Geauga County residents can continue to rely on propane buses for transportation following an agreement for Laketran to take over Geauga Transit operations last year.
Geauga County residents can continue to rely on propane buses for transportation following an agreement for Laketran to take over Geauga Transit operations last year.
JoAnna Santilli, director of Geauga Transit, and Ben Capelle, CEO of Laketran — Lake County’s public transportation operation — spoke at the Geauga County Township Association quarterly meeting July 10.
They explained to a crowd of about 100 dining at the Huntsburg Township Community Center how creating the partnership updated transportation options for residents in both counties.
“Laketran’s objective is to operate Geauga Transit as Geauga Transit. It’s a very unique partnership,” Capelle said. “We work very closely with the (Geauga) County Commissioners. We have another four years on our agreement.”
Santilli noted grants were awarded to support three propane buses coming to Geauga County and Geauga Transit has a workforce grant for the next three years.
“Geauga Transit is for everybody in Geauga County,” she said.
Christine Lakomiak, executive director of the Geauga County Board of Mental Health and Recovery Services, delivered the keynote speech, relating some of her experiences in her first year and a half as director.
She spoke about board decisions on programs such as crisis intervention training and talked about addressing compliance issues within the department and the importance of the board being familiar with Ohio Revised Code guidelines that apply to its operation.
Geauga County Veterans Services Director Michelle Pemberton and Administrative Assistant Stacy Malone also noted area veterans qualify for assistance from their office, which provides temporary financial services, transportation to and from medical facilities and indigent burials, among other support.
Chardon Township Trustee Mike Brown delivered a heartfelt memorial for late township Trustee Chuck Strazinsky, describing him as being “honest and forthright — perfect qualities for a township trustee.”
Russell Township Trustee Matt Rambo updated attendees on a variety of legislation, noting preservation committees can be established by township authority regarding the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
He also noted individuals who refuse to pay for zoning permits and services may now face civil charges.
Rambo suggested going to the GCTA website and using the bill tracker to follow legislative bills, including proposed House Bill 344, which would eliminate township authority to ask for replacement levies.
