During a recent government meeting, Trumbull County officials discussed significant updates regarding the county's morgue operations and potential revenue-generating opportunities through forensic services. The transition to a new morgue facility is set for the second week of September, coinciding with the planned purchase of an X-ray machine, which officials believe will save the county money in the long run. The estimated payoff for the equipment is approximately 3.5 years, and moving forward with the purchase sooner rather than later is seen as beneficial.

The conversation also touched on the potential for the county to provide autopsy services to neighboring counties, particularly those lacking their own forensic pathologists. Officials expressed interest in exploring partnerships with counties like Mahoning, which have approached Trumbull for collaboration. However, concerns were raised about the volume of cases and the need to ensure that local residents are prioritized for services.

The county's forensic pathologist is viewed as a valuable asset, and officials are considering how to structure a revenue-sharing model that would allow Trumbull to capture business from surrounding areas. The aim is to provide timely autopsy services, which currently take significantly longer when outsourced to larger counties. Trumbull's turnaround time for signing death certificates is about four weeks, compared to four months elsewhere, making it an attractive option for neighboring jurisdictions.

In addition to morgue operations, the meeting addressed financial matters, including various appropriations and transfers related to county services. The Trumbull County Tourism Bureau reported a slight decline in lodging tax revenue but highlighted upcoming events, such as the Route 7 yard sale, which is expected to draw significant traffic and visitors to the area.

Overall, the discussions reflect a proactive approach by Trumbull County officials to enhance local services while exploring new revenue streams, particularly in the realm of forensic pathology. The meeting concluded with plans to further investigate the feasibility of these initiatives in the coming weeks.