WoodCounty OHIO 2002 Annual Report 1 For the year ending December 31, 2002 2002

OHIO Annual Report www.co.wood.oh.us A Message from the Board of County Com mis sion ers OFFICE OF THE COUNTY COMMISSIONERS ntinue to focus on assuring Over the past year much progress was made on several major projects and initiatives, as we co the stability of Wood County government. The Board of County Commissioners is the Society Board. Over the past several years, Perhaps the biggest news in 2002 was the state of Wood County’s economy. Despite the downturn in the nation’s economy administrative coordinator of County Gov- the Commis sion ers have established a process and the severe strain on budgets in most of our surrounding counties, Wood County’s economy performed well.ssion Un em contin- - ernment and has direct oversight respon- whereby they meet in public session with ploy ment averaged below the state and national average and the Wood County Economic Development Commi sibility for 11 agencies and departments. every person that is appointed or reappointed ued to announce new and local business expansions. Wood County was one of only a few in Ohio whose sales tax revenues Together the Commissioners manage County to these Boards and Commissions. Citizen showed encouraging growth, allowing the Commissioners to move forward on a number of important infrastructure projects. funds, buildings and property, and also participation in local government is imperative ting benefi ted the Wood County serve as the County’s contracting and tax The County’s Aa3 bond rating was reaffi rmed twice in 2002. This excellent bond ra and these meetings provide an excellent op- saved our taxpayers authority. District Library in the fi nancing of the library renovation and expansion project. In addition Wood County portunity for the Commissioners to meet their $50,000 per year over a 10 year period through the refi nancing of fi ve County bonds. appointees, establish good lines of communi- With continued cation, and thank them for their service. ort, the State of Ohio, the County Engineer, and Commissioners are working to address problems In a cooperative eff emphasis on . Each partner in this effort allocated $150,000 in an initial The Commissioners remain pleased with associated with humped railroad crossings throughout the County public acces- the high level of cooperation and commu nic- attempt to fund projects that will begin to ease this problem. sibility to County a tion among many County offi ces including the In an effort to continue accelerated progress on Countywide bridge renovations, the Com mis sion ers appropriated $1 govern ment, the Sheriff, Emergency Management Agency, and million dollars for use by the County Engineer. The Commissioners have contributed $4.3 million over a four year period in Commis sion ers the Health Department, to assess the County’s order to fund bridge replacement and refurbishment for the safety of Wood County citizens. held Town Hall emergency preparedness procedures. A gift of $1.9 million from the Bordner Foundation to the Wood County Nursing Home in 2001 and 2002 will provide for meetings in posed of ceiling, fl oor and bath lifts was installed in 2002, and will several improvements at the facility. A lift system, com two locations to The Commissioners also manage the greatly reduce strain injuries for employees, ultimately reducing costs related to workers compensation claims, and provide a provide citizens County employee’s health insurance program Alvin L. Perkins safer, more dignifi ed means of lifting residents. the opportunity to with a monthly average enrollment of 280 project. This $2.2 million project will allow for expanded security in the bring questions or concerns before a formal singles and 591 families. Wellness programs Plans continued in 2002 for the Courthouse Atrium ex, as well as address critical building drainage and water damage meeting of the Board. The fi rst meeting was were provided for County employees and their future, as required by the State, for the Courthouse Compl held on February 19 in Perrysburg, while family members who were eligible for cover- issues associated with the plaza area and basement between the three buildings. This was made possible by the efforts of the second was held on September 17 in age under the Wood County Employee’s Group State Senator Randy Gardner, who helped to obtain $1 million through the State’s capital budget. North Baltimore. In addition, Open Forum Health Insurance. Active management of the The Wood County Records Center and Law Library offi cially sessions are included as an item on the health insurance program by the Employee opened in November 2002 at the Courthouse Complex. Commis sion ers’ regular meeting agendas, Health Benefi ts Advisory Committee allows the million project that revitalized Construction of this $2.4 every Tuesday and Thursday, to provide County to offer employees an affordable health the historic Old Jail building, began in 2001. The adaptive constituents further opportunity to discuss insurance program. reuse of this building, located on the Courthouse campus, is re houses, issues with the Board. signifi cant because of the new function the structu as well as the fact that it is listed on the National Register of In concert with efforts to develop a As a means of “giving back” to the commu- Historic Places. Returning the Law Library to the Courthouse one-stop facility for agricultural services, to nity, County employees volunteered for and campus, as is required by law, will save taxpayers money be- be known as the Wood County Center for participated in several special projects. These cause the County will no longer pay rent to house this facility. Agriculture, the Commissioners continued projects include the United Way campaign, the to work with agriculture related entities to The Juvenile Court expansion and renovation project Spirit of Wood County Awards, blood drives, was completed in 2002. This $1.4 million project added promote this signifi cant sector of the Wood and canned food drives. County economy. This included working 5,288 square feet to the existing building including a second ing was updated in the renovation courtroom and of fi ce space, while approximately 8,000 square feet of the existing build with the Wood Soil & Water Conservation The annual fall United portion of the project. District in support of the establishment of Way campaign raised er than issue debt. The funds that buffer strips along stream and ditch banks For all of the major capital projects mentioned, the County was able to pay cash rath more than $31,000 throughout Wood County. Funding provided to benefi t United enabled these cash payments were the result of the previous robust economy in our County. by the County for these buffer strips, which d control the mosquitoes in Wood County was devised through a cooperative Way agencies in the A plan to combat the West Nile Virus an re able to are important for improving water quality the Commissioners. Last summer County residents we local area. An ad- effort between the Wood County Health Department and tment to place long lasting and wildlife habitat, is utilized in conjunc- ditional $1,049 was pick up free larvicide dunks at various locations throughout the County or ask the Health Depar standing water. tion with funding available through the raised during special briquettes containing mosquito hormone interrupters in areas of Conservation Reserve Program. Payments events, including the Plans for the Wood County Center for Agriculture progressed in 2002. This project will create a one-stop shop for are based on the fi rst 30 feet of buffer employee picnic and agricultural services including, Ag Credit, Farm Service Agency, OSU Extension, Agriculture Business Enhancement Center strips in a nine-township targeted area. James F. Carter chili cook-off. and the Soil and Water Conservation District. Wood County was granted $1 million for this project through the State of This commitment provides $20,000 annually Ohio's capital budget. for improved conservation efforts in Wood Other volunteer opportunities for County County. employees included: two blood drives, one Plans for the placement of one, and possibly up to four wind turbines on acreage owneden power by the initiative. Wood County Landfi ll in May and the second in September, which were initiated through a partnership with the City of Bowling Green, as part of their gre Another important drainage issue affect- ay 1, 2002. The collected a total of 73 pints of blood; and As part of the Ohio Bicentennial Celebration, a Wood County fl ag was introduced and adopted on M ing agricultural land was addressed through the Adopt-A-Pantry campaign, held April 15 County fl ag, the fi rst for Wood County, was designed by the members of the Courthouse Buildings and Grounds Committee. a cooperative effort among the County through 26, that gave employees the oppor- ally working to be proactive in our approach to County government. Engineer, Building Inspection, the Health With recent changes in our economy we are continu ing in tunity to donate canned goods to a food bank ead this annual report to see the many good things that are happen De part ment, and the Planning Commission. serving Wood County residents. We hope that you will take the opportunity to r your local government. With a primary purpose of ensuring the ood County. We also invite and encourage you to actively participate in W proper placement of driveway and culvert The Spirit of Wood County Awards program The Board of County Commissioners crossing structures, this group developed was held on September 14 at the Historical Wood County, Ohio a brochure, A Guide To Rural Residential Center, in conjunction with Wood County Day. Construction. This brochure guides potential The awards honor services rendered by present rural homeowners through a 5-step process and/or former Wood County citizens. The Com- that covers fl oodplain designation, driveway missioners presented Spirit of Wood County James F. Carter, President and culvert permits, zoning, water and Awards to: James F. Bostdorff — Agricul- sewer issues, and building permits. tural Leadership; Craig Dixon — Industrial/ Economic Development; Paul H. Davis - Self sident Tim W. Brown, Vice Pre The Commissioners appoint members to Government; Laurie J. Pangle - Liberty Through a wide variety of boards and commissions, Law/Human Freedom; Rev. Dale Schaefer such as the Men- - Religion and Liberty; and Mervin Ballard s Alvin L. Perkin tal Retardation and Floyd Craft — the Lyle R. Fletcher Good and Development Citizenship Award. Disabilities Board, the Alcohol Drug An awards ceremony was scheduled for 2002 BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS Addition & Mental January 9, 2003, to honor the 158 employees im W. Brown, Vice President; Alvin L. Perkins Health Services who completed fi ve, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30 and 35 James F. Carter, President; T years of service during 2002. Andrew S. Kalmar, County Administrator Board, the Airport Authority, and Kristy A. Muir, Clerk of the Board/Budget Director the Historical CONTINUED ON PAGE 2... Janese Diem, Editor Tim W. Brown 2 WoodCounty OHIO 2002 Annual Report

COUNTY COMMISSIONERS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1...

The Commissioners create and adopt the a space study for the Building Inspection the environment, promoting job training annual operating budget for the County. As Department, Auditor’s Reappraisal offi ce, and programs, and improving agriculture. COMMISSIONER BOARD AND COMMITTEE ASSIGNMENTS the Clerk of Courts. Engineering and planning required by law, the budget is balanced each The Board of County Comissioners is autho- AUTOMATIC DATA PROCESSING BOARD TIM W. BROWN fi scal year, which runs from January through for the $2.2 million atrium project to address rized to perform its duties under Chapters 305 water damage in the plaza area, provide December. While the Commissioners have and 307 of the Ohio Revised Code. BOARD OF REVISIONS PRESIDENT – BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS no direct authority over other elected additional security and to connect the offi ce • BUILDINGS AND GROUNDS COMMITTEE TIM W. BROWN offi cials - the auditor, clerk of courts, coroner, building, courthouse, and records center engineer, judges, prosecuting attorney, also began. The exterior restoration of the ACTUAL EXPENDITURES COUNTY COMMISSIONERS ASSOCIATION OF OHIO recorder, sheriff, and treasurer - the Courthouse and Old Jail; converting the Old LEGISLATIVE COMMITTEE TIM W. BROWN Commissioners are required to determine Jail to the Records Center and Law Library; INSURANCE/PENSIONS 15% INFRASTRUCTURE AND EN VI RON MENT COMMITTEE TIM W. BROWN funding levels for every offi ce. Commis - and an addition to the Juvenile Court Center CRIMINAL JUSTICE 37% sioners must under stand the responsibilities were completed. COURT SECURITIES COMMITTEE ALVIN L. PERKINS of each of these County offi ce holders. This Sales tax revenue showed encourag- DEBT REVIEW COMMITTEE BOARD OF COUNTY COM MIS SION ERS, allows them to allocate federal and state ing growth despite a downturn in the AUDITOR, TREASURER, & FINANCIAL ADVISORS funds, and local tax revenue to these other national economy. The year-end total was EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCY ADVISORY BOARD ALVIN L. PERKINS offi ces using careful budget oversight. $13,157,613.45, a 7.95 percent increase over the previous year. However, investment ERIE BASIN RESOURCE CONSERVATION Revenue generated for the General Fund income for the year ended at $2.7 million, a during 2002 totaled $30,619,087.81. This & DEVELOPMENT (RC&D) TIM W. BROWN 17.98 percent decrease from 2001. amount combined with the beginning FINANCIAL REPORT REVIEW COMMITTEE PRESIDENT – BOARD OF COUNTY COM MIS SION ERS cash balance of $9,298,469.94 provided AUDITOR AND TREASURER $39,917,557.15 in available funds. General It is the non-statutory duties of the Commis- GENERAL GOVERNMENT 43% sioners that make them different from other INVESTMENT ADVISORY COMMITTEE PRESIDENT – BOARD OF COUNTY COM MIS SION ERS Fund expenditures totaled $32,104,720.84. INDEBTEDNESS 5% county elected offi cials. VICE PRES. – BOARD OF COUNTY COM MIS SION ERS Expenditures for calendar year 2002 CAPITAL IMPROV/CONTINGENCY 0% refl ected the ongoing commitment of the By necessity the Commissioners must take a MICROFILM BOARD* TIM W. BROWN Board of County Commissioners to complete broad view of actions necessary to make the RECORDS COMMISSION PRESIDENT–BOARD OF COUNTY COM MIS SION ERS much needed capital improve ments in order County a better place to live and work. The ACTUAL RECIEPTS SOLID WASTE POLICY COMMITTEE PRESIDENT–BOARD OF COUNTY COM MIS SION ERS to facilitate the work of County govern- Commissioners are thus active in promot- ment and better serve County residents. ing public/private partnerships in human PERMISSIVE TAXES 43% TOLEDO METROPOLITAN AREA COUNCIL JAMES F. CARTER, TIM W. BROWN AND Plans and preparations were undertaken for services, economic development, health, and LOCAL GOVERNMENT 7% OF GOVERNMENTS (TMACOG) BOARD OF TRUSTEES DAVID K. MIESMER, ALT several major capital improvements that will infrastructure development. The Commis - FEES/LICENSES/FINES 7% com mence in 2003. These projects included sion ers also take an active role in improving PORTAGE RIVER BASIN COUNCIL ALVIN L. PERKINS PROPERTY AIR QUALITY TASK FORCE TIM W. BROWN TRANSFER 2% SALES TAX ROADWAY TREE/BEAUTIFICATION COMMITTEE TIM W. BROWN STORMWATER COMMITTEE ALVIN L. PERKINS

12 M TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE JAMES F. CARTER

FREIGHT COMMITTEE ALVIN L. PERKINS

GROWTH STRATEGIES COUNCIL JAMES F. CARTER 6 M COMMUNITY CORRECTIONS BOARD JAMES F. CARTER OSU EXTENSION SERVICE ADVISORY COMMITTEE TIM W. BROWN INTEREST 9% LOCAL EMERGENCY PLANNING COMMITTEE ALVIN L. PERKINS REFUNDS/REIMBURSE 7% WOOD COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT COMMISSION PRESIDENT – BOARD OF COUNTY COM MIS SION ERS PROPERTY TAXES 19% 0 EDGE COMMETTEE VICE PRESIDENT – BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS SALES & SERVICES 4% WOOD COUNTY FAMILY AND CHILDRENS FIRST COUNCIL JAMES F. CARTER 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 OTHER 1% STATE/FEDERAL AID 0% *DISSOLVED JUNE 1, 2002

Buildings and Grounds Building Inspection COURTHOUSE COMPLEX: Bill Lorenzen, Superintendent Michael J. Billmaier, Chief Building Inspector EAST GYPSY LANE COMPLEX : Harry Allison, Superintendent

As a State of Ohio Certifi ed Building totaled $925,292.24. Hancock County Build ing Inspection operates under The Buildings and Grounds De part ments Courthouse Complex Inspection Department, Wood County’s commer cial inspec tions added an addi - the Board of County Commissioners and oversee the day-to-day maintenance of In addition to duties at the Courthouse Building Inspection Department tion al $150,099.75, with Henry County uses the Ohio Building Code, and the County offi ce facilities located primarily and Offi ce Building, the Courthouse inspects all buildings covered by the adding $46,314.11. Ohio Residential Code for One, Two, in the Courthouse Complex and the Complex Maintenance Department state building code in Wood, Hancock, In July, the Depart ment im ple - and Three Family Dwellings. These are East Gypsy Lane Complex, as well as at provided assistance to satellite agen- and Henry Counties. This 1,455 mented the 2002 Inter na tion al Building uniform codes that are used to enforce satellite locations. Both provide assis- cies, including OSU Extension, Highway square mile area encompasses 38 Code. This code is the state mandated the commer cial/industrial and residen- tance in facility planning, remodeling, Garage, Law Library, Auto Title, and munic i pal i ties including Bowling Green, code for the regulation of all com- tial building codes.• and preventative maintenance. Veterans Assistance Center. Mainte- Perrysburg, Northwood, Rossford, mercial and indus tri al buildings. nance staff performed recycling and Fostoria, Findlay, Mt. Blanchard, East Gypsy Lane Complex other light maintenance functions for The Department commenced resi- Deshler, Napoleon, and Ridgeville A PARTIAL LIST OF PER MITS these offi ces. Corners, making Wood County the dential inspec tions within the village The East Gypsy Lane Complex largest building inspection department limits in Tontogany on Septem ber 1, ISSUED IN 2002 Maintenance staff maintained the With the completion of the Old Jail in the State. The Building Inspection 2002. Inspections are conducted on County-owned Offi ce Buildings off of renovation into the Records Center and Department also conducts residential all one, two, & three family dwellings One, two, and three family East Gypsy Lane and Dunbridge Roads. Law Library, maintenance staff assisted building inspections within Wood for new construc tion, additions and dwellings (Wood County only) 611 They also provided services to the with the relocation of the Law Library Historical Center and Dunbridge Road County, accounting for 52 percent of all remodel work. Inspec tions for com- Additions or alterations to to the Old Jail in the fall. This included fees collected. mercial construction will begin in 2003. Building, which houses the Solid Waste the removal of shelving in the old single family dwellings Management District, Economic Tontogany makes the 38th municipality (Wood County only) 325 location and transfer of furniture to the During 2002, the Department issued to adopt Wood County Building Inspec- Development Commission, and new location. Educational Service Center. 6,445 permits. The issuance of permits tion as their agent. Munic i pal i ties that New residential garages During 2002, Courthouse Complex resulted in 21,721 fi eld inspections, do not adopt the depart ment as their (Wood County only) 169 Construction of a 50' x 100' metal Maintenance coordinated the roof with 2,644 lists of defi ciencies requiring agent are subject to regulation by the New commercial structures building began in the spring of 2002. replacement and lead paint corrective action. Of the inspections State of Ohio and must go to Columbus (Wood, Hancock, & Henry Counties) 239 Completed in July, the building provides abatement for the Public Defender’s conducted, 18,506 occurred inside for permits. storage for mowers, snow plows, back- Offi ce, installation of new entry doors Wood County resulting in 13,171 resi- For the sixth consec u tive year, the Additions or alterations to commercial hoes, and other equipment previously at the Highway Garage, creation of an dential and 5,335 commer cial. Building Inspection Depart ment extend- structures (Wood, Hancock, & stored outdoors. additional offi ce and carpet replace - Receipts for 2002 totaled ed its hours during the summer months Henry Counties) 277 Maintenance staff installed new ment for Courtroom #1. Repairs to the $1,121,706.10, the most active to keep pace with the growing building sidewalks and additional parking areas parking garage entrance ramp, as well return year to date. Wood County demands in the area. at Juvenile Court, wrapping up the ex- as surfacing and installation of lighting residential and commercial receipts pansion and renovation project. Other for the new parking lot were also parking areas throughout the complex coordinated. were resurfaced and repaired. Maintenance staff provided assis- TOTAL REVENUE PER COUNTY ESTIMATED CONSTRUCTION COST tance in wiring for a new trash compac- IN THOUSANDS Numerous building updates were IN MILLIONS 300 tor that replaced dumpsters, resulting 1000 also completed during the year includ- in decreased costs for waste removal. 900 250 ing removal of the fence outside the 800 WORK Industry, installation of a washer Work continued on modernizing and 700 200 and dryer and repairs to the roof top retro-fi tting lighting systems throughout unit for the Dog Shelter, and painting of the Courthouse and Offi ce Building to 600 150 500 second story windows at the Dun- reduce costs. This project included 400 100 bridge Road Building. Dete ri o ra tion installation of motion sensor light 300 of roadway storm-sewer catch basins switches in restrooms. 200 50 prompted the replacement of two basins during the year. The Buildings and Grounds 100 0 De part ments operate under the Board 0 Maintenance staff provided as- of County Commissioners. • 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 sistance with the carpet and painting 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 project at Job and Family Services by RESIDENTIAL (WOOD COUNTY ONLY) moving offi ce furniture as needed. WOOD HANCOCK HENRY COMMERCIAL & INDUSTRIAL WoodCounty OHIO 2002 Annual Report 3

Child Support Enforcement Agency Department of Job and Family Services Frank McLaughlin, Director Ruth Larabee, Administrator

The Child Support Enforcement Agency man- established by the Agency were handled by The Department of Job and Family Services, search assistance, professional counsel- cy Food and Shelter Program (EFSP) served ages the collection and distribution of child administrative hearings, during which both which operates under the Board of County ing, and occupational training. The unique 22 households, Adult Emergency Assistance support monies, locates absent parents, parents agreed to be bound by the results Commissioners, administers federal, state, and comprehensive Job Find program at served 36 adults and the Prevention, Reten- establishes support and paternity, modifi es of on-site genetic testing. Additionally, the and county legislated and regulated public the Employment Resource Center helped tion and Contingency (PRC) program served support orders, and enforces medical and Agency established 94 new child support assistance; employment resources; child and 112 individuals secure employment with 438 households. Through the PRC program, child support orders. orders and 71 new orders for medical sup- adult protective services; and social services starting wages ranging from $5.15 to $21.75 172 car repairs totaling $111,517 were port alone by the administrative process. in the County. per hour. In addition, 24 adults and 37 provided for people who were working or In 2002, the Child Support Enforce ment As of December 31, 2002, the Agency dislocated workers who came to the agency trying to become employed. Transportation Agency collected $19,337,060.12 and dis- had 6,253 open cases. In 2002, the Department of Job and Family for career assistance were determined to services were provided 1,800 times through bursed this amount to the custodial parents Services administered $60,729,016 in vari- need additional academic or vocational Medicaid, Title XX and Levy Funds. Child The Agency continued placement of of children due child support. Additionally, ous programs. Of this amount, 96.75 percent training in order to be employable in their oc- Care was provided to an average of 400 an employee in an offi ce adjacent to the $479,272.92.37 was collected and returned came from federal and state sources, with Domestic Relations Court facility in the cupational fi elds. These customers received children each month averaging $120,000 to the State of Ohio for cases where Ohio the remaining 3.75 percent from local funding for training to enhance their skills. per month. Works First (OWF) was paid for families in Courthouse. This employee provided up-to- sources. Over $54 million (89 percent) was In 2002, 17 adults and 11 dislocated workers need. Reimbursements of $56,062.15 were the-minute case information to the Court, Services to senior citizens included: attributable to Medicaid. completed their educational programs and paid to the Wood County Department of Job computed child support budgets, and set up homemaker services provided an average were employed with starting wages ranging and Family Services for children in Wood cases to expedite payment processing for Wood County residents were assisted of 193 times per month, Home Health Aide from $8.50 to $21.50 per hour. County foster care living situations. new child support orders. with basic essentials of food, clothing, services (under contract with Wood County shelter, and medical care as follows: 219 Health Department) were provided to an av- During 2002, the Agency’s legal staff In 2002, the Agency began and The Wood County Workforce Devel - Temporary Assistance to Needy Families initiated 371 contempt of court actions completed a manual review of 1,288 cases opment website, www.woodcountyjobs.com, erage of 36 consumers per month, and Chore (TANF) cash payment cases per month; and 84 counts of misdemeanor criminal affected by the Personal Responsibility became operational on July 1, offering services were reimbursed for an average nonsupport at the Bowling Green Municipal and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act 4,696 Medicaid cases per month averaging online services to area job seekers and of 21 persons per month. Adult Protective Court. These two activities alone directly of 1996. In 2001, the Governor’s Executive $4,508,220 per month with 73 percent for employers. Job seekers will fi nd easy to use Services were provided to 70 people over resulted in lump-sum payments of more than Order designated that current and former aged/blind/disabled, nine percent for nursing em ploy ment tools including a resume writer, the age of sixty and 12 under age sixty. public assistance and OWF cases which home care, and 18 percent for children and $222,000 (up from $160,000 in 2001) and cover letter writer and after-interview letter Intensive Case Management services received child support payments between families; $120,512 monthly food stamp reinitiated regular child support payments writer. Additionally, a vast array of employ- were provided to an average of 25 house- October 1997 and September 2000 may issuance, averaging $44 per person and $92 for Wood County’s children. The Agency’s ment and training, counseling and supportive holds per month for those participating in legal staff also recovered more than $65,000 not have received all the support to which per case; 38 disability assistance cases per services can be accessed through the they were entitled under federal law. In the New Possibilities, Student Find, Project through admin is tra tive activities such as month, averaging $115 a month per person; network of Wood County One-Stop partner Wood County, the households eligible for a Newcomers and/or the Alternative Assign- probate actions, liens, and attachment of and $448,311 disability assistance medical agencies listed on the website. Employers payment received a total of $97,462.46 as a ment programs. retirement accounts, a substantial increase expenditures in 2002. will fi nd a convenient job posting section, over the $4000 collected by this manner in result of the review. Services for children and elders were As the administrative and fi scal agent for links to local, state and national labor market 2001. partially funded by the Protective Services The Financial Institution Data Match Workforce Investment Act (WIA) services information plus information about services Levy. Wood County continued its aggressive (FIDM) was implemented by the Agency in the County, the Wood County Depart- available to assist with their employment felony prosecution of criminal nonsupport, in 2002. This program allows for the ex- ment of Job and Family Services utilized and training needs. The Department of Job and Family with 20 delinquent payers being referred change of information on the bank accounts funds to supply employment or training Services is also the fi scal agent for Wood of individuals who owe more than one The Children’s Services Unit served 3,591 to the Wood County Prosecuting Attorney’s services for 189 adult customers and 273 County Family and Children First Council, month’s child support. More than $34,000 children, placed 57 children in substitute Offi ce for felony action in 2002. In the last dislocated workers during 2002. In addition, coordinating grants and contracts. was collected from about 50 payers, with care, and provided in-home protective • few years, more than 200 “deadbeat” par- 1,263 individuals were served through the nearly $5,000 seized from one account services to 180 children. The unit worked ents have been indicted for felony criminal Wood County Employment Resource Center alone. with 1,441 children who were reported to nonsupport. One-Stop service delivery system. A wide be at risk and nine children were placed for The Agency worked to resolve 80 paterni- The Child Support Enforcement Agency range of services were coordinated for adoption. ty establishment cases locally, in addition to operates under the Board of County Com- these individuals through referrals made approximately 252 more father-child relation- missioners.• to other agencies in the One-Stop service The Social Services Unit provides services ships being acknowledged in local hospitals delivery system network. Services included to adults with or without children and elders. by new fathers and mothers at the time of in-depth assessment of needs, skill testing, Information and referral services were a child’s birth. Most of the 80 rela tion ships resume development, GED classes, job provided to 2,903 individuals. The Emergen-

Dog Shelter Emergency Management Agency Historical Museum and Center Paula Hamman, Chief Dog Warden J. Eric Larson, Director Stacey Hann-Ruff, Director

The purpose of the Dog Shelter is to enforce The Emergency Management Agency is EMS, and public health capabilities to identify, Section 955 of the Ohio Revised Code, which responsible for the four phases of emergency monitor and respond to a biological terrorist The Historical Center, located on the by the Center is available through the includes checking licenses and the proper management: mitigation, prepared ness, incident. grounds of the former Wood County Black Swamp Chanticleer newsletter and confi nement of dogs, as well as investigating response, and recovery. The Agency assists Infi rmary, actively preserves and shares on the Center’s website at The Wood County Local Emergency dog bites, livestock kills, and other related County government and local commu ni ties in the history of Wood County and the www.woodcountyhistory.org. Planning Committee in conjunction with the Wood County Infi rmary through exhibits, complaints. The Dog Shelter is self-support- responding to natural disasters and special The Historical Museum and Center Agency implemented a Global Imaging System research, an internship program, special ing. User’s fees, dog licenses, kennel fees, needs situations. staff are employees of the Board of County (GIS) for use in planning. This system helps events, education programs, collection and fi nes and penalties are the primary funding Commissioners, while the Historical Society map critical reporting facilities and areas conservation of artifacts, and the preserva- source for the Dog and Kennel Fund which The Emergency Management Agency received Board sets the policy for operation of the throughout the County. tion of the Infi rmary grounds. This historic is used to pay salaries, maintain trucks, a $107,129.39 grant from the U.S. Department Center. site is one of the last county poor farms • pay utilities, maintain the building, and pay of Justice (DOJ) through the State Domestic With the aide of the EMA Director, a Spe- where nearly all of the original structures veterinarian fees. Preparedness Equipment Program to provide cial Needs Committee was formed to identify 2002 SPECIAL ACHIEVEMENTS still remain. The Center includes a large equipment for Wood County’s fi rst responders. and address the needs of people with special • Restoration of the Front Hallway & museum, an herb garden and arboretum, Preparedness for emergency response required needs during disasters within Wood County. the Government Room The number of impounded dogs declined nature trails and numerous outdoor points continuous assessments of local hazards and for a fi fth straight year. During 2002, a On November 10, Wood County declared of interest. The site was placed on the • $20,000 donation from Ohio Attorney a strategy to address those planning areas. larger percent of the impounded dogs were a State of Emergency as a result of a tornado, National Register of Historic Places in General Betty Montgomery for unadoptable, either because of age, health, The DOJ provided fi nancial support to states severe thunder storms, and high winds that 1979, and in 2000, the Infi rmary was restoration work in the East Wing in or attitude. Despite this the Dog Shelter has for development of the equipment inventory moved through the County causing signifi cant awarded a historical marker by the Ohio honor of the State of Ohio Bicentennial maintained nearly a 58 percent adoption rate. needed by fi rst responders for potential acts of damage to utilities and other structures. The Bicentennial Commission. domestic terrorism. • Installation of six new exhibits, The Shelter continued to post photos Village of Jerry City was most affected by the Financial support for the Center is derived including life at the Infi rmary, a of available dogs at numerous locations The Agency created a Weapons of Mass inclement weather. The emergency proclama- from County tax dollars and through the resident’s bedroom, World War II throughout the County. The Shelter also Destruction Committee during the year. The tion was rescinded the following day after private fund-raising activities of the Wood America, political memorabilia, received assistance from rescuers, who Committee is involved with the purchase of damage assessments were taken. As a result County Historical Society. The Center has mourning practices, and Wood County publicized available dogs from the shelter. personal protective fi rst response equipment of the severe weather, federal assistance a staff of four full time County employees, families The use of e-mail has also proved to be a from the DOJ. Offi cials from the Agency, was available for those qualifying through the one part time Experience Works employee, • Plaster repair of the “Lunatic House” valuable tool in the rescue and adoption of Bowling Green State University, the Sheriff’s beginning of 2003. and a volunteer base of over 400 people. made possible by a donation made in dogs. Offi ce, the Health Department, Wood County The Agency responded to 21 hazardous The 50-acre County-owned site is part memory of Wilbert & Helen Mathile Hospital, the City of Bowling Green, and local The Dog Shelter operates under the Board materials incidents and assisted as a resource of the system of parks maintained and fi re chiefs and emergency medical services • Completion of a fi ve-year Strategic Plan of County Commissioners. • coordinator, providing contain ment, gas moni- patrolled by the Wood County Park District. worked together and evaluated vulner a bil i ties for the Historical Center toring, on site weather monitoring equipment and training needs for fi rst responders. 2002 STATISTICS and various tools. During 2002, the Center and its resources • Completion of the Phase I Archaeologi- Miles driven 56,655 In May 2002, the Agency hosted Ohio State were made available to more than 20,000 cal Survey of the 50-acre grounds Calls answered 1,970 Capabilities Assessment for Readiness (OS- The EMA Director implemented and visitors, including students, tourists, fami- • Exterior Painting of the Infi rmary, the Law enforce ment agencies 180 CAR) on the campus of Bowling Green State instructed several emergency medical lies, school and reunion groups, and more Lunatic House, the Ice House, and Owners dogs 5 University. This two-day program brought technician classes including one 40-hour fi rst than 55 County agency and community Power House groups. Visitors took tours, engaged in Stray dogs 844 together County Commissioners, political responder course, two Basic EMT classes, one research activities, walked the grounds, • Continuation of the restoration of the Complaints 840 subdivisions, police, fi re, emergency medical Intermediate EMT class and one Intermediate and enjoyed education programs. During Brandeberry Wall by County Animal claims 5 services, County and Ohio EMA, fi rst respond- EMT refresher course. In the fall, the Agency 2002, the Center’s interns and volunteers maintenance staff Injured dogs 48 ers, and various other community organiza- offered two Basic EMT classes and a one-year worked more than 6,000 hours on a myriad • Replacement of the Ice House roof Patrol area 30 tions and agencies to identify requirements Paramedic program. of education and recreation projects. Traps set & picked up 18 and needs to successfully implement a “total The EMA Director, who is also a Para- • Awarding of a $3,000 grant from the Dogs impounded 822 emergency response” to a disaster situation. medic, continued to respond to Advanced Life The Center hosted a diversity of special Board of County Commissioners to Dogs redeemed 247 research the history of the Wood Support requests as a Paramedic Intercept events, including the Spring Open House, Dogs adopted 228 A bio-terrorism tabletop exercise, a joint ef- County Courthouse and Jail unit, with the help and support of St. Vincent’s Civil War Days Encampment, Earth Camp, Pups impounded 75 fort of the Agency and the Health Department, Life Flight. In 2002, he responded to 198 Ohio County Commissioners’ Picnic, County • Awarding of a $3,200 grant from Pups adopted/redeemed 53 provided essential training to those persons requests from area fire and EMS departments Employee Picnic and Safety Fair, Wood BGSU’s Partnership for Community Dogs euthanized 334 involved in decision-making and response dur- County Day, Cub Scout Family Camp Out, for assistance. Action to research Music Memories of % of pups adopted/redeemed 70.67 ing a local biological terrorism incident. The Halloween Folklore & Funfest, Old Home Wood County % of total dogs adopted/ exercise evaluated several areas, including but The Emergency Management Agency oper- Holiday Tour, and the monthly tea series. redeemed 57.79 not limited to, the adequacy of response plans; ates under the Board of County Commissioners • Relocation of the Asmus Granary to Additional information about the site, the Boom Town area to create a Kennel licenses sold 122 the medical capabilities for treating victims of with input from the Emergen cy Management activities, and education programs offered Blacksmith Shop Dog licenses sold 15,953 a terrorist attack; and review of local medical, Advisory Committee.• 4 WoodCounty OHIO 2002 Annual Report Offi ce of Economic Development Records Center Nursing Home Economic Development Commission Brenda Ransom, David Cecil, Administrator Thomas Blaha, Executive Director Records Manager

The Wood County Nursing Home is a 125- ized fl oor lifts, designed to assist residents The Economic Development Commission, an which produced some contacts with Wood Created by the Board of County Commission- bed health care facility providing both skilled in sit-to-stand, transfers, ambulation and Ohio nonprofi t corporation, strives to expand County business potential. ers in 1998, the Records Center is designed and intermediate level care and services. bathing, were also purchased. High-low the employment base through existing In the area of diversifi cation, the Commis- to provide records management services Available resident services include 24-hour beds with fast-electric motors replaced older industry development and the systematic sion continued its agribusiness initiatives. to Wood County offi ces. The Center, which professional nursing care, nutritional evalu- manually operated beds in several rooms. recruitment of new businesses. The Commis- These included a German technology identi- opened in 2002, offers secure, environ- ation and meal planning, social services An additional gift of $1.5 million received sion actively markets Wood County and its fi ed at the Hannover Industrial Fair which mentally sound storage of paper records, and family support, therapeutic recreational from the Bordner Foundation during 2002 communities to outside industrial prospects, uses agricultural by-products as biomass fuel preservation microfi lming, and digital programs, psycho log i cal intervention, and will enable the facility to proceed with while continuing to provide services to the for heating of greenhouses, grain drying, etc. imagining services. physician oversight. Physical, occupational, renovation plans. County’s communities and existing industries Commission staff and membership continue and speech therapy programs are designed helping them broaden and diversify the tax to work with the patent holder in an effort After years of planning, the Records Center to meet the rehabilitative needs of residents The Nursing Home implemented a base while creating and retaining jobs. to determine market demand and eventual became reality in 2002, with construction of with the goal often being the ability to website during 2002, which can be accessed production capacity for this technology the Center completed in July. An open house return home. Short-term respite care is also at www.woodcountynursinghome.com or was held on November 19 allowing the public The efforts of the Economic Development in Wood County. Other agribusiness and available. Additional services, customized to through a link on the County’s website. tours of the renovated building. Commission resulted in an aggregate of 846 environmental interests assisted include a meet the individual needs of each resident, The Records Center is located on the fi rst A dedicated staff of 115 continued to jobs created (238) or retained (608), and a commercial green bean producer and several are provided as needed. Wood County Nurs- recyclers and re-processors of industrial three fl oors of the Old Jail. Records processing provide a combination of experience, profes- private sector investment of over $72 million ing Home is dually certifi ed for Medicare and and consumer packaging products. The and the records manager’s offi ce are located sionalism and love to the residents. in economic activity during a relatively Medicaid. Commission’s participation on the Revolving on the lower level. A micro fi lm ing and digital austere 2002. The resident activity program included Loan Fund Committee of the (10 county) imaging lab is located on the fi rst fl oor, which During 2002, the Wood County Nursing outings to the Toledo Zoo; Wood County Fair; Lake Erie Basin Resource, Conser va tion and also houses a records storage room. The The Commission continued to identify and second fl oor is dedicated to records storage. Home logged 35,996 resident in-house days. Picnics in the Park; Devil’s Lake, Michigan; respond to the economic development needs Development Agency resulted in bringing Privately funded residents represented 24 weekly shopping trips and a van ride down of the communities it serves. Among those some of that agency’s federal funding to The storage rooms contain high-density mobile shelving units with a maximum stor- percent of those days, while 67 percent were Slippery Elm Trail with a park ranger as initiatives were international marketing, Wood County in aid of a Bradner company Medicaid, eight percent Medicare and one their guide. In-house activities included providing envi ron men tal services. age capacity of 10,500 records boxes. economic diversifi cation, respon siveness A small microfi lm vault stores some of the percent Managed Care or Hospice. Many the annual Euchre tournament, ice cream In addition to the protection of the to the agribusiness community, and further County’s duplicate copy microfi lm. residents came to the facility for a period of social, cook-outs, Ohio State vs. Michigan productive partnering with the County’s fi nancial interests of all Wood County school The Center is equipped with a variety rehabilitation and therapy and then returned game tailgate party, cards, games and educational establishment. districts in tax incentive arrange ments, the to their homes. During 2002, a total of 72 movie nights. Volunteers from local schools, Commission continues its partnering and dia- of devices aimed at preserving important permanent records. Records of enduring residents were discharged to home following churches and service organizations assisted Signifi cant accomplishments in the area logue with the local educational community. historical value can be protected through with many activity programs. The residents of international marketing include participa- A Community Outreach Ambassador team their stay. microfi lming on 16 millimeter or 35 millimeter joined with seniors from other area facili- tion in the Ohio Business and Investment called on the Bowling Green Superintendent With many elderly individuals covered Mission to Europe. Director Blaha was one of Schools addressing subjects ranging from fi lm. Improved accessibility of other records ties participating in bowling tournaments, is possible through digital imaging using the under some form of nursing home care insur- of 34 business and community leaders from employment preparation to daycare, trans- bingo in the park and the Senior Olympics. OnBase system fi rst installed at the Clerk ance plan, the facility continued to expand Ohio invited to participate with Governor portation, housing and other “wrap-around” At the Valentines Day party two resident of Courts Offi ce. Paper records stored at the its use of managed care contracts with Taft and State Development Director services. Ambas sa dors and staff have also couples renewed their wedding vows in a Center are more easily accessed through a bar several providers such as Medical Mutual of Johnson in promoting Ohio as an excellent provided assistance to the Otsego, Lake, special ceremony before family and friends code tracking system that provides informa- Ohio and Paramount Elite enabling residents place to do business. Accompanied by the Northwood, Eastwood, and North Baltimore complete with a wedding cake reception and tion regarding contents, retention periods, and to choose Wood County Nursing Home with Governor, Director Blaha made personal calls school districts in pursuing their complemen- user authorization in addition to tracking the the Bowling Green Eagles sponsored a St. much of the cost covered under their plan. on the corporate offi ces of German-based tary agendas of community service. physical location of records. Patrick’s Day pizza party. Additional annual companies currently doing business in Wood The Offi ce of Economic Devel op ment staff Among improvement projects completed events such as the Halloween party, family County. Additionally, participation at the Two records clerks were hired in August are employees of the Board of County Com- to complete microfi lm, imaging, and records in 2002 was an upgrade of the door alarm Christmas party and resident New Year’s Eve Hannover Industrial Fair resulted in industrial missioners, while the Economic Develop- tracking projects for the County under the security system with state-of-the art “smart party were well attended and enjoyed by contacts which continue to be pursued ment Commission coordinates planning and direction of the Records Manager. In addition locks” providing a more secure environment toward bringing further outside investment residents, staff, families, entertainers and policy for the Offi ce.• to records storage and preservation activities, for all residents. With funds donated by visitors alike. to Wood County. Director Blaha also repre- staff is available to assist and support County the Harold and Ivalou Bordner Foundation, sented Wood County with a northwest Ohio The Wood County Nursing Home offi ces regarding development of records the Nursing Home moved closer to its goal delegation at the Canadian Metalfab and retention schedules and destruction of records operates under the Board of County of becoming a “no-lift” facility by installing Welding Technology trade show in Toronto that have reached their retention periods. Commis sion ers. ceiling mounted resident lifts in four private • The Records Center operates under the and 38 semi-private rooms. Several special- Board of County Commissioners.•

Solid Waste Management District NURSING HOME ADVISORY BOARD** GOVERNING BOARDS & COMMIS SIONS Denny Barrett, Maxine Cross, William Ken Rieman, Director Appointments as of December 31, 2002. Culbertson, Ann Fuerst, Warren Phillips, and Paulette Stephens, and the President and Vice President of the Resident’s Council The Solid Waste Management District In cooperation with the City of Bowling manages solid waste planning and the Green, one and possibly four electrical gen- WOOD COUNTY * Appointed by Commissioners Ex-Offi co Members: Andrew Kalmar and development of recycling opportunities for erating wind turbines will be constructed on **All Members Appoint ed by Commissioners David Cecil residents. It also operates the Wood County the property to generate green power for the PLANNING COMMISSION** Landfi ll, established under 1968 garbage City. Construction on this project is expected COMMUNITY CORRECTIONS BOARD** Anthony Allion, Phillip Bresler, John Brossia, district legislation. All cities, villages, and to begin in 2003. Joni Bretz, James F. Carter, Floyd Craft, Eva Tim Brown, James Carter, Chris Ewald, Patrick unincorporated areas of Wood County are Dhondt, Richard Edwards, John Fawcett, Fitzgerald, Richard Kohring, Alvin Perkins, Discussion was held with the Ohio part of the Wood County Garbage District David Garcia, Kathleen Hamm, Veronica Donna Schuerman, and Tom Weidner Department of Transportation to install a Hobbs, Scott Howard, Andrew Kalmar, Reeve and thereby share fi nancial responsibility for Non-voting Associate Members: Michael turn lane at the Landfi ll entrance on U.S. Kelsey, John Kohl, Charles Kurfess, Alan the Wood County Landfi ll. The mission of Individuals from across the County provide Billmaier, Jerry Greiner, David Miesmer, Larry Route 6. This project will enhance the safety Mayberry, S. Dwight Osterud, Robert Pollex, the County-owned facility is to provide an representation on a number of Wood County Sorrells, and David Steiner environmentally responsible disposal facility of visitors to the Landfi ll. Funds for this governing boards and commissions. Their Mark Reddin, Matt Reger, and Tom Votava, PUBLIC DEFENDER COM MIS SION for citizens, businesses, and industry that project have been set aside over the past role is to provide knowledge and support to COMMUNITY IMPROVEMENT Charles Boss*, John Dunipace*, Elizabeth is self-supporting and meets or exceeds all three years to fully fund construction of the enhance the functioning of County govern- CORPORATION MEMBERS Emmert, Dennis Ferrell*, and Jack Taylor, Jr. regulations. turn lane. The project is expected to move ment. If you are interested in serving as Harold Bateson, Tim Brown, Joseph forward in 2003. a member on a County Board or Commis- Carpenter, James Carter, Maxine Cross, Jill PUBLIC LIBRARY BOARD The Solid Waste Management District The Landfi ll is a best available technol- sion, please contact the Commissioners’ Engle, Andrew Kalmar, David Miesmer, Alvin Suzanne Crawford, Nick Ezzone, John operates under a fi ve-year plan, approved by ogy (BAT) facility with clay and plastic liners; Offi ce in writing to indicate which Board or Perkins, Robert Reitzel, Ronald Sheldrick, and Gibson*, Sharon Hanna, Pamela Herringhaus*, the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency in leachate collection; groundwater and meth- Commission you may have an intereset in Michael Sibbersen Scott McEwen*, and David Swartz* May 1998. An update of this plan began in and provide a copy of a resume for future ane monitoring, and surface water control, HISTORICAL SOCIETY BOARD REGIONAL AIRPORT AUTHOR I TY** 2002 and is due for submittal in 2003. reference. and is licensed by Ohio EPA with oversight Tabatha Arton, Eileen Aufdencamp, Tom James Atkinson, Floyd Chamber lain, Gaylyn Wood County has solid waste disposal by the Wood County Health Department. ALCOHOL DRUG ADDICTION AND Balduf, Tom Bamburowski, Pat Bradford, Finn, Henry Lehrer, Rick Martin, Janet Neville, MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES BOARD Frances Brent, Greg Genzman, Beverley capacity (permitted through the EPA) exceed- The Solid Waste Management District Ione Shelton, and George Stossel Linda Amos*, Galen L. Ash*, Karen Baty, Hirzel, Jan Larson*, Jim Miller, Neil Munger, ing the required minimum of 10 years. This also promotes residential recycling by provid- John Bick*, Jeffrey A. Bunkers*, Reina Dennis Nemec, Ben Waggoner, Robert Wag- TAX INCENTIVE REVIEW COUNCIL** capacity is provided by the two solid waste ing local government entities with $1.00 per Calderon*, Warren Fauver*, Scott Howard, goner, Gale Williamson*, and Paul Yon* John Cheney, Valerie Hovland, and landfi lls located in Wood County: the Ever- capita support for recycling programs. Curb- Cathleen Wenig green Landfi ll, operated by Waste Manage- Allen N. Kepke, Lottie Kern, Stan Korducki*, side recycling programs are available in 14 Mark Krautheim, Nancy Mancuso*, Harold JOB AND FAMILY SERVICES ment, located in Northwood; and the Wood communities, or 71percent of the population. PLANNING COMMITTEE** WOOD SANDUSKY OTTAWA SENECA Rosenberg*, Tom Votova*, Lottie Wilson, COMMUNITY ACTION COMMISSION County Landfi ll, operated by the Solid Waste Fourteen drop-off locations serve more rural Shelian Beaupre, Joseph Catalano, Sue and three vacancies Total Membership - 24 District, located west of Bowling Green, on areas. Together, these programs provide re- Clanton, Kathy Ferrell, Elvira Gonzales, Tim U.S. Route 6 on Tontogany Road. District cycling opportunities to all County residents. BOARD OF MENTAL RETARDATION Harris, Mary Wood, Timothy Tegge, Judy Wood County Members: Melvin L. Browning*, funds are generated from disposal fees paid All local government entities are eligible for AND DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES Knox, R. Anthony Marcson, Frank McLaugh- Traci DeBlasio, Roberta Lane, Carrie Miller, Dolores Black*, Ken Belkofer, Hugh Jane Robb*, and Julia Wedemeyer by users of the two landfi lls and a generation capital grants to assist in reducing waste lin, Paul Mortimer, Karis Murphy, Jean Caumartin, Timothy Harris*, David C. fee paid on all Wood County waste disposed and providing recycling infrastructure. Ap- Smith, Diane Tellez, Martha Woelke, Laurie WORKFORCE POLICY BOARD Mill er*, and Jane Quinn* Young, Ruth Larabee, Doris Herringshaw, and in Ohio landfi lls. plications are due July 1 of each year. Proper Tammy Corral, Frank Day, Andrea Depinet, Christine Simington A vertical expansion, increasing the solid waste disposal practices are a condition BUILDING & GROUNDS COMMIT TEE Kevin Flagg, Reggie Hohenberger, Sandy height of the Landfi ll, is pending Ohio EPA of any grants. Tim Brown, Dorothy Cromley, Joan Gordon, Ex-Offi cio Members: Larry Mershman and Latchem, Tamlea Ledford, Ronald Matter, John approval. With this expansion, the existing Stacey Hann-Ruff, Bill Lorenzen, Robert Melanie Stretchberry Quinn, Mark Senecal, Jenniver Schriver, Linda District staff promoted proper solid waste landfi ll cell has an expected life of 20 years Pollex, Michael Sibbersen, Gale William- Stacy, Jodie Stearns, and Joyce Winters management in classrooms and at com- son, and Irma Wolf LOCAL COURT SECURITY at the current input of 30,000 tons per year. Ad Hoc Members: Thomas Blaha, Douglas munity events such as fairs and festivals. ADVISORY COMMITTEE More than 200 acres of Landfi ll property is BUILDING STANDARDS & APPEALS** Garman, Andrew Kalmar, Kenneth Kritzar, and During 2002, 215 educational presentations Rebecca Bhaer, Tim J. Brown, Nancy Buchan- available to provide for future disposal cells. Fred Arn, Robert Brossia, Tim Enright, Ruth Larabee were made to 6,325 individuals throughout an, Tom Chidester, Brad Conner, Eva Dhondt, Ray Huber, David Kellermeier (al ter nate), Rodney Flemming, Scott Hicks, John Kohl, In 2002, the Landfi ll received 31,363.63 Wood County. These included 98 classroom WORKFORCE POLICY BOARD - Richard Marten, Robert Maurer, Laurie Eric Larson, Nina Oberkirsh, Alvin Perkins, tons of waste for disposal. The Landfi ll visits, 59 meetings, seven workshops, and 52 YOUTH COUNCIL Melchior Huskisson, Kermit Rudolph, Carl Richard Schmidbauer, Thomas Votsberger, accepts yard waste and pallets that are tours of the Bowling Green Recycling Center Judy Didion, Annette Haskins, Doris Her- Snyder, and Connie Workman and Irma Wolf ground into mulch and composted. Concrete and Wood County Landfi ll. ringshaw, Betty Kahlenberg, R. Anthony and asphalt are also accepted and used for CLIENT COMPLAINT REVIEW NORTHWESTERN WATER AND Marcson, Ronald Matter, Linda Stacy, and The Solid Waste Management District Landfi ll road base. Tires are accepted for COMMITTEE FOR CDBG CHIP SEWER DISTRICT Joyce Winters operates under the Board of County Commis- recycling and disposal. A tire collection PROGRAM** John Ault, Paul Brim, John Cheney*, John Ad Hoc Members: Thomas Blaha, Douglas sioners with input from a Policy Committee program is scheduled for the spring of 2003 Michael Billmaier, Robert Brossia, and Current, Karl Hirzel, Jr.*, Alex Molner*, Henry Garman, Kenneth Kritzar, Ruth Larabee, and comprised of seven local offi cials and Richard Kohring to reduce the number of used tires, which Moyer, Phillip Schaffer, and Lyle Schulte Richard Schemmer citizens. • can hold water and breed mosquitoes. WoodCounty OHIO 2002 Annual Report 5

AUDITOR CLERK OF COURTS

The Auditor serves was placed online, auditor.co.wood.oh.us, implemented new software for the issuance The Clerk of Clerk for the Sixth District Court of Appeals. as the County’s chief allowing 24-hour access to individual parcel of dog licenses. Courts maintains She is a member of the Data Processing information, maps and aerial photos. The fi scal offi cer and ap- The consumer protection division the records of Board and Records Commission. In 1998 she Auditor’s Offi ce also began producing large praiser. He prepares inspected 658 commercial scales, 1,838 gas Common Pleas was appointed to the Automated Title Pro- format printing of all map data, including fi nancial reports, acts pumps and electronic scanners for retail and Court, issues cessing Board and continues to serve at the aerial photography, at a very low cost that can as payroll agent, and wholesale use. motor vehicle, and pleasure of Governor Taft. The duties of the be produced at any scale necessary. reviews and pays watercraft titles Clerk of Courts are authorized under many Michael Sibbersen all County bills. The The Data Processing Board Computer Whenever property is sold, the deed is Rebecca E. Bhaer and serves as sections of the Ohio Revised Code. distribution of real and personal property tax Training Lab and Resource Center continued • brought to the Auditor to convey offi cial to enhance computer skills and productivity settlements to the local subdivisions and ownership before it is recorded. During 2002, the distribution of local government funds of County employees. A total of 134 students the Offi ce processed 4,814 such convey anc es, attended the 26 courses offered. are also the responsibility of the Auditor. An including 7,659 different parcels. The County LEGAL DOCUMENTS PROCESSED 42,274 LEGAL DISBURSEMENT agent for the Ohio Department of Taxation, the con vey ance tax totaled $1,136,650 and is For the sixth consecutive year the Appeals cases fi led 77 TO TALS $1,563,373.85 Auditor processes and distributes estate tax directly based on real estate sales in the Auditor’s Offi ce received a Certifi cate of Gen er al fund $393,597.14 payments, sells vendor’s licenses, and is the Achievement for Excellence in Financial Civil cases fi led 820 County. Legal research fees $9,067.50 sealer of weights and measures. He is also Reporting, a prestigious national award Land tax foreclosures fi led 1 The taxation of manufactured homes Computerization fees $29,474.10 secretary of the Budget Commission, Board of recognizing conformance with the highest Domestic relations cases fi led 477 continued to evolve requiring sexennial Fines paid to the County $18,255.96 Revision, and Data Processing Board. standards for preparation of state and local Domestic violence cases fi led 137 and triennial appraisals of manu fac tured government annual fi nancial reports, from Fines paid to the Law Library $750.00 homes based on market value. During 2002, Domestic stalking civil protection The statutory triennial update of values for the the Govern ment Finance Offi cers Association cases fi led 118 Statutory fees paid to 436 manufactured homes were conveyed, 67,621 parcels of real property was completed of the United States and Canada (GFOA) for non-Wood County entities $64,525.04 bringing the total of registered manufactured Domestic cases reopened 482 in 2002. Value changes were applied as the County’s 2001 Comprehensive Annual Funding shelters for victims homes to 4,910 with a total taxable value of Criminal cases fi led 497 required based on sales history from the prior Financial Report (CAFR). of domestic violence $13,712.00 $19,026,583. Judgment liens fi led 618 three years, resulting in a total real estate value The Wood County Citizen’s Financial Re- Fees paid to the Sheriff $38,293.05 The Homestead Exemption program ad- Foreign judgments fi led 11 of $2,201,097,540. Special assessments for port is available from the Auditor’s Offi ce and Fines paid to the Sheriff $0 ministered by the Offi ce provided property tax State tax liens fi led 503 waterlines, sewers, ditches, etc., were also is also provided on the Auditor’s website. Fines paid to Ohio Board of Pharmacy $0 relief for 1,700 elderly and disabled residents collected on the real estate tax duplicate and It provides a brief fi nancial analysis of the Executions fi led 5 who met income requirements. The maximum Fines paid to County police depts.$11,252.81 distributed to subdi vi sions. County’s revenues and expenditures along Total journal entry pages processed 35,335 allowable income continues to be indexed Interest earned on CD accounts $55,038.13 During 2002, the GIS (computerized map- with information about the County and local Optometry licenses fi led 0 annually for infl ation. Fees paid to guardian ad litems $1,701.75 ping system) improved access to real estate economy. Though not required by statute, Notary commissions fi led 466 Fees paid to Arbitrators $1,022.00 information. New aerial photos taken in April The Offi ce assisted in the preparation of this document provides a higher level of Passport applications accepted 997 Fees paid to Appraisers $20,700.00 were accessible to all County residents, agen- 5,784 personal property tax returns, a busi- public account abil i ty. Criminal investigations 16 cies, and organizations. These photos can be ness tax paid on inventory and equipment. The Auditor is authorized to perform his Sundries–includes, but not limited to: bond Criminal records checks 1,647 refunds, deposits less costs or deposits in viewed in conjunction with the last (1998) aer- As agent for the County Dog and Kennel duties under Section 319, 322, 323, 5701- Coroner’s reports 67 whole refunded, court ordered civil, domestic ial photos to view changes that have occurred Fund, the Auditor sold 15,953 dog licenses 5743, et al. of the Ohio Revised Code.• and criminal disburse ments (i.e. resti tu tion), during these years. Real estate information and 121 kennel licenses. In 2002, the Offi ce TITLE DOCUMENTS PROCESSED 111,399 and appropriation disbursements. $905,806.37 Auto titles, duplicates & memo titles 64,023 TITLE DISBURSEMENT CORONER Mortgages recorded 13,108 TOTALS $14,763,625.59 2002 CORO NER CASES Salvage titles 264 Wood County The Coroner evalu- health. A licensed physician, the Coroner Auto Ac ci dents 13 Penalties 3,395 Certifi cate of Title Fund $427,424.92 Inspections 6,874 ates and rules on all performs lab tests, x-rays, or autopsies Other Accidents 1 Division of Watercraft violent, acci den tal, as needed. The Coroner generally does Affi davits 21,095 Motorcycle Accidents 1 Watercraft Fees $2,176.50 and suspi cious cir- not investigate deaths that occur from Manufactured home fee 727 cumstance deaths, natural causes, when the person has a Train Accidents 0 State of Ohio Boat titles, duplicates and memo titles Motor vehicle and Watercraft homi cides, suicides, family physician. An offi cial report of the Homicides 2 (includes charged replacement titles) 791 casual and dealer tax $14,172,399.67 and sudden deaths Coroner’s fi ndings is fi led with the Clerk Natural Deaths 27 Mortgages recorded 65 Certifi cate of title fees $154,750.50 of persons in of Courts. The Coroner is authorized to Watercraft affi davits 942 Dou glas S. Hess, M.D. apparent good perform his duties under Chapter 313 of Suicides 13 Motor vehicle inspection fees $6,874.00 Watercraft penalties 115 the Ohio Revised Code. • Total Cases 57

COURT OF COMMON PLEAS COURT OF COMMON PLEAS General Division Probate and Juvenile Division

The Court of Com- Public Library Board. Cases heard in The Juvenile Court hears cases concerning Judge Woessner during the year. The CASA mon Pleas, General The Judges also Probate Court traffi c offenses, delinquency, unruliness, program received State certifi cation in Division, handles receive and approve involve decedent’s neglect, abuse, dependency, and custody, 2002 from the Ohio CASA program and was felony criminal applications for estates, guardian- involving individuals under the age of 18, as recognized for its accomplishments by the matters; domestic notary public. ships, conservator- well as paternity cases for adults and chil- Attorney General’s Offi ce. As of December relations matters, ships, testamen- During 2002, the dren. The Court may also hear misdemeanor 31, 2002, 36 CASA volunteers continue to including divorce, tary trusts, civil Court completed cases involving adults who have victimized advocate for 86 children. dissolution, change actions, adoptions, 2,442 cases and children and juvenile traffi c offenses. The of custody, visita- mental illness and The Court successfully obtained major 1,160 cases Juvenile Detention Center is also adminis- tion and child and retardation, minor grant funding during the year. These grants remained pending. tered through the Juvenile Court. Robert C. Pollex spousal support Charles F. Kurfess David E. Woessner settlements, and included “Reclaim Ohio” funds from the Ohio Of the total cases COURTROOM 1 enforcement and COURTROOM 4 wrongful deaths. In addition, the Probate Department of Youth Services; the Solid completed, 801 were Following a groundbreaking in November modifi cation; general civil matters, including Court provides registration services for Waste Management District; Americorps; general civil, 1,225 were domestic relations, 2001, the renovation and expansion project those arising out of auto accidents, product births, name changes, miscellaneous fi lings, the offi ce of Criminal Justice Services; and and 416 were criminal. liability claims, real estate matters contract and marriage applications. In addition to at the Juvenile Court came to a close in a United States/State of Ohio Detention disputes; and administrative appeals such Judge Kurfess retired on December 31 trial proceedings, the Probate Court Judge September 2002. The renovation and expan- Center funding grant. as those in the area of workers compensa- after 12 years of service to the bench. appoints members to the Board of Mental sion project provided more lobby area for The Juvenile Court Judge is authorized tion, unemployment compensation and Retardation and Developmental Disabilities the public, new public restrooms, additional The Court of Common Pleas operates under to perform his duties as outlined in, but appeals from certain local government as well as the Board of the Wood County waiting and conference areas for court Title 23 of the Ohio Revised Code. not limited to, Section 2151.23 of the Ohio decisions. • Park District. He also may appoint Wood users, and the separation of administrative offi ces from Court traffi c. Revised Code.• Adult Probation County District Library Trustees, Township During 2002, Judge Trustees, Wood County Humane Agents, and The Juvenile Court had 4,270 cases fi led Kelsey served Eva Dhondt, Director Special Deputy Clerks. and 4,140 cases disposed of in 2002. as Administra- Court Security tive Judge and The Adult Probation Department, under As of January 1, 2002, a total of 1,067 cases The 48-bed Juvenile Detention Center Thomas G. Chidester, represented the the authority of the Common Pleas Court, were pending in Probate Court. During 2002, provided both pretrial and short-term com- Chief Court Constable County on the conducts pre-sentence investigations for 801 new cases were fi led, and 789 cases mitments for 1,019 residents during 2002. Maumee Con- purposes of sentencing, and supervises felony were disposed of, leaving a balance of 1,079 This fi gure included 768 males and 251 Court Constables are the primary law servancy District level offenders, who are placed under court- cases pending as of December 31, 2002. females. enforcement offi cers at the Courthouse Court; Judge Pollex ordered supervision. The Department operates Complex, and provide for the safety and The Court granted 807 marriage applica- The Juvenile Court Probation Depart- served as Chairman an intake/pretrial division, a drug testing ment supervised 708 youth and adults on security of the courts, employ ees at the site Reeve Kelsey of the Judicial tions during the year. Also, 75 cases were division, and the work release program. Probation during 2002. The year also saw and the visiting public. Each Court Constable COURTROOM 2 Corrections Board; fi led and processed in the miscel la neous 320 youth perform 6,298 hours of community is a State Certifi ed Peace Offi cer responsible and Judge Woessner of the Probate and category, including name changes, birth In 2002, the Adult Probation Department service work and $10,550 in restitution for enforcing the law, conducting investiga- Juvenile Division served as Presiding Judge registrations, etc. conducted pre-sentence investigations on 243 was returned to victims of delinquent acts tions, and providing fi rst aid. They also man- and Court Security Judge. offenders, 219 of whom were then placed In June, a new microfi lm reader and through the Probation Department. Programs age the systems that monitor fi re, panic and The General Division Judges supervise under the Department’s supervision. printer was installed. This was the fi rst facilitated by the Probation Department intrusion alarms as well as those that control the Grand Jury, which determines if, event of many to provide better public Throughout the year, the Department included: Intensive Probation, the Theft access to the buildings. Court Security pro- based upon the evidence presented by the access, improved availability and quality of supervised 774 offenders. Of those, 201 Offenders Program, Electronic Monitoring, vides a variety of ancillary services to other Prosecuting Attorney, probable cause exists individuals were terminated from supervision, records, and one-on-one service. With the and Diversionary Tours of the Court and departments at the Courthouse Complex and to charge an accused with a felony criminal leaving 573 individuals under direct control on opening of the Records Center, several years Detention Center. The Court also continued assists other agencies, upon request, with offense. If the Grand Jury so fi nds, they December 31, 2002. worth of records were moved to set up a to assist with the Alternative School for at input on the development of security efforts return an indictment, advising the accused public workstation, relocate our genealogy risk and expelled students. at their remote facilities. of the nature of the charges. The matter With funding from the Ohio Department of personnel to assist the public, and make then goes before the Court for further Rehabilitation and Correction, the Department Another Juvenile Court Department, the room for the records scanner which is During 2002, the Court Security Depart- proceedings. su per vised 55 offenders placed in the Inten- Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) expected in 2003. ment provided assistance with several sive Supervision Probation and 112 placed in program, supervised 44 volunteers in 2002 The Judges supervise the Adult major projects at the Courthouse Complex. the Electronic Monitoring programs. The Probate Court Judge is authorized to Probation Department, the Court Security who advocated for 147 children alleg- perform his duties under Chapter 2101 of the Security assistance was provided during the program, appoint and supervise the Jury The Department conducted 1,680 drug edly abused or neglected, providing over Ohio Revised Code. extensive restoration of the courthouse and Commission, and appoint members to tests and supervised the incarceration of 51 • 3,000 hours of service. Fifteen new CASA old jail façades. The large volume of scaf- the Veterans Service Commission, Public offenders in the work release program, which volunteers received 40 hours of pre-service folding surrounding the Courthouse required Defender Commission and the Wood County is housed at the Justice Center. training and were sworn into service by • CONTINUED ON PAGE 6... 6 WoodCounty OHIO 2002 Annual Report

PROSECUTING ATTORNEY RECORDER

The Offi ce of 16th, the 4th Annual Wood County Youth The Recorder’s Ongoing growth in the County and lower the Prosecuting Olympics were held. This event focused Offi ce is a service mortgage interest rates brought record Attorney includes on “Compe ti tion without Confl ict”. The offi ce committed numbers to the Recorder’s Offi ce again in three divisions. The Drug Abuse Prevention Calendar contest to and responsible 2002. A total of 36,404 documents were re- criminal division celebrated its 13th year. Kayla McCloskey, for keeping and corded and/or fi led. A total of $1,123,551.28 prosecutes all an eighth grader from the Lake School maintaining accu- was collected in fees, of which $142,552 felony criminal rate records of real ENGINEER Alan Mayberry District, was the year’s winner. Her drawing Sue Kinder was deposited into a supplemental equip- offenses occurring is featured on the 2003 calendar cover. estate documents, ment fund. Total fees collected in previous Anthony Allion in the County. This duty includes presenting ensuring that the documents are up-to-date, years are as follows: $988,079 in 2001; cases to the Grand Jury. The juvenile divi- The Prosecuting Attorney hosted the an- legible, and easily accessible to the public. $595,982 in 2000; $653,785 in 1999; and sion prosecutes all cases involving juvenile nual law enforcement conference. The 100 The meticulous and timely handling of $690,785 in 1998. The Engineer has the responsibility of offenders. Cases range from serious felonies participants discussed updates in the law documents is the essence of the Recorder’s maintaining highways, bridges, culverts, and to “status” offenses (i.e., abused, neglected and related topics including terrorism and responsibility. As the repository of records The Recorder is authorized to perform her hundreds of traffi c control signs in a safe and and dependent children). The civil division seizure of computers. for all property transactions in the County, duties under numerous sections of the Ohio proper manner each day of the year. Under provides legal services to the County, The speaker’s bureau continued to provide the Recorder’s Offi ce safeguards every prop- Revised Code. The Recorder also serves on the ditch maintenance program, the Engineer including school districts and townships. erty owner’s title. Real estate documents presentations on a variety of subjects to vari- the Data Processing Board and the Records is responsible for 550 miles of the more than The Prosecutor’s Offi ce has nine attorneys, constitute a major portion of the recordings ous organizations within the County. Commission Board.• 3,000 miles of ditches in the County. The a victim services unit, an investigator, youth and/or fi lings. Financing statements on per- Engineer’s Offi ce performs engineering work violence prevention program staff, and In November, Prosecuting Attorney May- sonal property and military discharge papers on all ditch construction and maintenance support staff. berry was elected to serve as Common Pleas are also fi led in the Recorder’s Offi ce. projects. The Engineer is also required to Court Judge commencing January 1, 2003. maintain tax maps and survey records. He The Prosecutor’s Offi ce sponsored various The Republican Central Committee met on is a member of the Planning Commission youth violence prevention programs. The January 6, 2003, and appointed Raymond 2002 DOCUMENTS and serves as engineer for each of the 19 Juvenile Mediation Program (JuMP) received Fischer, assistant prosecuting attorney, to fi ll Deeds ...... 4,560 townships. grant funding to help reduce juvenile crime Mr. Mayberry’s remaining term. Judgment entries, affi davits, agreements and certifi cates for transfer...... 1,486 The Engineer is authorized to perform his by providing mediation to certain offenders. The Prosecuting Attorney is authorized to duties under Chapter 315 of the Ohio In an effort to prevent school violence, the perform his duties under Chapter 308 of the Mortgages (total value $4,322,602,304) ...... 13,063 Revised Code. 4-S student mediation program continued in • Ohio Revised Code. Mortgage assignments, assumptions, release of maker, waivers of priority, each school district in the County. On March • mortgage agreements and options...... 2,565 SOURCES OF 2002 FUNDS Land Contracts ...... 44 Motor Vehicle License Fees $3,697,203.10 COURT SECURITY CONT. FROM PG. 5... Mortgages released (with a value of $1,487,683,718)...... 11,517 Gasoline Tax $1,377,268.16 Rights of way and easements ...... 220 additional attention from the staff. With training exercise with the Sheriff’s SRT County General Fund $311,322.92 Leases ...... 29 the transformation of the Old Jail into (Special Response Team) and local fi rst Traffi c Fines & Receipts $95,833.96 functional offi ce space, Court Security responder agencies to facilitate inter-de- Mechanics liens...... 101 coordinated the security system for the partmental cooperation and communica- Reimbursements $449,458.39 Lease assignments ...... 23 new County Records Center and Law tion relating to courthouse emergencies. Library and provided oversight for the The Department also participated in Plats (creating 548 lots) ...... 37 USAGE OF 2002 FUNDS installation of equipment. The Depart- the annual on-site training conducted Condominiums (creating 24 units) ...... 8 Labor and Fringes $2,036,647.82 ment also coordinated upgrades to the for bomb threats, fi res and tornados public address system in all buildings. throughout the year. Road Material and Financing statements, security agreements...... 102 Using guidelines of the Ohio Contracts $1,928,517.53 Operating under the authority and Terminations...... 320 Supreme Court and the Ohio Judicial supervision of the Common Pleas Court Bridge Material and Conference, the Department routinely Judges, the Department reported to Financing statement assignments, amendments and releases ...... 33 Contracts $2,360,657.50 conducted training for new employees Judge David E. Woessner, who served Miscellaneous documents(including release of easements, mechanic lien releases, assigned to court related functions. In as the Court Security Judge during Equipment $224,050.07 notice to commence, lease releases, powers of attorney, partnerships, state liens, September, the Department hosted a 2002. Repair Supplies & Fuel $248,884.54 • release of state liens, federal tax liens,and release of federal tax liens ...... 2,186

SHERIFF

As the County’s tion in efforts to remain prepared to protect Total meals served - Justice Center and Students in seventh grade from Accidents investigated ______879 chief law enforce- the citizens of Wood County. Juvenile Detention Center ______182,977 Eastwood Middle ______79 Injury accidents ______163 ment offi cer, the Average daily meal cost ______$1.08 Students with Special Needs from Injured persons ______226 Sheriff provides The Sheriff is authorized to perform Penta County Living Skill Center______12 Fatal accidents______2 law enforcement, his duties under Chapter 311 of the Ohio LITTER CONTROL DIVISION ______Safety Towns in Weston, Perrysburg, correctional Revised Code.• Miles of road debris collection______241.1 North Baltimore ______3 Citations issued from accidents ______281 services, and Amount of debris and litter collected (lbs.) _ 42,943 Driving under the infl uence – DUI______46 2002 WOOD COUNTY COMMUNITY POLICING John W. Kohl civil services to Driving under suspension – DUS ______75 SHERIFF’S OFFICE REPORT Recycled from WCSO & WCJC (lbs.)______37,234 Bicycle Registration Program______262 residents. The Sheriff polices and serves all Tires picked up and disposed of per state law _ 478 Human Service Agencies______9 TYPES OF CRIMES INVESTIGATED ______CIVIL DIVISION ______unincorporated areas and villages, provides Number of inmates who participated _____ 698 Schools ______30 Murder and non-negligent manslaugh ter ______1 contract police services to townships and Sheriff foreclosure property sales ______89 Inmate hours worked on roadside ______5,121 Concerned Citizens (non-affi liated parent)______7 Attempted of forced rape ______3 munic i pal i ties, and assists municipalities Sheriff forecloseure Notice and Appraisals___ 151 Inmate hours worked at WC Landfi ll Volunteer Service Organization Other sexual assaults ______27 Proceeds from parcels sold ______$1,410,813.51 upon request. & Recycling Center______864 (Lion’s, Rotary, Etc.)______7 Aggravated assaults______21 Execution of certifi cates of Judgment______19 Inmate hours worked at WC Fair & Festivals__ 600 Local Government (town or city government)___ 33 Simple assaults ______120 Although the workload continued to increase Money from fees & copies ______$160,132.84 Inmate hours worked at Landfi ll______20 Law Enforcement ______15 Domestic violence and domestic disputes____ 349 and the jail population reached capacity, Warrants received (local & foreign) ______2,061 Complaints received and inves ti gat ed ______49 Business Community______15 Arrests from domestic violence ______105 major incidents of random crime or violence Warrants served (local & foreign) ______1,557 Health Care ______7 Robbery______3 were virtually nonexistent in Wood County Court papers served ______1,782 911 DIVISION______Faith Community ______5 Breaking and entering______208 during 2002. Prisoner transports to penal institutions _____ 486 Total number of 911 calls by WCSO ______6,833 Block Watch ______3 Burglary______104 Miles traveled for the Civil Division _____ 110,745 Total number of 911 calls by all Other Specialized Group ______4 Thefts ______578 The Sheriff’s commitment to Homeland answering points ______22,876 Motor vehicle thefts ______59 Security remained a priority as he assigned JUSTICE CENTER ______ROAD PATROL DIVISION ______DARE ______Arson ______2 deputies to local FBI and DEA tasks forces to Total inmates booked ______3,873 Miles Driven ______1,077,689 Participating School Districts: Elmwood, East- Vandalism/criminal damaging ______496 help combat widespread crimes throughout Total inmates released ______3,937 Complaints received and inves ti gat ed ____ 16,787 wood, Otsego, McComb, and North Baltimore Trespassing ______22 the region. Staff continued to receive Average daily population______119 CORE students instructed and Criminal charges ______655 training in the areas of disaster relief and Total local transports ______814 graduated from DARE ______502 Traffi c charges______591 defense against weapons of mass destruc- Total inmates transported ______1,425 Students in grades K-5 instructed ______961 Traffi c warnings______77

TREASURER COMMISSIONERS ADOPT COUNTY FLAG

The Treasurer over- The Treasurer’s website provides infor- Commissioners for agricultural heritage. Nineteen white stars, sees the receipt mation on how to enroll in the automatic adoption. one for each township, signify the bright and disbursement withdrawal. Change of address and remis- On March 20, 2002 future of our County and all her diverse citi- of funds for the sion of penalty forms, as well as real estate the Buildings and zens. Finally, 1820 is the year Wood County County and is tax information are also accessible online at Grounds Committee was established. As a whole, the design of responsible for www.co.wood.oh.us/treasurer. the Wood County fl ag recalls a remarkable collecting taxes for recommended All investments made by the Treasurer’s heritage and challenges us to continue to Jill Engle the County as well a design to the Offi ce were fully collateralized and suf- work together toward a productive future. as for the schools, municipalities, and town- Commissioners for fi ciently liquid to enable the County to ships within the County. The two largest and adoption as the A fl ag is on permanent display in the Fifth meet reasonable anticipated operating most noted sources of revenue are generated offi cial fl ag of Wood Floor Lobby of the County Offi ce Bulding for requirements. Investment income for 2002 through real and personal property taxes. County, Ohio. citizens to view. The Commissioners adopted was down slightly to $2,742,960.20, which the fl ag as the offi cial fl ag of Wood County More than 50 area fi nancial offi ces serve The fl ag of Wood refl ects the economic climate. on Wednesday, May 1, 2002. the County as real estate tax payment sites. County is intended Qualifying taxpayers may utilize an available The Treasurer serves on the Budget to symbolize our The Commissioners extend sincere thanks escrow program or delinquent tax repayment Commission, Board of Revision, and Data Early last year, the Ohio Bicentennial Com- community history and sense of place. The to the following members of the Buildings program. The Treasurer’s Offi ce also collects Processing Board in addition to her duties mission made a request to Ohio’s County blue background is adapted from the U.S. and Grounds Committee for their hard work taxes on mobile homes and inheritance. as Investing Authority for the Investment Commissioners to provide a county fl ag for fl ag and calls to mind our national bonds. over the past year to produce a fl ag that Advisory Board. use as part of a display of Ohio County Flags The red of the Wood County silhouette and truly defi nes the proud heritage of our great Through advancements in technology, the The Treasurer is authorized to perform her during 2003 at the Statehouse in Columbus. ribbon symbolizes the lifeblood of all the County. Dorothy Cromley, Joan Gordon, Bill Treasurer’s Offi ce began accepting payments duties under Section 321 and 323 of the Ohio The Wood County Commissioners charged men and women who have lived amidst the Lorenzen, Robert Pollex, Tim Brown, Stacey for real estate tax by credit card, with a con- Revised Code.• the County’s Buildings and Grounds Com- Great Black Swamp. Wood County is shown Hann-Ruff, Mike Sibbersen, Irma Wolf and venience fee attached, or through automatic mittee with the responsibility of creating prominently on the gold fi eld of the State of Gale Williamson.• withdrawal from bank accounts in 2002. and recommending a fl ag design to the Ohio. The harvest gold represents our rich WoodCounty OHIO 2002 Annual Report 7

INDEPENDENT AGENCIES

ALCOHOL, DRUG ADDIC TION AND to crisis intervention and inpatient care. BOARD OF ELECTIONS Wood County voters cast their ballots MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES BOARD The union of Board and contract agencies Deborah S. Hazard, Director in 104 precincts in 74 locations. The enabled the system of care to be locally voter registration total for Wood County OOD OUNTY Larry Mershman, Executive Director Terry L. Burton, Director W C accountable, accessible and fl exible in order is approximately 77,000 voters. This is to facilitate collaboration with all community The Board of Elections is responsible for the an increase of 2.6 percent from the 2001 The purpose of the Wood County Alcohol, resources in Wood County. administration and execution of primary, voter roles. Citizens wishing to become Drug Addiction and Mental Health Services a registered voter may do so at the Board The Board purchased more than $13 general and special elections. These (ADAMHS) Board is to ensure that Wood of Elections offi ce, any Bureau of Motor County residents have access to a high million in alcohol, drug and mental health responsibilities include the administration of the absentee voter program, coordination Vehicles location, any public library and most quality array of community-based behavioral services in fi scal year 2002 and expanded of the polling offi cial volunteers, auditing city or village offi ces. HOW TO CONTACT US... health care services. The Board’s statutory the following services: enhanced consumer choice in psychiatric facilities; managed of all campaign fi nancial reports, and Due to the passage of federal legislation, requirements are to plan, monitor, evaluate CALL 419.354.9000 psychiatric hospital admissions; developed verifi cation of all candidates and ballot issues the Help America Vote Act of 2002, a and fund necessary alcohol, drug addiction and let us help you or additional support services and activities for compliance with all Ohio Revised Code massive overhaul is planned for the elections and mental health services. While the Board call toll-free from: through the Connection Center; and provided requirements. In addition the offi ce maintains process. For the fi rst time all of Ohio’s 88 does not provide services, it does contract essential support for the No Wrong Door all current and historical voter information, as counties will be part of one centralized voter Deshler/Hoytville: 419.278.3797 with service providers for these necessary well as detailed election records, which are project. The Board also continued planning regis tra tion database administered by the Grand Rapids: 419.832.1541 services. Effective management by the for compliance with the Health Insurance made available to the public. Secretary of State’s offi ce. In addition, ballot Board maximizes the success of mental and Portability Accountability Act (HIPAA). tabulation systems will be modernized. Fostoria/Rising Sun: 419.457.4545 health, alcohol and drug addiction services In 2002, the Board of Elections held four The Wood County Board of Elections Perrysburg/Toledo: 419.243.4223 in Wood County. The Board contracts with Revenue for fi scal year 2002 totaled elections: two Special Elections held on the following service providers to provide $10,727,216. Expenses for the fi scal year website at www.co.wood.oh.us/boe, Luckey/Stony Ridge: 419.833.5211 February 5 and August 6; a Primary Election contains information regarding the current the System of Care: Children’s Resource totaled $11,224,370. held on May 7 and a General Election on election calendar, elected offi cials, voting North Baltimore/Bloomdale: 419.257.3259 Center, Family and Child Abuse Prevention The offi ce of Alcohol, Drug Addiction and November 5. Voters selected federal, information as well as election results. Visit our website: www.co.wood.oh.us Center, Family Service of Wood County, and Mental Health Services operates under the state and county offi ce holders as well as Behavioral Connections of Wood County. direction of an 18-member board. Ten of the state and county party central committee The Board of Elections operates under board members are appointed by the County representatives. In addition voters considered the direction of a four-member board and the The community-based system success ful ly Com mis sion ers, four by the Ohio Department 50 local issues during the year including Ohio Secretary of State. • created a continuum of care for mental of Mental Health, and the remaining four by six city charter amendments, one proposed health and alcohol/drug addiction services the Ohio Department of Alcohol and Drug ordinance, two proposed zoning plans and 41 ranging from prevention and counseling Addiction Services.• tax issues.

EDUCATIONAL SERVICE CENTER Douglas M. Garman, Ph. D., Superintendent the Virtual Learning Academy, an Alternative awarded to the Center for the Wood County ment of Job & Family Services and the Ohio local employees provided services to the School, and education for adjudicated youth Youth Employment Training Program. These Works First PRC program. 18,147student enrollment of Wood County’s funds enabled at-risk youth specialists to school districts. The Educational Service Center strives through the Juvenile Detention Center and Another contract totaling $197,000 was extend services and summer employment to to provide and enhance student-centered Juvenile Residential Center. Extended learn- awarded to the Center for the Workforce The Educational Service Center operates several children in Wood County who would educational services and programs in order ing opportunities and enrichment programs Investment Act (WIA) Youth Program. The under a fi ve-person Governing Board that is otherwise not have qualifi ed for services. to realize the full potential of each student in are available through fi ve after-school and goal of the Wood County Youth Program is to elected at large from within Wood County.• the communities served. This is accom - summer Community Learning Centers. A contract in the amount of $116,320 was provide all qualifying youth help in acquiring Wood County School Dis trict Participation plished by providing leadership, consultation awarded to the Center for Youth Employment necessary skills and work experiences to suc- and direct student services within Wood The Educational Service Center secures Services through Prevention, Retention, and cessfully transition into adulthood, careers, Bowling Green 3,356 Eastwood 1,936 County school districts. A broad range of federal and state grants, as well as other Contingency (PRC) funding. The program and/or further education and training. This is Elmwood 1,260 quality, cost-effective services are available funding sources, that keep local costs to targeted at-risk youth and introduced them to achieved through activities such as instruc- Lake 1,742 to local school districts including, curriculum a minimum. Revenue for fi scal year 2002 numerous long-term, broad-range programs tion of basic skills and pre-employment North Baltimore 872 development, student recognition and enrich- totaled $11,932,395. This was comprised of that included job placement assistance, occu- work maturity components, job placement as- Northwood 1,008 ment programs, professional development for 22 percent state support, 12 percent federal pational skills training, leadership develop- sistance, support for students and employers, Otsego 1,675 instructional staff, technical assistance to ad- support, and 66 percent from the local level. ment, career exploration, tutoring and study and occupation skills training. Perrysburg 4,203 ministrators, and many collaborative special Expenditures for the fi scal year totaled skills, and adult mentoring. Funding for the Services are designed to respond to the Rossford 2,095 education programs and services. The Center $11,455,258. Youth Employment Services program is made diverse needs of nine school districts in TOTAL: 18,147 provides local educational options such as A grant in the amount of $10,000 was available through the Wood County Depart- Wood County. A professional staff of 307

LAW LIBRARY over a decade ago, the bulk and weight NORTHWESTERN WATER AND the availability of childhood vaccines. HEALTH DEPARTMENT of the Law Library collection required While the Health Department provides Judith Gill, Librarian SEWER DISTRICT Larry M. Sorrells, re lo ca tion to a facility outside Courthouse over 10,000 immunizations annually to Jerry Greiner, Executive Director RS, MSEH Health Commissioner Square. New technol o gies in data storage children and adults, a number of children Ohio Law requires each County to provide a and retrieval allowed the collection to shrink entered school without receiving all of the law library for judges and elected offi cials. The Northwestern Water and Sewer District The Wood County Health Department in size and weight, while still maintaining recommended immunizations in the fall of A six member Board of Trustees deter mines is responsible for providing water and the needed infor ma tion. promotes conditions that allow people in 2002. On the other hand, fl u and pneumo- policy matters and general gover nance, wastewater treatment services to County the County to lead healthy lives by routinely nia vaccines, especially important for older while the Law Librarian is responsible for The Law Library collec tion includes residents. The District provides these reviewing health related issues and taking residents, were available in adequate daily admin is tra tion. The County provides online access to statues, regulations and services through agreements with Lucas action to prevent illness and injuries. quantities this year. funding for the facility and staff. Operating case reports for the federal level and all County, Bowling Green, Fostoria, Oregon, Monitoring the environmental condi- expenses, books, and supplies are funded 50 states. The conversion to digital format Perrysburg and Toledo. The District operates The federal government provided fi nan- tions, promoting healthy behaviors, and by fi ne monies from the Courts. The provided a more space-effi cient facility, as more than 50 pump stations, 2 water towers, cial assistance to improve the capacity to providing preventive services are the main Library’s primary mission is to provide for well as better research through electronic thousands of water fi re hydrants and more identify possible biological terrorist attacks approaches used to fulfi ll the mission of the in for ma tion needs of the Courts and search methods and up-to-the-minute than 200 miles of water lines and sanitary early, and to respond to such events if this public health agency. An independent local government. Although the Library is information. sewers. necessary. These funds supported an Board of Health governs the 53 employees a private library, the Board of Trustees has emergency epidemiologist and response The hard copy collec tion includes extended access to the public as a matter of The Regional Water and Sewer District was that provide over 100 health services for coordinator. The Department, working scholarly works and legal practice materials, community service. renamed in January 2002 to the Northwest- the people of Wood County. with regional, state and federal partners, with an empha sis on matters governed by ern Water and Sewer District. The name responded to the call for plans to vaccinate Ohio law. With the completion of the Renovation work change better refl ects the District’s coverage During 2002, the Health Department com- portions of our population against an old at the Old Jail, the Law Library moved back The Law Library oper ates under Section pleted the Community Health Assessment. area. villain, smallpox. Responding to large to the Courthouse Complex Campus. Just 3375.48 et. seq. of the Ohio Revised Code.• Supported generously by the Wood County emergencies and implementing mass Continued strong growth in residential Hospital Foundation, the advisory commit- immunization programs will require more and commercial development fueled the con- tee engaged Ned Baker, MPH, to facilitate staff than the Health Department has OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY concepts and gained knowledge in weed tinued need for utilities in the County. The the project. More than 1,200 residents par- available. Volunteers willing to be trained EXTENSION control, pond construction, and renovation District issued 150 sanitary sewer permits techniques. and 100 water permits for services. This in ticipated in a community health survey and for specifi c tasks are currently being Doris Herringshaw, Extension Agent, turn increased the District’s customer base. approximately 100 individuals, representing sought. Forms to register for volunteer duty Family & Consumer Sciences & County Chair More than 150 local farmers participated all segments of the community, looked at are available the Department’s website. in private pesticide applicator license Highly visible growth occurred in areas such the health system, local environmental is- as US Route 20. Residential needs were The Ohio State University Extension Offi ce re-certifi cation sessions that focused on sues, and personal health concerns of resi- The Department continued to as- met in Lake Township, Perry Township, Per- strives to provide current, up-to-date informa- information about development and issues dents of all ages and circumstances in the sist communities to remove/demolish rysburg Township, and Middleton Township. tion on agriculture and natural resources, in pesticide use including wearing personal County. The fi nal report provides direction structures that have become hazardous to Repair and replacement projects required at- community development, family and consumer protective equipment and using pesticide to local health and human service agencies the health and safety of the community. tention in Millbury, Jerry City and Walbridge. During 2002, the Department was directly sciences and 4-H youth development. management practices to protect water so that, working together, improvements to supplies. Farm Land Rental workshops Planning continued for service to Rudolph, the health of the people living and working involved in the management of the demoli- Custar, Milton Center, Risingsun, and Lake During 2002, the Extension Offi ce hosted an assisted landowners and farmer tenants in the County will continue. The report, tion of 19 structures, a 20 percent increase Township, in addition to new water needs in Agriculture Outlook and Policy Meeting that reach agreement on land lease issues. Six released in January 2003, can be viewed over the previous year. Jerry City and Moline. informed farmers and agri-business about crop meetings, held with the local Farm Service on the Department’s website. Wood County established a Child Fatal- and livestock market forecasts, environmental Agency, provided Farm Bill education. More In October, the District moved into its new The West Nile Virus, fi rst detected in ity Review process and annually reviews policy, and impacts of the Farm Bill. The Offi ce than 300 farmers received information about location at 12560 Middleton Pike, Middleton Wood County birds in 2001, continued to all resident deaths for those under 18 also hosted the Ohio County Commissioners’ the Extension Farm Bill calculator computer Township. The new facility houses the spread with the fi rst human case reported years of age. Days, co-sponsored by the County Commis- program to help them make informed deci- District’s 32 employees from which they in the summer of 2002. Mosquito-control The Department’s website provided sioners Association of Ohio. More than 175 sions as they enroll in the new Farm Bill. operate north, south, east and west within efforts help prevent the disease, but useful information regarding current health participants from across Ohio toured the A total of 4,050 youth ages fi ve to 18 Wood County. Of the employees working individuals still need to protect themselves issues including West Nile Virus, Smallpox sights and learned about available services. experiences hands-on learning through for the District, 15 are professional, licensed during breeding season. The Wood County operators for water treatment and distribu- vaccinations, and clinic schedules. Community development programming per- 4-H. Hundreds of teen leaders, 275 adult Commissioners awarded funding to the tion and/or wastewater treatment collection. The 11-member Board of Health, in mitted 210 teens from the County to receive volunteers, and fi ve paid 4-H professionals Health Department to provided local addition to appointing the Health Com- lessons in democratic citizenship through supported the 4-H programs. As a result A nine-member board led by Lyle Schulte, residents with mosquito dunks, a larvacide missioner, assumes the responsibility participation in 4-H boards and committees. of 24 hours of intensive training, 43 camp President; Phil Shaffer, Vice President; and that kills the larva of the mosquito that car- of overseeing Department activities to Teens learned the importance of teamwork, counselors designed a camp program that John Current, Secretary-Treasurer oversees ries the West Nile Virus. While West Nile provide for the protection and promotion of communication, and how to conduct effective incorporated the critical elements needed in the District’s operations. Board members Virus infections are a new threat, there are health for those living and visiting Wood meetings as a basis for 4-H programs and a positive 4-H experience. serve six-year terms and are appointed by signifi cantly greater risks to health from County. Alice Davis served as president junior fair. Four overnight camp experiences were three different entities: townships, munici- old foes like fl u and pneumonia that claim palities that are members of the District, and during 2002. The Board generally meets The Wood County Master Gardeners volun- conducted to provide 624 youth opportuni- 3,000 Ohio lives annually. the County Commissioners. at 7:30 p.m. on the second Thursday of teered more than 8,440 hours in horticulture ties to explore the natural surroundings and Periodic shortages of a number of vac- the month in the Board Room at 1840 East service at area locations. Non-commercial learn personal development skills. Camps The Northwestern Water and Sewer cines over the past few years have affected Gypsy Lane Road.• pond owners were educated on usage of their District operates under Section 6119 of the ponds utilizing Integrated Pest Management CONTINUED ON PAGE 8... Ohio Revised Code.•

8 WoodCounty OHIO 2002 Annual Report

INDEPENDENT AGENCIES CONT.

PARK DISTRICT Freyman Roads to the north and south, is and fi shing access was redesigned to better PLANNING COMMISSION nity Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds. George E. Thompson, Chair comprised of approximately 40 acres of natu- accommodate multiple usage of the area. David Miesmer, Director These funds are used to provide infrastruc- C. Robert Boyd, Vice Chair ral meadow area, 80 acres of wet woodland, Boat launching and drop off areas were des- ture improvements, ADA renovations, and Dorothea Barker, Vice Chair and an additional 40 acres that are presently ignated, as well as an area for handicapped The Planning Commission administers policy economic development projects to assist Neil A. Munger, Director/Secretary in production as tilled farmland. The 160- parking. General parking was rerouted to concerning residential, commercial and in- and benefi t low to moderate income (LMI) acre parcel will be the second largest parcel the upper parking lots to alleviate ongoing dustrial subdivisions, zoning regulations, and households for three Cities, four Villages, The Wood County Park District was estab- owned by the Park District, second only to problems of congestion in the small area. land use issues. The staff approves parcel and one Township in Wood County. Projects the 182-acre Bradner Preserve acquired in lished in 1934, under section 1545 of the At the W.W. Knight Preserve, operations splits, assigns rural addresses, and issues that were chosen for 2002 include: water 1999. Future plans for the property are unde- Ohio Revised Code as a separate political staff constructed the fi nal trail included in the fl oodplain development permits. They also and sewer upgrades for the Villages of termined at this time. As has been the past subdivision of the State of Ohio. Principle Park Master Plan. The trail now connects the administer the County’s Community Block Weston and Cygnet, curb and sidewalk practice of the Park District, staff will study funding for the Park District is in the form of Preserve with the Hospice Center, allowing Grant Development (CDBG) Program and the repair and restoration for the City of Perrys- the area and a citizens’ advisory committee a tax levy approved by the voters of Wood easy access for Hospice guests. In addition, Community Housing Improvement Program burg and the Village of Portage, street and will be established to carefully explore future County. The current 10-year levy, which was the trail features a boardwalk that takes (CHIP). The Planning Commission is also parking lot improvements for the Village of land use. passed by Wood County voters in May of visitors through the wet woods, allowing a responsible for revising and promoting ad- West Millgrove and the City of Northwood, 1998, provides income for operations, per- The most exciting addition to the District’s unique educational experience. Construc- herence to the Wood County Comprehensive and ADA renovations for Washington Town- manent improvements and land acquisition. array of activities was the opening of the Ot- tion of the trail was made possible by the Land Use Plan, and assisting townships and ship and the City of Rossford. Additional funding is obtained through direct sego Canoe Livery in May 2002. Adventure generous support of the Country Garden Club villages in their local zoning programs. The Planning Commission is continu- donations, grants and the collection of fees, seekers of all ages came to Otsego Park, of Perrysburg and a Recre ation al Trails Grant ing to assist low and moderate income rentals, and fi nes. where they were transported by bus to Grand awarded through the Ohio Department of During 2002, the Wood County Planning residents in the County through its CHIP Rapids. From there, canoeists journeyed Natural Resources. Commission reviewed 13 requests for rezon- In March of 2002, the Park District began program. Funds from this program are used down the mighty Maumee River and viewed ing totaling 485 acres. Of the 13 requests, discussions with John Sponsler and the fam- The Cedar Creeks Preserve saw comple- to assist low to moderate income residents the River from a different perspective. eight were approved, three were denied ily of David Sponsler to explore the possibility tion of the fi rst phase of the Park Master Plan residing in Wood County’s villages and Despite one of the driest summers in recent and two were modifi ed and conditionally of acquiring property owned by the Sponslers with the construction of a new park entrance unincorporated areas with emergency home memory, the Canoe Livery enjoyed a suc- approved. The Planning Commission also for parkland, preserving it for future genera- and parking facility. The new drive, located repairs, home renovations, and fi rst time cessful fi rst year of operation, and the Park reviewed and approved seven amend- tions. In May, a purchase agreement was on Walbridge Road, takes the park entrance homeowner downpayment assistance. District will again be launching its canoes on ments to township zoning resolutions. The signed allowing the Park District to purchase off the very busy and hazardous Woodville In February 2002, the Planning the Maumee beginning Memorial Weekend. Planning Commission assisted Perrysburg, the new park land. Park District staff Road and allows for much easier access to Commission was designated to be the Montgomery, and Jackson Townships with immediately began writing a grant through Numerous major capital improvements the Preserve. This year trails will be added, County agency responsible for in taking and establishing individual township zoning the newly established Clean Ohio Fund, kept the Operations staff busy throughout the along with park entrance signage, landscap- processing applications for Clean Ohio Fund resolutions and helping prepare these attempting to gain 45 percent of the agreed year. At Otsego Park, several improvements ing and fencing, at which time the new en- Agricultural Easement Purchase Program. resolutions for the November 2002 general purchase price through grant funding. In July, were made in conjunction with the new trance will offi cially be opened for public use. The Agricultural Easement Purchase election. In addition to helping townships the Governor announced the recipients of the Canoe Livery operation. Additional parking Other park improve ments, such as sidewalk Program is one of four programs formed create their own zoning resolutions, the fi rst ever Clean Ohio Funds, and the Wood was added to accom mo date the added con struc tion, new signage, and trail projects out of the Clean Ohio Fund, which was Planning Commission worked with Portage County Park District was awarded funds for park visitors, and the path leading from the were completed at William Henry Harrison passed by Ohio Voters in the 2000 general and Liberty Township to modify and update purchasing the Sponsler property. The new Stone Hall and parking area to the River was Park, the Carter Loomis Farm, Bradner Pre- election. The Easement Purchase Program their current zoning resolutions. property, located just one-quarter mile west widened. A stone path was added for easier serve, and the Slippery Elm Trail.• involves the Ohio Department of Agriculture of the Slippery Elm Trail, between Cygnet and access to the river. The lower parking lot The Planning Commission reviewed and paying farmers and landowners a per acre approved 13 preliminary/fi nal residential price for easements. In 2002, the Planning subdivisions totaling 777.983 acres. One PUBLIC DEFENDER In 2002, the Offi ce of the Public Defender Since 1994, the Public Defender has Commission processed seven applications preliminary/fi nal commercial subdivision represented approximately 3,700 clients. operated a satellite offi ce at the Perrysburg for fi ve landowners, for a total of 438 acres. Kathleen Hamm, Chief Public Defender totaling 20 acres was also reviewed and The Offi ce is appointed by the courts to rep- Municipal Court to accommodate the signifi - The Planning Commission will continue to approved by the Planning Commission. process applications for this program, and Established in 1979, the Public Defender’s resent eligible defendants. To be eligible for cant Northern Wood County caseload. Public Defender representation, individuals In addition to the larger platted subdivi- as more funds become available for the pro- Offi ce provides constitutionally mandated Funds for appointment of counsel are must qualify under the Ohio Public Defender sions, the Planning Commission reviewed gram, the Planning Commission is hopeful legal representation for indigent defendants budgeted by the County and reimbursed by Commission Standards of Indigency, as and processed 193 unplatted land subdivi- that Wood County landowners and farmers in juvenile and criminal cases. Individu- the State at an average of 33 percent. sions totaling 2320.83 acres. Of these 193 will benefi t fi nically from the program, while als are represented in the Bowling Green, listed in the Ohio Admin is tra tive Code sec- subdivisions, 153 were splits off of larger at the same time saving prime farmland for Perrysburg, and Fostoria Municipal Courts, tion 120-1-03. The duties of the Public Defender are tracts of land, 10 were expansions of exist- future generations and preserving Wood Juvenile Court, Common Pleas Court, and all Cases included felonies, misdemeanors, outlined in Section 120 of the Ohio Revised ing parcels of land, and 30 were combina- County’s agricultural heritage. levels of the Appellate Court. delinquencies, status offenses, appeals and Code. A fi ve-member commission, appointed other post-conviction remedies. When a by the Common Pleas Judges and the Board tions of existing tracts of land. The Planning Commission operates under confl ict existed, the case was assigned to of County Commissioners, oversees the Of- During fi scal year 2002, the Planning Chapter 713 of the Ohio Revised Code.• outside counsel. fi ce administration.• Commission received $365,000 in Commu-

SOIL AND WATER PRACTICE # OF CONTRACTS LINEAR FEET ACRES WOOD LANE/WOOD COUNTY In late 2002, the Board approved its CONSERVATION DISTRICT BOARD OF MENTAL RETARDATION involvement with the building of a community Field Windbreaks 32 211,367 74.1 Nicki Kale, District Coordinator AND DEVEL OP MEN TAL center, which includes a gymna si um added Filter Strips in grant area 37 638,000 81 DISABILITIES onto the new community center. While the Our Mission: Dedicated to the care of the Board has looked for more than eight years Filter Strips in William G. Clifford, Superintendent environment through the conservation of for an acceptable building plan, the opportu- targeted townships 117 282,000 358 soil, water and other natural resources; to nity to be part of the joint effort with the City enhance the quality of life for present and Filter Strips outside The Wood County Board of Mental of Bowling Green and the National Guard future generations. targeted areas 122 340,000 297 Retardation and Developmental Disabilities saved money by being part of a facility rather (MR/DD), known throughout the County as than a stand alone facility. The Soil and Water Conservation District Wetlands 6 61.5 Wood Lane, provides community-based sup- (SWCD) includes all the lands within the port for eligible infants, children, and adults Funding for all three projects were part of County. The District, chartered in 1949, is a who wish to live, learn, work and participate the capital construction plan which utilized Buffer Strip Program continued to offer eli- up for a buffer strip, the Wood SWCD and subdivision of the State of Ohio formed by a in the community. monies from federal sources as well as local referendum petition. The major function of gible landowners a $250 per acre, one time the Wood-Lucas Pheasants Forever chapter taxpayer dollars generated from the March the District is to determine natural resource bonus, for any buffer strips located within seeded the fi lter strips at no cost to the As Wood Lane continues to adjust services 2000 levy campaign. needs and implement programs that protect the two watersheds. For projects outside landowner. based upon the changing needs of the of the grant watersheds but in the targeted Wood Lane continues to be aggressive and develop these resources. The district Conservation and agricultural education individuals and families served, staff townships, (the southeast quadrant of the in fi nding ways to maximize the use of operates on money provided by the Wood programs were provided to Wood County and families spent a great deal of 2002 County including Montgomery, Portage, local, state, and federal funds. Individual’s County Commissioners, which is matched by residents through farm tours, camps, fi eld discussing needed changes which include Perry, and Bloom townships) a $100 per acre funding sources have been converted to a the Ohio Department of Natural Resources’ days, outdoor compe ti tions, classroom visits meeting the needs of aging adults who have one-time bonus for new buffer strips was Medicaid-based system called Individual Soil and Water Conservation Commission. and scholarship opportunities. developmental disabilities, individuals with Option Waivers. This change has resulted The SWCD operates under Chapter 1515 of offered. Continued sign up in the Packer and signifi cant and/or unique medical needs, The District answered landowners’ in additional match monies available to the Ohio Revised Code. Policies are set by Toussaint watersheds, utilizing funding from and individuals with signifi cant physical request for assistance on over 51 miles help serve the needs of individuals on the a fi ve-member board of supervisors who are an Ohio EPA 319 Non-Point Source grant, challenges. proved the success of this initiative. The of Wood County ditches on private group residential waiting list. elected for a three-year term by residents of The Board approved needed renovations program is admin is tered through the District bottom cleanout projects. In addition the the district. at Wood Lane Industries, which include The Board provided a letter of support offi ce with funding of $20,000 provided by following table identifi es additional conser- additional accessible restrooms, a larger as well as land for a HUD approved building Available for the third consecutive year, the the Wood County Commissioners. As an vation practices established. • lunchroom, a therapy room, and redesigned project for Wood Lane Resi den tial Properties, Wood Soil and Water Conservation District additional incentive for landowners to sign offi ce space. Inc. The Board was notifi ed in October 2002 that funding had been approved for the con- In the fall of 2002, Wood Lane’s early struction of two, four-bedroom homes for se- intervention program moved to a new home nior citizens with developmental disabilities. at the Jordon Center on the Bowling VETERANS ASSISTANCE CENTER These homes, slated to be built in 2003, will Green State University campus. Infants Mary E. Hanna, Executive Director STATISTICS FOR 2002 assist in meeting the unmet need to people and children under the age of three with a Memorial Day Appropriations $6,155 with mental retardation who are aging. Veterans Residing developmental disability or delay will now Mission Statement — The Wood County in Wood County 10,674 Flags and Grave receive support and services with typically The Board of MR/DD operates under Sec- Veterans Assistance Center advises and Markers Distributed 7,435 developing children at the Jordan Center. tion 5126 of the Ohio Revised Code. assists persons in the Armed Forces of the Total Client Contacts: 7,012 • United States, veterans, and their families (includes at offi ce and telephone Emergency Financial in obtaining rights and benefi ts under any interviews, claim process ing, fi nancial Assistance $59,064.80 OSU EXTENSION CONT FROM PG 7... participate in the “Peer Power” program. law of the United States. We advocate for assistance inves ti ga tions, and case Federal VA Claims/ included NW Ohio Conservation Camp, During the three month program, youth the protection of these benefi ts and rights. management) Documents Processed 10,760 the largest of its kind in the nation, which gained skills needed in making healthy The goal at the Veterans Assistance Center Veterans Transported to Total Federal Dollars hosted 225 youth from 12 counties, includ- potentially life changing decisions. is to provide compassionate, high quality ing 25 youth and 24 counselors from Wood Medical facilities 266 Brought into County $5,642,436 During the year, six master clothing services to Wood County veterans and their County. families. The staff strives to accomplish Newsletters Distributed 2,400 Return per County Dollar $23.55 volunteers became certifi ed to teach youth this by making the clients, rather than the The 4-H In-School Enrichment enroll- clothing construction techniques, selec- benefi t program, the central focus. The ment served 2,852 projects in 70 class- tion, and care. The Women in Agricuture staff seeks opportunities to increase ser- rooms. With OSU Extension resources and program, which provided information on from last year’s disbursements. The number million benefi ted those veterans who were vice delivery effectiveness by implementing training, teachers conducted programs in building stronger family relationships and of claims continued to rise with an aging directly receiving these funds. In addition, partnerships with other public and private chick embryology, bubbleology, pioneer life improving farm management techniques, veteran population resulting in increased use the economy benefi ted because these federal agencies. history, food and nutrition, and the dairy attracted 165 women. Sun safety programs of medical and nursing home benefi ts. funds increased the purchasing power of sciences. were also conducted. veterans and their families. Due to the slow-down of the economy For every dollar spent by the County on The Wood County Family and Children The Extension Offi ce is a cooperative during the year, County veterans reached veteran assistance in 2002, the Veterans The Veterans Service Commission is out- First Wellness Block Grant awarded $5,400 effort of the Ohio State University, the out for $59,064.80 in emergency fi nancial Assistance Center brought $23.55 in lined in Ohio Revised Code 5901.01 et seq.• for pregnancy prevention. These funds Wood County Commissioners, and the US assistance through the Center, up $8,063.28 federal money into the County. This $5.6 allowed 50 youth and teen mentors to Department of Agriculture.•