advisory Board has repeatedly requested the water department return to pre-pandemic hours.
The new security protocols raise questions about the balance between safety and public accessibility. Residents and officials will observe how these changes affect Lorain City Hall’s daily operations.