ELYRIA — The Lorain County Board of Commissioners approved a range of major actions during their July 29, 2025 meeting, including a sales tax ballot measure, infrastructure upgrades, and the formal retirement of longtime Transit official Pam Novak.
Novak, who spent nearly 40 years with Lorain County Transit, officially retires on July 31. She was recognized with a heartfelt proclamation, a commemorative service pin, and a lifetime bus pass.
“You’re leaving on a high note,” said Commissioner Dave Moore, referencing the success of recent transit initiatives under Novak’s financial leadership. Novak began her career in 1986 and most recently served as Chief Finance Officer.
Sales Tax Increase Heads to November Ballot
The board voted unanimously to place a quarter-percent sales tax increase on the November 5 ballot to support the Lorain County Sheriff’s Office and criminal justice system. If approved, the tax would take effect on April 1, 2026.
Commissioners emphasized that this version of the tax is specifically earmarked for public safety, unlike a previous general-fund tax that was imposed without voter approval.
“We’re approaching deficit spending in 2026,” said Commissioner Marty Gallagher. “This gives the voters a say, and ensures funds are targeted to where they’re needed most.”
Jail Design, Justice Center Upgrades Approved
The board approved a $1.67 million contract with DLZ Architecture to initiate design development for a new county jail. The project has been discussed for years, and while construction financing is still pending, planning funds are available now.
Commissioners also awarded a $688,900 contract to S.A. Communale Co. to rebuild the Justice Center’s cooling tower. A previously designated $750,000 state grant was formally redirected from the County Administration Building HVAC to this higher-priority facility.
Emergency and Social Services Funding Advances
A resolution to transfer $317,743 from the Public Assistance Fund to the Child Support Enforcement Agency (CSEA) was approved. The funding will assist non-custodial parents with employment, housing, and court compliance, according to JFS Director Chris Kitt.
The board also updated the Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC), naming IT Director Todd Shy a voting member and highlighting the increasing communication role county departments now play amid declining traditional media coverage.
Vermilion Road and Other Projects Targeted for 2027 Funding
The board authorized the County Engineer to apply for state and federal grants under OPWC Round 40 to support five road and bridge projects slated for 2027:
- North Ridge Road resurfacing (Broadway to Cooper Foster Park Road)
- Vermilion Road resurfacing from North Ridge Road south to Route 113, a $1.2 million project with funding requests to OPWC and NOACA
- Durkee Road safety improvements
- Butternut Ridge Road bridge rehabilitation
- West Ridge Road safety improvements
The funding applications are due soon. Several projects are expected to require no local match, and the new $5 license plate fee passed earlier this year will help strengthen the county’s local share in future rounds.
Labor Contracts, Sheriff Dental Services Approved
Union contracts for employees at the Records Center and Recorder’s Office were ratified through 2027. Additionally, the county renewed its agreement with Dr. Matthew Stempowski to provide dental services to jail inmates, adding a dental assistant at $32/hour for up to 8 hours per visit, capped at $6,656 annually.
“That’s a very reasonable rate,” Commissioner Marty Gallagher noted.
VIA Transit Update and Executive Session
The VIA driver recall issue was briefly addressed, with staff noting that a “bring your own vehicle” model had successfully kept services running. Riders were reminded to confirm vehicle IDs during the temporary workaround.
The board concluded with an executive session on pending litigation. No votes were taken afterward