Eaton Township resident urges Lorain County to include local-hire provisions in jail construction plan

Mike Sherman of Eaton Township spoke during the second public hearing July 17, supporting the county's efforts to address jail and detention facility needs but urging the inclusion of local-hire provisions in any construction contracts. "If you wish support, you need to consider that the people paying the tax wish also to build the facility," Sherman said, adding that local tax dollars "turn over seven times."

Sherman recommended specific tools the county could use, saying: "I would encourage your strong consideration for utilization of local workforce participation, project labor agreement or a community workforce benefits agreement on the new construction." He cited the Murray Ridge relocation, Lorain High School project, and Elyria central maintenance garage as examples where local bidder participation was strong and projects stayed on time and under budget. The county did not record any opposing public comments at the July 17 hearings.