Lake County · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Lake County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Flock License-Plate Cameras
A resident wanted to know whether commissioners will discuss the pros and cons of Flock cameras. Commissioners said the cameras are installed by cities, villages and townships, not the county, and defended them as a targeted law-enforcement tool rather than mass surveillance.
Expedited annexation petition — 27.91 acres in Painesville Township
An expedited type 2 annexation petition was filed for 27.91 acres in Painesville Township to join the City of Painesville. It's for the board's acknowledgement only — no action needed yet.
World Suicide Prevention Day recognition
The board proclaimed September 10 as World Suicide Prevention Day, spotlighting mental-health resources and the nonprofits that provide them.
Elder Abuse Awareness and Prevention
Lake County APS got more than 1,000 calls about elder abuse, neglect or exploitation last year and investigated every one. The board proclaimed June 15 as World Elder Abuse Awareness Day and is promoting a June 11 awareness walk and the 24/7 hotline (440-350-4000, option 1).
Severe Weather Warning
Severe weather alerts, including potential tornadoes, are active right now across Lake County cities like Mentor and Willoughby. You need to check local warnings immediately to keep yourself and your property safe.
Deer Culling Program
Lake County is looking into starting a deer culling program to get the local wildlife population under control. If you live around here, keep an eye out for upcoming city council meetings where they'll figure out how to keep neighborhoods safe.
Landfill methane-to-energy project
The landfill's methane gas currently just gets flared off. The county shortlisted companies to submit proposals for turning that gas into usable energy.
Lawsuit Against City
A local family is suing Eastlake after their kid got sick from dangerously high chlorine levels at a public splash pad. It's a huge wake-up call about how city pools and splash pads are being monitored.
Arrest of local journalist and blogger
Commissioner Plecnik publicly objected to the arrest of a journalist and blogger in Lake County court, saying prosecuting political opponents is contrary to American ideals; Commissioner Beverage said the courts will decide whether a private message constituted harassment.
Council on Aging settlement
The county settled with the Council on Aging over a $466,000 scam last summer. The full loss was recovered through insurance and bank efforts, and no senior services were interrupted. A Concord Township resident asked for details but officials cited the pending criminal investigation.
law enforcement ICE agreement
Lake County's new partnership between the Sheriff's office and ICE has local immigrant communities worried. Critics point out that these groups are actually major drivers of our local economy and population growth.
Rodent Infestation
Willowick and Eastlake are stepping up to tackle nasty neighborhood rat problems. Local health departments are launching a crackdown to get the infestation under control.
Property Fraud Alert
Lake County is rolling out a free property fraud alert system to help you keep tabs on your home title and stop scammers in their tracks. It's a simple, quick way to get a heads-up if anyone messes with your property records.
Recycling Program
Lake County is rolling out a brand new recycling drop-off spot at the landfill, making it way easier to ditch your household waste responsibly. Instead of driving all over, locals now have a convenient way to keep junk out of the regular trash.