Mayor outlines compliance roadmap for event venues, emphasizing safety and permits

Mayor Smith told Lima City Council the administration has prepared a timeline and a coordinated approach to address the use of buildings as event venues, emphasizing public safety and a clear path to compliance for property owners.

"A certificate of occupancy does not also mean that you can sell food or alcohol in those premises," the mayor said, noting that separate reviews and permits are required from Allen County Public Health and Ohio liquor authorities. She described plain-language checklists, one-on-one technical assistance and public information sessions that will be offered to landlords and event promoters.

Mayor Smith also acknowledged concerns that enforcement actions had been disproportionately directed at minority-owned businesses and said the city will respond to that concern and explain the bases for enforcement decisions, which she described as grounded in property use, documented conditions and applicable law rather than owner identity. She thanked multiple city departments for coordinating on the issue and said additional public outreach sessions will be scheduled.

Council members thanked the mayor for the clarity and for steps to improve outreach and consistency. No ordinance or new enforcement power was adopted at the meeting; the city announced educational and administrative steps to improve compliance and transparency.