David Berger Former Lima Mayor made this remark about the Conference of Mayors, “ It’s absolutely critical to not just our local communities but to our nation that this organization remains vital and focused. Because what’s on the agenda today is nothing less that the United States of America. Thank you all.”

Elstro goes on to say, “I think most rewarding is the number of people we have hired and brought together in the public works department over the years that have been committed to the citizens and improving the quality of life for this community.”

Jordan published his letter to the committee on his Twitter account saying that he has no relevant information for the committee about pro-Trump supporters raiding the capital a year ago, when lawmakers were certifying the November 2020 presidential election results. We asked the 4th district congressman about the committee’s request before he spoke to the Allen County Republicans, and this is what he had to say about the committee.

Speaking at Sharetta Smith’s swearing-in ceremony he said he knew early on when she came in as his Chief of Staff four years ago that she had the leadership abilities to become mayor. Not only did she have the credentials but a leadership style that was effective.

Lima City Council met Monday evening to vote on union contracts and re-zoning of the city.

It has been nearly 2 years since mayors from across the country have been able to gather in person. Last week, Dayton Mayor Nan Whaley, who is the president of the group, held a leadership conference where they were able to continue working on agendas involving federal funding opportunities, the infrastructure bill, and the CARES Act. Berger is the chair of the Mayor’s Water Council and Vice Chair of the Environmental Council. He addressed the group about the importance of continuing water issue mandates by keeping a focus on balance.

The 2020 Census has been released and both the city of Lima and Allen County have seen a decrease in population. According to the census data, Lima’s population has decreased by 8% which is a loss of just over 3,000 residents. Allen County seeing a 4% drop of just over 4,000 residents which includes the city’s numbers. Lima Mayor David Berger says while the number of residents is fewer, the community is becoming more diverse. Berger and county commissioners are disappointed with the decrease but are optimistic that Lima-Allen County can bounce back in population.

Council approved an agreement for a tax abatement with EATS investments to build a Fricker’s franchise restaurant between Walmart and Allentown Road. EATS Investments will receive a 50% tax abatement for the increased property valuation for the next 15 years.

March 19th will now be known as West Ohio Food Bank and Ohio National Guard day in Lima. According to the proclamation, the food bank and national guard were able to distribute over 14 million pounds of food in the past year, more than doubling their normal yearly average. March 23rd will make it exactly a year since the guard arrived to help at the food banks.