Lima residents shared feedback on neighborhood improvements and concerns during the city’s monthly Walking the Wards meeting at Robb Park.

Students at Apollo Career Center observed a real Lima city administration meeting as Mayor Sharetta Smith and department heads discussed how local government decisions are made. The event aimed to give students a practical understanding of civic leadership and inspire future public servants.

The City of Lima is expanding its “Walking the Wards” program into monthly ward-based meetings to improve communication with residents. The first event will take place April 28 in Ward 2, with meetings continuing through October.

Lima officials will use feedback from nearly 500 residents who completed a community needs survey to guide federal funding decisions. Applications for HUD Community Development Block Grant and HOME funds are now open, with proposals due May 1.