The Lorain City Council approved four ordinances on March 11, 2024, enabling the city to accept state-funded traffic safety grants aimed at enhancing local traffic enforcement. The total funding exceeds $235,000 and is provided by the Ohio Department of Public Safety’s Traffic Safety Office.
These grants are designed to bolster public safety measures in Lorain through improved coordination between the Lorain Police Department and state safety initiatives. They specifically target issues such as speeding, seatbelt compliance, and impaired driving.
Under the first two ordinances, the council accepted a grant of $83,053.48 for the Dedicated Traffic Enforcement Program, along with a grant of $56,611.96 for the Impaired Driving Enforcement Program and the Selective Traffic Enforcement Program. These programs focus on reducing traffic-related fatal crashes by increasing enforcement efforts related to speeding, seatbelt adherence, and driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
In addition, the council approved an ordinance for a grant of $96,000 to fund a dedicated liaison position between the Lorain Police Department and the Ohio Traffic Safety Office. This liaison will enhance collaboration on traffic safety initiatives.
The fourth ordinance grants authority to Rey Carrion, the county’s Safety/Service Director, to enter into an agreement with Mark Fetheroff, an independent contractor affiliated with the Ohio Traffic Safety Office. Fetheroff will serve as the liaison, facilitating communication and partnership between local and state safety programs.
During the council meeting, Councilman Tony Dimacchia praised the police department’s initiative in securing these grants. “Every one of these helps us in some major capacity at some point in time,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of the funding for community safety.
These grants represent a significant investment in Lorain’s commitment to enhancing traffic safety and reducing accidents on local roads. The collaboration with state agencies aims to create a safer environment for all residents and visitors.
