Allen County commissioners held a ribbon-cutting ceremony Monday to mark the official opening of the Allen County Government Center at 237 N. Main St. in Lima. Ohio House Speaker Matt Huffman, state Sen. Susan Manchester and Lima city officials attended. Huffman presented a resolution from Manchester and himself that he said he hoped would be displayed in the building.
Commissioner Cory Noonan said the $17 million project came in under budget, with most funding from the American Rescue Plan Act. The center now houses the county Veterans Service Commission, recorder, auditor, building and grounds, treasurer, GIS and domestic relations court offices. Those offices moved from the courthouse at 301 N. Main St. Commissioner Beth Seibert said the courthouse is expected to have major renovations completed and hold all Allen County courts by 2031.
Commissioner Brian Winegardner said planning began with Noonan in 2018, and encountered development delays. The site formerly held the Hofeller, Hiatt and Clark men's clothing store for 125 years, and he credited John Heaphy and county Auditor Rachel Gilroy with roles in acquiring and funding demolition of the site.
Tamara Wilson, executive director of the veterans service commission, said the new office gives Dayton Vet Center representatives space to meet clients and allows veterans to make appeals virtually. She also said the commission can consider expansion that was not possible at the courthouse.