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Press Release written and provided by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA): Columbus, Ohio, Dec. 11, 2024 – U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rural Development in Ohio State Director Jonathan McCracken today announced an investment of $22.4 million in loans and grants to four Ohio recipients that are intended to improve Ohio’s rural electric, water, and solid waste management infrastructure. “Ohio Rural Development is committed to increasing investments in Ohio’s rural communities to ensure that they continue to have access to essential services like clean water and reliable, affordable power,” said McCracken. “These investments today underscore USDA’s commitment to ensuring our rural communities have the resources they need to be competitive, sustain economic growth, and improve the quality of life for their residents.”

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The Ohio Department of Natural Resources unveiled a newly completed wetland project in Allen County. Area residents and partners gathered to tour the Baughman Project, which spans 19 acres in the northern part of the county near the Allen Oakwood Prison. Over the last year, native vegetation was planted, basins were dug, and pipes were put in place to create 3 main wetlands areas. The hope is these additions will drastically reduce flooding, which has been negatively impacting the surrounding roads, neighborhoods, and property values for around 30 years.

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Lima residents can expect their monthly water bills to increase over the next 3 years. Monday night at Lima City Council, council members approved legislation to raise monthly water charges of potable and non-potable water. For the minimum user who uses less than 300 cubic feet of water per month, monthly water rates will increase 49 cents in 2025, 52 cents in 2026, and 53 cents in 2027. The average user will see a $1 monthly increase each year from 2025 through 2027. Following council, we talked with Utilities Director, Mike Caprella, about why it is necessary for these changes to occur.

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July 11, 2024, Press Release from Casey Heilman, Allen Soil and Water Conservation District Administrator: Taking care of storm drains is not only important to reducing flooding but is also important to the health of the Ottawa River. The Allen Soil and Water Conservation District is urging you to “adopt” the storm drain in front of your home. Make it part of your weekly lawn maintenance to check your storm drain. By taking care of this drain, you can help reduce the amount of debris entering the Ottawa River.

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A letter received by Lima water customers has many consumers concerned. The Lima Utilities Department assures residents that the water is safe to consume. The Environmental Protection Agency requires water departments to report if any levels are higher than the EPA standards found in normal testing of the water. The water department found that there was a slight increase in one specific chemical that can form during the water treatment process.

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Residents of the City of Lima, businesses and non-residential property owners who plant tree this year can take advantage of a 50% rebate on the cost of the trees and having them professionally planted. There are 69 species on the list of approved trees, ranging from the beautiful dogwood to the majestic oak. Eligible trees must be 1.5 to 3 inches in diameter. Every tree that is planted will contribute to improved water quality in our community. Trees intercept rainwater and reduce stormwater runoff. Their extensive root system helps to filter out pollutants. Trees also provide shade to homes, keeping them cooler and saving energy.