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Former City Council Member endorses Ed Beczynski

By
Mark Sobczak
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Not long after the Blarney Irish Pub opened in 2006 in downtown Toledo, I met Ed Beczynski. I can’t recall the circumstance that put us in a conversation, probably because I was a newly elected City Council member. But I do remember walking away from our chat with the distinct impression that Toledo needs more folks like Ed to revitalize the downtown area after years of disinvestment. 

By that time, Ed had already established himself as pioneering entrepreneur, a real risk taker, a player in the game of the renaissance of downtown Toledo. After a successful start with a restaurant called Eddy B’s in 1996, Ed opened Focaccia’s Deli on Summit St. in 2001 in the former HCR Manor Care (now the Summit Center) across from the OI Building (now the 5/3 Bank Building). 

I found myself gravitating back to the Blarney in the hopes of additional encounters with Ed to learn more about how he was able to navigate through the challenges that plague most business owners in starting and successfully maintaining a business in Toledo.  In subsequent conversations with Ed, I learned that Ed had help along the way, particularly from Jim Murray, President of Toledo Edison, who provided Ed with support and encouragement, but most of all sound business advice. 

In appreciation, Ed was so grateful he named a menu item in honor of Jim, the Murray Steak Salad, which was Jim’s go-to meal at the Blarney during the many mentoring meetings he had with Ed.  Additionally, when Ed expanded the Blarney, in gratitude after Jim’s passing, Ed named the new addition the Murray Room. For its dedication and grand opening, Ed mentioned that Jim’s spouse, Kay was a long-time follower of city politics and asked Ed to see if he could get the former and current mayors of Toledo to attend the dedication and ribbon cutting.  Ed called me to assist in this regard and after a few phone calls Donna Owens, Carty Finkbeiner, Mike Bell, Paula Hicks-Hudson and Wade Kapszukiewicz were all in attendance.

The ease it took to secure the attendance by all of Toledo’s mayors was a tribute to the hard work and effort that businesspersons like Jim and Ed played in the success of the revitalization downtown Toledo. 

The Murray Room went on to become a popular meeting spot for round-table discussions among Toledo’s movers and shakers on issues affecting our community. Ed was there for these discussions and was able to gather an appreciation for what it takes to build the consensus to move a community forward on complex issues.

In 2022, Ed was called upon to assist the Market on the Green, located at Madison and 17th Streets, using his business acumen. ProMedica, as part of their community outreach, took on the task of identifying the social determinants for poor health and quickly discovered that poor nutrition was a primary factor. 

The area was a “food desert,” meaning there were no nearby options to obtain healthy food choices. After operating for awhile, the Market was in need of some of assistance with their business model to become more financially stable. Ed was called upon to provide the business assistance necessary to effect a financial turnaround.

Ed, as one of the ever-growing number of downtown residents, heard the lament about the lack of a downtown grocery. Rather than complain about the problem, Ed decided to do something about it. Ed will be opening a grocery in the former Okun Produce building (across from the Mud Hens Stadium) at 33 N. Huron by spring-summer of 2026. A project like this had been talked about for a long time. Ed’s response: fulfill the need, make it happen.

Ed was raised in south Toledo in a modest home on Dunham Street off Detroit Ave. near the railroad overpass. One of eight siblings (all sisters), Ed was a proud TPS student, graduating from Burroughs Elementary and Bowsher High School. 

Ed enlisted in the US Air Force and served his country as an aircraft mechanic. Both prior to and after his military service, Ed worked in the restaurant business, doing everything from bussing tables and washing dishes to cooking in the kitchen. Hard work and dedication to his craft paid off and Ed went on to become the successful entrepreneur he is today. Ed demonstrates what it takes to be successful and I am confident he can put those same skills to work as an At-Large City Councilman.

Several months ago, I got a call from Ed. He mentioned that he was thinking of running for an at-large seat on Toledo City Council. He said he was pulling back from his restaurant businesses a little and felt a desire to give what he had been taught back to the City. He told me all the things he had learned in his business experiences could be used to help guide the entire city. He asked me if I thought he had what it takes to make a good City Council person. Without hesitation I said, “Absolutely!” 

Listening to what people want and need and finding a way to put those aspirations into action are skills Ed has developed and is now ready to share with his fellow citizens. Ed is exactly who we need to help lead our City.  He possesses the rare combination of being well suited (based on his business experiences) and willing (to take on an often thankless job) to represent us on Toledo City Council. Ed will be a true civil servant for Toledo.

Please join me in voting for Ed Beczynski for Toledo City Council At-Large.

AW Voter’s Guide: Three incoming Whitehouse council members

By
Karen Gerhardinger
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(TFP photo by Karen Gerhardinger)

WHITEHOUSE – Louann Artiaga, Joe Bublick and Steve Fine are running unopposed for three positions on Whitehouse Village Council. 

Steve Fine
Louann Artiaga
Joe Bublick

(TFP photos by Karen Gerhardinger)

Artiaga was first appointed to fill a vacancy in April 2012 and has won re-election since. Fine was appointed to Council in January 2024 and is seeking his first full term in office. Bublick was edged out in the 2023 election and is looking forward to serving on council. The Anthony Wayne Free Press asked the three candidates to share their thoughts on goals, challenges and how to maintain open lines of communication.

All three rank economic development as a top priority for the next four years.

“The goal is to attract appropriate new businesses to the area, resulting in more jobs, new choices for residents and additional tax revenue to help cover growth in the village’s costs,” Fine said. “I think it’s important for the village to focus on maintaining and enhancing its infrastructure and attracting appropriate new business.”

Whitehouse has gained a lot of attention over the last decade, and people want to live and work in the village, Artiaga and Bublick added.

“Currently we have businesses that would like to move here but we have no space for them to go. In the current economic climate, businesses want move-in ready buildings. We have little or no options at this time,” Artiaga said.

Bublick, who operates his construction business from his home and truck, said he loves living and working in Whitehouse and knows that others want to do the same. While residents want restaurants and shopping, Bublick said the public needs to be more open to other types of business ideas as well. 

“To survive, we need growth. We can’t be a community that puts up walls,” he said.

In addition to working with small businesses to open up in town, Bublick’s goals include improving the parks, investigating the idea of a dog park, and supporting the police and fire departments.

“The police are interested in getting Flock cameras. We depend on the police and fire so heavily. We need to make sure they have the newest equipment. They’re responsible for protecting our homes,” he said.

While the Veteran’s Memorial Park made its debut in 2019, Artiaga – who was integral in raising funds for the project – wants to continue with updates to the park.

“I am currently involved in a project that would put a QR code in the park so people can hear actual stories about the different wars and the soldiers who lost their lives in the various conflicts,” she said. 

Continued updates to the Whitehouse Park shelter house are also on her wish list. Her goal is to make the renovated building useable year-round, not just in the warmer months. And lastly, Artiaga has been working with Mayor Rich Bingham to create a community center. While the Toledo-Lucas County Public Library is open to the idea of including space for a senior center in its new Whitehouse Library plans, Hope United Methodist Church is hosting a Saturday morning Senior Connection program to fill the gap.

During his short term in office, Fine – who retired after a career that included software engineer, chief information officer and head of an atmospheric science laboratory – dove into researching options for electrical aggregation for the village. Council and the voters have since approved the use of such a program.

“We are now waiting for a good time to lock in electric rates before completing the last steps required to provide electricity to customers,” Fine explained, adding that one of his goals is to work on the initial rollout of the program and to provide annual updates to rates. “We hope this will help lower electricity costs for many residents.”

Fine and Artiaga both plan to continue working with Council and staff for improve the village’s financial planning process. One of the biggest challenges is maintaining the same level of service to residents without raising taxes, said Artiaga, who opposes increasing taxes or eliminating income tax credits without voter approval.

“As the village grows, it becomes increasingly harder to maintain services in our bedroom community. We need business that will contribute to our tax base,” she said.

On Saturday, Nov. 8 from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m., council members will be at Copper Press Roastery to welcome community input. This is one of several ways that the village excels at reaching out to residents, Bublick said.

During his career, Fine said he worked with colleagues and partners to build consensus on how to overcome complex challenges. He plans to continue using those skills on council – utilizing multiple approaches to keep up with constituent perspectives. When the village did a comprehensive resident survey last year, he helped summarize the data for Council and the public. He also works with staff to provide clear explanations of ballot issues. And he regularly joins the mayor and council at public events to welcome resident discussion.

“I have also suggested that the village publish a periodic newsletter, and will continue working towards establishing that,” he said, noting that many residents in the survey listed that as an ideal form of communication.

All three note that they are open to ideas and input in order to represent citizens. Artiaga encourages citizens to attend meetings, coffee meet-ups and contact council members to share ideas. The village’s website and Access Whitehouse app also contain information about current events, meetings and finances.

The website, whitehouseoh.gov, also includes details about three charter amendments on the ballot: two deal with term limits for council members and the mayor, and the third regards the powers of the mayor.

AW Voter’s Guide: Board Members Kyle Miller and Mike Stamm

By
Karen Gerhardinger
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(TFP photo by Karen Gerhardinger)

ANTHONY WAYNE – Anthony Wayne Board of Education members Kyle Miller and Mike Stamm are running unopposed for two four-year terms. Miller was elected in 2021 while Stamm was elected in 2023 to an unexpired, two-year term. 

The Anthony Wayne Free Press asked the two to weigh in on accomplishments, challenges and goals for the board in the coming four years – including the immediate task of selecting a new board member to replace Shellie McKnight, who is departing at the end of the year. 

“We have the responsibility to move forward the right way,” Miller said of the process to select McKnight’s replacement. “Every applicant will be given equal consideration. Our priority is selecting someone who will help guide our district forward and someone the community can rally behind.”

Kyle Miller
Mike Stamm

In addition to selecting a new board member, the district will also need to hire a new treasurer and superintendent during the next four years, Stamm said, referring to the upcoming retirements of treasurer Kerri Johnson and superintendent Kevin Herman.

“Those are decisions that will shape the future of our district for years to come,” Stamm said, adding thAT the board also needs to create a clear plan for what the district should look like going forward.

“I want our community’s values to guide the future of Anthony Wayne so we can continue to be a district that families can be proud to call home.”

Miller acknowledged that the district has faced challenges, including community division.

“I believe we can move past that division and unite around our shared goal of having our students succeed,” Miller said.

Bullying also remains a top concern, and while Miller said some progress has been made during his first term, there is always more to do. 

“We cannot eliminate it entirely, but we can continue improving our policies and practices to better protect and support students,” he said.

One of the biggest challenges facing all school districts is when parents don’t stay engaged, Stamm said.

“Schools work best when families are involved and supportive of both their children and the district. When parents are engaged, teachers also feel more supported and appreciated, which makes a huge difference in the classroom,” he said.

Both note that the district always faces financial challenges as well, with rising costs and uncertain state funding.

“There are always uncertainties, but with this board and our exceptional administration, I have full confidence we will navigate challenges wisely and responsibly,” Miller said.

Both men said they have learned a lot during their time on the board and will use that knowledge moving forward.

“I first ran to make sure our schools follow the values of our community and to help rebuild trust between families and the district,” Stamm said. “I think we’ve made progress, but there is still more work to do. Parents’ rights matter, and I want to continue making sure families have a strong voice in the decisions that affect their children.”

Miller said he’s learned the power of listening to everyone in the district, including parents, students, staff and community members – who all bring unique perspectives and ideas.

“Truly listening makes us stronger. It helps shape the discussions I bring back to fellow board members and our administration, and it ensures that the decisions we make reflect the voices of the people we serve,” Miller said.

Both men said they will make it a priority to listen to all voices, regardless of political affiliation or political viewpoint.

“Every concern and perspective matters, because every voice in our community matters. That commitment will remain at the heart of how I serve,” Miller said.

While not everyone will agree with every decision, that’s part of living in a great community, said Stamm, noting that he will listen to everyone and make the best decision for the entire district.

“Even when we don’t agree, people should feel they were heard and respected. That’s the kind of leadership our community deserves,” Stamm added.

Applications for the open board position, which has two years remaining from January 1, 2026 through December 31, 2027, are due on Monday, Nov. 3. The district’s website, anthonywayneschools.org, has an online application available. McKnight’s successor will be named during the Monday, Dec. 8 board meeting and sworn in during the first meeting in January.

Anthony Wayne news: Waterville moratorium on data centers

By
Karen Gerhardinger
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Monclova Township firefighters (from left) Josh Stegner, Kiah Macy, Mike Harris and Bill Schultz show some of the SCBA equipment that will be replaced with a $271,707 FEMA grant. Each seat on a vehicle will have a self-contained breathing apparatus, tank with 30 minutes of air and a face mask fit to each individual. (TFP photo by Karen Gerhardinger)

ANTHONY WAYNE – Monclova Fire and Rescue wins a grant to replace its SCBA equipment. Waterville City Council plans to consider a moratorium on data centers during its Oct. 27 meeting. And Whitehouse has won an award for its downtown flowers. These are just a few of the news items coming out of meetings from the past few weeks in the Anthony Wayne area. 

Monclova Township 

Monclova Township Fire and Rescue is receiving a $271,707 FEMA grant to replace its self- contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) equipment, Fire Chief Matt Homik announced during the Oct. 6 Monclova Township meeting.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) grant will pay for 95 percent, while the township will pay $13,585 toward upgrading all of the units, which provide breathable air in portable containers, along with face masks for each individual, rechargeable batteries and upgrades to equipment for the Rapid Intervention Team – which is called in during the event a firefighter is injured.

During the Oct. 6 meeting, the trustees also:

-Held a public hearing about 8830 Maumee-Western Rd. The 98-year-old abandoned home has a collapsed roof and was deemed structurally unsound by the fire chief. The township is working on getting the structure demolished, with the cost being placed as a lien on the owner’s property taxes. 

-Appointed Keith Trettin to another term on the Zoning Commission, and named Mark Trimble as an alternate.

-Urged residents with an interest in serving on a committee to apply at monclovatwp.org. The township is also planning to form a parks committee to plan for new equipment at Keener Road Park.

Waterville

Waterville council member Wayne Wagner wants to put a pause on data centers, so prior to the Oct. 13 meeting, he requested that a moratorium be placed on the agenda as an item for discussion. When that item wasn’t included, Wagner asked Mayor Tim Pedro why. What ensued was a lengthy back and forth between Pedro, Law Director Kati Tharp and Administrator Jon Gochenour – as well as questions from council members on procedure.

Wagner has concerns about the county’s role in economic development and the possibility of annexation from Waterville Township in order to obtain enough land for a data center since the city doesn’t have enough of its own. Pedro and Council Member Rod Frey noted that it’s the city’s job to look for economic development opportunities, and that the county is working with all communities to look at the possibility of a data center.

Corrected:

In September, City Council voted 4-2 to permit data centers in M-1 zoned land, following three readings and a public hearing. Todd Borowski and John Rozic voted against the language, while Anthony Bruno, Mary Duncan, Rod Frey and Wayne Wagner voted yes.

But Wagner believes Council didn’t have enough information when making that decision – including how a data center might require a large power generation plant. Pedro noted that no data center proposal has come forth yet, and that if it did, the project would come before the city’s planning commission and council for review and public hearings.

Council agreed to place data centers, and a possible moratorium, on the Oct. 27 meeting agenda. In the meantime, the county is planning to host a community-wide information session about data centers in November, with a date to be determined.

During the meeting, council also:

-Held a second reading on a request for a conditional use permit for Meijer to open a grocery store and gas station on the southwest corner of Pray and S.R. 64. A third and final reading and public hearing will take place on Monday, Oct. 27.

-Approved a donation of $3,500 for Wendy Gray to assemble a team to decorate the downtown area for the annual holiday celebration on Sunday, Dec. 7 at Parker Square. 

-Approved a $1,000 donation to assist the Save the Bridge Association, a nonprofit that is working to safe the historic Roche de Boeuf Interurban Bridge from demolition.

-Learned that the Waterville Area Chamber of Commerce is hosting its annual Boo to Do event in the downtown, with businesses and organizations passing out candy to trick-or-treaters from 5-7 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 23.

-Voted 4-3 to approve a revised preliminary plat for Columbian Village plats 2-6 and Farnsworth Village plats 7-10. Originally approved in April 2023, the new plan includes smaller lot sizes, a larger pond and the removal of two cul-de-sacs.

Developer Andrea Henline and Greg Feller of Feller Finch Associates said that the smaller, 58-foot lots back up to the Waterville Place Apartments, and would allow the construction of $300,000-$350,000 homes, as most customers would not want to build a $500,000 home near an apartment complex. Dissenting Council Members Anthony Bruno, John Rozic and Wagner voiced concern about lowering property values with smaller lots and homes.

-Unanimously approved the 2025 Comprehensive Plan, an update to the 2012 plan. This will be available at the city and on the website and outlines plans for the city’s future. The Planning Commission will review the plan quarterly to make sure the city is on track to meet goals outlined in multiple areas.

Whitehouse 

The village of Whitehouse earned national recognition from America In Bloom, winning the Flower Power – Best Hanging Basket Program Award during the September symposium.

“Our flowers are definitely making news,” said Village Public Works Director Mike Hill.

The village also received special recognition for “Celebrating Heritage” after AIB advisors visited the community for two days this summer. All participants are evaluated on criteria including community vitality, overall impression, environmental initiatives, heritage celebration, urban forestry, landscaped areas and floral impact. 

During the Oct. 7 meeting, Whitehouse Village Council also:

-Heard that Vision Church has now opened at 10200 Waterville St. A ribbon cutting was held on Oct. 12.

-Learned that council members and the mayor will be available to visit with the public on Saturday, Nov. 8 from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. at Copper Press Roastery at the corner of Finzel and Weckerly.

-Heard that the annual holiday celebration will take place on Saturday, Dec. 6 with a 4:30 p.m. race, parade, kids activities, visits with Santa and tree lighting.

-Shared that Waterville and Whitehouse employees and residents will compete in a Toys for Tots toy donation drive to launch in November. The drive collects new toys for children in need. The community to donate the most toys will get bragging rights.

-Discussed the ongoing Senior Connection program, held every Saturday at 9 a.m. at Hope United Methodist Church, 10610 Waterville St. In addition to a free continental breakfast, the program includes speakers on a variety of topics. 

Upcoming meetings in the area include:

-Whitehouse Village Council will meet on Tuesday, Oct. 21 at 6:30 p.m.

-Waterville City Council will meet on Monday, Oct. 27 at 7:30 p.m.

-Waterville Township Trustees will meet on Wednesday, Oct. 29 at 6:30 p.m. The meeting may be moved to Waterville First Presbyterian Church, 611 Farnsworth Rd., which is just east of the township hall.

Lucas County Commissioners updates: Jeep Fest in review

By
Stephen Zenner
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Lucas County Commissioner Lisa Sobecki speaks to press after a Lucas County Commissioners meeting at 1 Government Center in Toledo on Tuesday, Sept. 30. (TFP photo by Stephen Zenner)

TOLEDO – Whitney Rofkar presented the Jeep Fest Final Report at the Sept. 30 Lucas County Commissioners’ meeting. 

“We named the parade this year after Bruce Baumhower, a long time UAW [United Autoworkers] Local Legend,” said Rofkar, the vice president of public relations at Thread Media Group. “So from now and till forever it’ll be called the Bruce Baumhower annual Jeep Fest Parade.” 

Commissioner Lisa Sobecki thought the title was a fitting honorable title for Baumhower’s role in keeping and growing Jeep in Toledo. 

“1,400 Jeeps rolled in the parade,” Rofkar said, with 30,000 in attendance for that signature part of Jeep Fest. 

Since 2016, Jeep Fest has grown from 40,000 to 100,000 in total attendance over the Jeep themed weekend, with an economic impact of $8.3 million this year.

“Over 350 volunteers make Toledo Jeep Fest work, and many of those are retired UAW workers. We try and do our part to be an awesome downtown event,” she said, and cited the 6,000 lbs. they recycle each year as proof of holding a responsible event.

In terms of presence and reach, Rofkar took time to highlight the social media reach of Jeep Fest as well as the traditional media impact, 20+ stories directly related to Jeep Fest, with a 10 million person reach.  

“It’s rare to see everyone come together in such a big way for a success, and downtown on Toledo Jeep Fest weekend is a huge testament to that,” she said. 

Pete Gerken, Lucas County Commissioner, thought the presence of CEO of the Jeep division at Stellantis, Bob Broderdorf, at the event was significant investment in Toledo. 

“He was overwhelmed by the love of this city” and the ownership the workers took in volunteering in Jeep Fest, Gerken said, and hoped to top the 100,000 attendance number next year. 

Other news

Regional development 

Next the Toledo Metropolitan Area Council of Governments (TMACOG) released their Lake Erie West Region 2026-2030 Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS). 

Lucas, Wood, Ottawa, Sandusky and Seneca Counties make up the region Toledo falls under. 

“We identify what the region’s priorities are, and then where the funding opportunities are and how we can make projects happen,” said Marissa Bechstein, the program manager at TMACOG. 

During Bechstein’s overview, she broke down the Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats (SWOT) of the region in an overview, and then went over five goals for the region. 

  1. Expand and diversify the regional economy
  2. Enhance workforce development and retention
  3. Address housing affordability and access
  4. Improve and modernize infrastructure and regional connectivity 
  5. Strengthen regional identity, quality of life and community resilience

Sandy Spang, the executive director of TMACOG, informed those present that this was the third economic development strategy Lucas County has been a part of.

“So what’s different?” she queried, and then answered herself. The first two economic strategies only included Lucas, Wood and Ottawa Counties.  

“We have a great state representative from the EDA [Economic Development Association], and he said, ‘You’re going to be stronger as a region, you’re going to be stronger with five counties.’” 

“Our CEDS is about to expire in December. This one will replace it. It’ll be this new CEDS with five counties,” Spang said. Economic Development Districts (EDDs) tend to have benefits, Spang said, including “three times per capita the dollars.”

“It opens up more opportunities to apply for more resources,” she said. 

“We will be submitting this new application in the fall,” and the new CEDS could be approved as early as January. 

Spang said it can take years to be approved, but “we’re going to try to push this along, very fast. We meet all the requirements, all the criteria.”

Sobecki spoke to Spang’s tenacious approach and passion for the CEDS, and Gerken clarified that getting approved as an EDD was the most important part of Spang’s presentation. 

“We’ve never gotten over the hump of an EDD, an Economic Development District. That’s the key that unlocks the bank,” Gerken said. “Without that you’re not gonna get CEDS funding.” 

“We’ve never done it. Maybe adding the two more counties is beneficial.”

Gerken said he was hopeful for the future, and that people in the region “never quit trying.”

Commissioners

Item 3. 

Owens Community College celebrated its 60th year and was recognized during the meeting. 

Dione Somerville, the president of Owens Community College, was there to speak with commissioners, and recalled the humble beginnings of Owens in the 1960s.

“As you mentioned, we were founded as Penta County Technical Institute, and there was always a curriculum at the high school level,” Somerville said. “From those beginnings, we’ve flourished and become a community college.”

The motion to create a proclamation celebrating the community college passed unanimously.

Item 4. 

Matthew Mullins, an attorney for Bricker Graydon LLP, presented a resolution that authorized the sale of bonds. 

“We’re acting as bond counsel,” Mullins said. The resolution approved “the issuance of bonds to Otterbein Homes.” The bonds are tax exempt and, as such, come with stipulations, but Mullins said, “Today I’m just seeking approval of the resolution,” which does three things: 

  1. Grants the Lucas County Commissioners approval to issue bonds under section 147(F) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986.
  2. Approves the sale of bonds for improvement of healthcare facilities and authorizes their sale in Warren County, Ohio that will be spent in Lucas County, Ohio.
  3. And lets the two parties enter into an indemnification agreement. 

“This is in bold in my notes that this is not constituted as a debt or pledge of faith or credit on the taxing power of Lucas County, so, in general, this is just a win-win,” Mullins said. 

Passed unanimously.

Item 5. was Annexation Petition No. 2025-1, portions of Swanton Township to the Village of Swanton in Lucas County. 

John Borell, of the Lucas County Prosecutor’s Office, presented the petition, noting a discrepancy with the legal description that was resolved, and ended his brief to the commissioners by saying, “All of the statutory requirements have been met, and the annexation must be approved.” Borell started addressing the commissioners by reminding them that if all the statutory requirements were met, they must approve the petition. 

Gerken joked, “Always happen to approve when the word is ‘must.’”

Juvenile Court

Two resolutions concerning Lucas County Juvenile Court (LCJC) were presented. 

One approved a memorandum of the agreement between the Mental Health & Recovery Services Board (MHRSB) and the LCJC, specifically for the Family Drug Court Coordinator. 

The second approved an agreement between LCJC and the Sofia Quintero Art and Cultural Center for the Youth Works Enrichment Program. 

Job & Family Services

An extension for the Benefit Bridge Program was approved.

According to the county’s website, the Benefit Bridge Program was designed to help workers who may lose access to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits due to wage increases.

Breda Osburn, the executive director of Lucas County Job and Family Services, presented a memorandum of understanding between Lucas County Job & Family Services (LCJFS) and the Ohio Department of Job & Family Services (ODJFS) to continue the Benefit Bridge Program. 

This memorandum detailed the $2.3 million that will be given to LCJFS from ODJFS in support of the Benefit Bridge Program for the current fiscal year, ending June 30. 

“The benefit bridge is something that I’m really proud of Lucas County [for] being one of the pilots [pilot programs] across the state of Ohio,” Sobecki said to press after the meeting. 

Osburn said in her presentation to commissioners that this program was being tested across the state of Ohio in a little over 10 counties.

“If you’re over income, then you’re going to be cut off [from benefits] immediately,” Sobecki said. “What’s going to happen nine times out of 10, or really almost 10 times out of 10, is people will quit their job because they can’t afford to be able to lose those benefits automatically.”

Sobecki said, “The state of Colorado has already done this, and what you see in the state of Colorado is there’s less people on government assistance. And they’re staying off of government assistance.” Over the past year of implementation, Sobecki said the same has been true in Lucas County. 

Only 54 of the 105 people who applied for the program were accepted in Lucas County, due to eligibility restraints. 

Over the past year, Osburn said participants in the program saw an increase in savings of thousands and a reduction in debt of over $10,000. Each participant is paired with a peer mentor who helps participants with financial literacy. 

Commissioners brainstormed with Osburn on how to increase participation with the program. 

Budget Hearing: Clerk of Courts

The Clerk of Courts asked for money to implement a full transition to a centralized records system for Common Pleas/Domestic Relations Courts and funds to bolster the retention for the Clerk of Courts. 

Bernie Quilter, the Clerk of the Court of Common Pleas, was emphatic about needing more money to maintain operations, and pointed out the shrinking workforce under the courts. 

At one point, Quilter threw in a line about a $30/hour rate at Costco, emphasizing the need to be competitive in the job market. 

Fees for court costs haven’t been increased since 1993, Quilter told the commissioners. While he understands no one wants higher court costs, the operations of the Clerk of Courts is dependent on the rates in 2026, he argued. 

In regards to updating the digital system, Quilter said it’s been difficult to get all parties involved with the courts to agree to a paperless system, which they now have. But Quilter said more financing will be necessary to reap the benefits of a digital system.

“We will aim to bring down costs,” Quilter said.

“Everything we’re trying to do is to help you out. But right now we need to help Adam [Hansen, the Lucas County Records Director], and we need to take care of this Case Management System (CMS).”

Gerken and Quilter had a colloquial back and forth about letting each other know “how this all works out,” as no resolution had been reached.

Risk Management

Item 9. 

Commissioners approved a primary general liability coverage through the Hylant Group for public officials and law enforcement. The coverage costs $1,526,200, which was 15 percent less than what the county paid the previous year. 

Office of Management & Budget

Item 10. listed a number of miscellaneous items that needed funds outside of the General Fund. These included water and sewer projects, debt related to those projects and prescription drug funds. 

It was approved. 

Budget Hearing: OSU

The current contributions from Lucas County to the OSU Extension are $100,000, and they are asking for the amount to increase to $158,500. 

Acting co-director of operations and area leader for The Ohio State University, Megan M. Arnold, presented the proposed budget to the commissioners for the OSU Extension for Lucas County. 

Arnold said OSU’s main cost in Lucas County was personnel, and that the county did not cover the full costs of operations in Lucas County. The county only makes up 23.2 percent of the total operating budget for OSU in Lucas County.

“We’ve been operating at a deficit for the past five years,” Arnold said. 2020 is when funding for OSU was downsized to $100,000. 

OSU supplements the costs of operations through state support, grants, sponsorships and other contracts. 

Already this year federal funding for the SNAP-Ed program was cut. 

“We will be losing the SNAP-Ed program as the result of federal cuts,” Arnold said. “As of Nov. 30, this program will be eliminated.” 

Multiple 4-H programs, financial literacy programs, food access programs, family and consumer science classes and homebuyer education classes are all part of the community impact OSU’s presence has had in Lucas County. 

Commissioner Sobecki referred to the OSU staff as a “small, but mighty team,” adding that, “It often feels like you have about 300 employees,” instead of just a few.

Questions from commissioners dealt with what the needs of the OSU extension would be beyond 2026; Arnold did not expect large budgetary changes into 2027. Deferring the longer term question, she stated outright, “Where we’re at now, we are at capacity.” 

Gerken asked if other counties have more participation with the OSU programs in their counties, where their OSU extensions have more funds. Arnold said she would follow up with that information, because she said she didn’t have it on hand. 

Bluntly, Gerken said, “We asked you to stay flat, and you came back with a 58 percent increase. Okay, we get it.” 

Afterwards, Lucas County Commissioner Anita Lopez tried to smooth over Gerken’s terse words by affirming that the programs the OSU Extension puts on are some of her favorites to invest in. 

Then the commissioners went into an executive session. 

Inside Toledo City Council: latest on Carrie Hartman’s resignation

By
Stephen Zenner
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President of Toledo City Council, Carrie Hartman, At-Large, speaks from the heart during her last City Council Meeting at 1 Government Center in Toledo on Tuesday Oct. 7, 2025. (TFP photo by Stephen Zenner)

TOLEDO – Early voting began on Oct. 7, and the day before, President of Toledo City Council, Carrie Hartman, announced her resignation from council to take on the role of director of government relations with the University of Toledo.

This news came as a surprise. 

Hartman made every indication of running for another term for an at-large member on Toledo City Council; she no longer appears on the ballot for the Nov. 4 election, and votes she received prior to her resignation from Council are null.

Oct. 17 was Hartman’s last day as a city council member, but the Oct. 7 meeting was her last official city council meeting as an at-large member.

On that day in their closing remarks, colleagues celebrated the leadership of Hartman, in her role as president of council.

Councilmember George Sarantou was the first to congratulate Hartman on her new position with the University. 

Next Mac Driscoll, a fellow at-large council member, shared, “Now [an] even harder thing I have to say, which is a goodbye to a dear friend and someone who served the city well. President Hartman, you have exhibited nothing but grace, judiciousness, hard work, industriousness and and the city is served well by you. It’s very hard to say goodbye.”

At this point the goodbyes started to take a toll on Hartman as she began to shed tears. Council members John Hobbs III, Brittany Jones and Nick Komives shared quick appreciations of Hartman.

District 2 Council member Adam Martinez shared that while Hartman and he clashed at times in council, it had been “a pleasure serving” with her.

Attempting to lighten the mood of council, Council Member Sam Melden, District 5, joked he couldn’t wait to watch Hartman go through security at 1 Government Center, but admitted it was a bittersweet moment. Theresa Morris, council member for District 6, echoed these sentiments, and reminded council that Hartman would not be far off. 

In a sentimental goodbye, Hartman said through tears, “I don’t want to leave, and I feel very guilty for leaving my term early, but this is a tremendous opportunity for both the city and the university, and I’m very excited.”

After the meeting concluded, Hartman would not expound on the reason for her resignation, but did say it was not a planned move. 

University of Toledo offer rescinded

WTOL11 reported on Friday, Oct. 17, Hartman’s last day on Council, that the University of Toledo had rescinded its offer of employment in the position that was set to begin today (Monday, Oct. 20). The University has declined to give a reason for rescinding the position.

Mayor Wade Kapszukiewicz said, “We are heartbroken at how she has been treated and the precarious financial situation she now finds herself in. Relations between the city and university can’t help but be harmed by what has happened here.”

Read WTOL11’s full story by Andrew Bailey here.

Other Council news:

Appointments from the Mayor

A-443-25 Rob Voight replaced Richard Salisbury on the Comfort Heating, Cooling and Refrigeration Board of Control (HVAC). The office term for Voight expires on Oct. 7, 2028. 

A-444-25 Additionally, Craig Gabel and William McKinney, were reappointed to the same board. Their office term will expire on Oct. 7, 2028 as well. 

Items from Council

Presented by President Hartman

R-445-25 Council declared October 2025 as Domestic Violence Awareness Month in the City of Toledo. 

R-446-25  Adopted a calendar for 2026, for Toledo City Council. 

Presented by Council Member Hobbs

O-447-25 Authorized $35,000 from the Capital Improvement Fund District Improvement Program (CIFDIP) to be used for design and construction of access to restrooms at the Ottawa Ice Rink in District 1.

Presented by Council Member Williams

O-448-25 Authorized $28,000 from CIFDIP for the Permanent Blue Light Cameras Project, waiving competitive bidding and allowed the mayor to execute contracts related to the project/money. 

Councilmember Vanice Williams, District 4, presented the installation of two new cameras that will be installed in the 3000 block of Monroe Street and at the intersection of Ontario and Walnut. 

Yeas: Hartman, Williams and Brandon Sehlhorst, the director of economic development for Toledo. There were none against.

O-449-25 Authorized $17,500 from District 4’s CIFDIP for a new historic district monument sign for the Englewood area.

Led by the Lincoln School Coalition, the project involves the replacement of the Englewood Historic District sign in the Englewood neighborhood. 

From Council Members Komives, Gadus, Jones, McPherson, Morris and Williams

O-450-25 Amends Toledo Municipal Code (TMC) chapter 1725, requiring dumpsters or containers for eviction setouts. 

From Toledo Municipal Court

O-451-25 Amends TMC Chapter 2134 to updates language and terms. 

Council Member Williams presents items dealing with the Department of Parks and Youth Services

O-452-25 Authorized $169,497.10 from Local Fiscal Recovery Fund (LFRF) for the development of park and recreation facilities.

O-453-25 Authorized $25,000 from the Capital Improvement Fund (CIF) to renovate the athletic field at Robison Park.

O-454-25 Allows the mayor to enter into an agreement with the Arts Commission of Greater Toledo to implement the 2025 Municipal Art Plan, and authorized 1 percnet of the CIF for the arts. 

O-455-25 Allows the mayor to accept a $100,000 donation from the Owens Corning Foundation to support renovations at H.V. Savage Park. 

O-456-25 Allows the mayor to accept a grant from Helping Hens Foundation for $25,000 to support renovations at H.V. Savage Park. 

Council Member Hobbs presents items dealing with the Department of Law

O-457-25 Authorized $35,000 from the Risk Management Fund (RMF) to settle the claim in Brandon Upchurch v. City of Toledo. 

Upchurch’s vehicle was wrongly flagged as stolen, and he was attacked by a K-9 during a traffic stop by Toledo Police. Upchurch sought $75,000 in court, but settled for $35,000.

The incident happened in April of 2024 with charges against Upchurch dropped in August of that year. 

Council Member Hobbs presents items from the Department of Police Operations

O-458-25 Authorized $81,000 from CIF to buy radios

O-459-25 Authorized the mayor to buy a three-year subscription with Leads Online, an information service. This money, $174,598.76, came from the General Fund, and waived competitive bidding. 

O-460-25 Authorized the mayor to spend $45,232.29 from the General Fund to the Toledo Police Department (TPD) for the Resource Officer Program at Washington Local Schools. 

O-461-25 Authorized the Mayor to accept the 2022-PS-PSN-439A grant, $4,418, from the Bureau of Justice Services (BJA) and the Office of Criminal Justice Services (OCJS) for TPD. 

Council Member Komives presents items from Department of Transportation

R-462-25 Declared that the City of Toledo intends to get money back from the State of Ohio for the Dura Avenue Project. The reimbursement will go into the CIF. 

Council Member Martinez presents items dealing with the Department of Public Utilities

O-463-25 Authorized $150,000 to renew the Public Water System License with the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency (OEPA) for the water treatment facility at 3040 York St. This money comes from the Water Operating Fund (WOF). 

O-464-25 Allows the Mayor to get a loan for up to $75,000,000 for the Water Replacement Loan Fund to be used by the Distribution System Improvements Project.

The Clerk Reports

R-465-25 The city intends to vacate the 25-foot alley behind Champlain Street.

Cartoons by Don Lee: Quiet Quitting

By
Don Lee
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0
Cartoon by Don Lee

No Kings protest brings crowds to Monroe and Secor

By
Stephen Zenner
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No Kings protester on Monroe Street in Toledo on Saturday, Oct. 18, 2025. (TFP photo by Stephen Zenner)

TOLEDO – On Saturday, Oct. 18, midday traffic on Monroe Street was delayed by the second No Kings protest, which was attended by opponents of the second Trump administration. Protesters lined both sides of the diagonal street from the intersection of Secor Road up to at least the 4900th block of Monroe Street, near the Barnes & Noble. 

Protesters did not block the street, but sympathizers and opposition both slowed to encourage or dismay the crowds.

“I’m 19. I don’t have much of an opinion on anything, but NPSM-7 makes it so you can’t say anything anti-capitalist, anything anti-American or anything anti-Christian. That’s straight up against our free speech,” said Jace Esquivel of west Toledo. NPSM-7 is a memorandum, not a law, but could lead to a chilling effect on speech.

No Kings protesters line Monroe Street. (TFP photo by Stephen Zenner)

There was no single issue raised by the citizens displeased with their government. Instead, a gauntlet of different actions by Trump term two instigated the opposition, because protesters believed President Donald Trump was overstepping the bounds of his station. 

Participants in the second No Kings protest characterized the behavior of Trump as violating the law, violating the constitution and violating what it meant to be an American. 

Two women wearing flamingo costumes introduced their protest amidst a barrage of honking car horns. “No Kings and just peace,” said Courtney Onofrey of West Toledo. 

When asked what part of Trump part two upset them most, Beth Onofrey, Courtney’s mother, said in one word, “ICE.”

“Ripping families apart, going into schools, going in hospitals, going into courthouses…that’s not American.”

Ken Toth, of Toledo, holds the ceremonial flag from the burial of his uncle, who fought in WWII during the second No Kings protest on Monroe Street. (TFP photo by Stephen Zenner)

The actions of Immigration & Customs Enforcement under Trump drew the most ire from protesters, not necessarily for deportations, but the way they were being carried out. 

“I think ICE can operate legally, but they’re not right now,” said Cathy Kuzma of Toledo. “They need to do it in a proper manner. If they find people that aren’t allowed to be here, they can go through the court system, but they’re not.” Kuzma went on to talk about the violations of ICE against United States citizens. 

Not far off from Kuzma and the Onofreys was Ken Toth, a Toledoan who held aloft a triangular folded flag during his protest.

“It’s my uncle’s flag from his casket. He served in World War Two. I consider myself to be a patriot, and I don’t like the trend towards autocracy that I see in the nation,” Toth said. “So I’m protesting the autocratic inclinations of the current administration, the weakness of the current Congress and the complicity of the Supreme Court.”

When asked for a specific action of the Trump administration, Toth said, “We don’t need the United States military in the streets of American cities.”

The other category of people who came out echoed Esquivel’s sentiments about losing rights as Americans. 

Lois Essenmacher, west Toledo, and Anthony Napoletano, west Toledo, participate in the second No Kings protest. Essenmacher said she was out because “He [Donald Trump] wants to destroy our right to vote.” (TFP photo by Stephen Zenner)

Dressed from head to toe like the Statue of Liberty, Janet McPherson of north Toledo expressed her fears.

“We’re losing our democracy, we’re losing our freedom of speech, we’re losing our voting rights,” she said. “They want to stop women from voting,” she added, likely referring to the proposed SAVE Act, which requires a person’s identification to match their birth certificate. This new scrutiny is feared to disenfranchise women who may have changed their name after marriage.

“I’m worried because they’ll try to take my vote away, and my children, my grandchildren and so on. Are they going to have any rights left at all?”

Others were more worried about Trump’s use of presidential power to settle personal scores. 

“He is destroying America,” said Chris Maher of Lambertville, Mich. “He [Donald Trump] hates his enemies. He hates Americans.” 

Regardless of their respective reasons, the protesters who came out expressed the relief they felt from the cathartic event. 

“I needed an outlet with all the stuff going on,” Michele Lutz of west Toledo said after hugging a fellow protester. “This renewed my faith in Toledo.” 

Chris Maher, Lambertville, Mich. Maher said of people across they aisle, “They are not bad people they listen to news sources that lie to them,” and added, “He [Donald Trump] hates his enemies, he hates Americans.” (TFP photo by Stephen Zenner)

Cerrsandra McPherson: Toledo City Council Member At-Large

By
Stephen Zenner
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0

In preparation for the November 2025 election, the Toledo Free Press has created a Voter’s Guide, complete with video interviews like this one. Stephen Zenner speaks to Toledo City Council Member At-Large Cerssandra McPherson about her goals for improving the lives of Toledoans.

Third-annual Witches Brew to conjure up fun for women

By
Dennis Bova
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0

MAUMEE – There’s something to be said for witches around Halloween: the image of women in pointed hats with a wide brim, robed in black, grouped into a coven and conjuring up ways to instill fear in others.

Then there’s the coven that’ll gather for the third straight year in Maumee. Oh, they’ll have the hats and robes and related witchy apparel, but they’ll conjure up fun, sisterhood, and – at least for a short time – ease the fear of anxiety for the introverts among them.

This’ll be at a place not exactly associated with spookiness: a center for volleyball and pickleball. Instead of a bonfire and a bubbling caldron, there’ll be a disc jockey, bingo, crafts, dancing, a buffet dinner and more – the brainchild of a Perrysburg woman who a friend described as magical: Jodi Schramm.

The event is called Witches Brew, and it will be held from 6-10 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 25, at Premier Academy, 1630 Market Place Drive, Maumee. The academy is owned by Schramm, who turned her fondness for Halloween and her desire to bring people together to create a special night for women. The only stipulation is the costume must be that of a witch.

The idea came to her after attending an outdoor Halloween gathering a few years ago in Sylvania. “I liked it,” Schramm said, “and I thought I could do the same thing and move it inside where it’s warmer. I have a facility with tables and chairs. I have a lot of decorations because I do banquets. I thought an inside one would be more popular.”

Plus, she said, “I’m a fan of Halloween. I just like it – the costumes, everything.” Thus was born Witches Brew 2023, which drew about 55 women, she said. Last year, attendance was
about 65. “This year I’m hoping for 75,” Schramm said. “It’s getting known now. People are coming back and bringing a friend.”

The cost is $60, which includes the buffet, a gift basket raffle, entertainment, tarot readings, and a costume contest, to name a few.

“It’s informal, yet structured,” Schramm said.

Brandy Crowe of Perrysburg recalls her reaction when she attended the first Witches Brew. “I was in awe,” she said, adding the décor, features, and activities were “better than I could’ve expected.”

The second year “I brought two or three of my friends,” she said. “It’s a great tagalong.” She plans to attend this year.

Wendy Arnold offered another perspective. “It’s cool at our age to be excited about dressing up for a Halloween costume party like when we were kids,” the Perrysburg resident said. Arnold is making her own costume; there are contests for the various components.

“My goal in life is to get the Best Hat award,” she said.

The focus on dressing as a witch – there are more creative versions that you can imagine, Arnold said – provides relief for those who are prone to anxiety. “It’s good for shy people because it’s structured with activities,” she said. “It’s a fun party for introverts – you’re going to be a witch, so there’s no stress over the costume.”

Whether introverted or outgoing, “Jodi brings women together to meet people,” said Amy Gerken of Perrysburg. “When you’re in your 50s and the kids are gone, that’s huge.”

About Jodi, not only for Witches Brew but other events she produces, Gerken said, “There’s nothing she does that isn’t magical.”

Register via Venmo: @jodi-schramm.

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