Perrysburg administration proposes industrial growth to support safety services expansion

During a recent meeting of the Perrysburg Finance Committee, city officials highlighted the pressing need for enhanced safety services and a strategic shift in economic development to accommodate the community's rapid growth.

Perrysburg has seen its population double since 1990, rising from 12,551 to 25,033, while the city’s area has expanded by nearly 250%. This growth has increased the demand for essential services, particularly in public safety. The fire division has grown from a predominantly volunteer force to 38 full-time firefighters, and the police department has expanded from 19 to 42 sworn officers. The 2025 budget reflects this commitment to safety, allocating approximately $17.7 million, or 54% of the general fund, to the safety department.

City officials noted the rising costs associated with maintaining high-quality safety services. For instance, the cost of a medic unit has surged from $205,000 in 2014 to $386,000 in 2023. Additionally, a recent authorization for a new fire engine will cost nearly $2 million, and a body camera system for the police division has been approved at $560,000. Despite these escalating expenses, the city has managed to maintain its long-standing income tax rate of 1.5%, unchanged since 1971.

As Perrysburg continues to grow, officials emphasized the importance of ensuring that response times for emergency services remain competitive. They acknowledged that the fire division is nearing capacity and will require further staffing increases to meet community needs effectively.

In light of these challenges, the city is also reassessing its approach to economic development. There is a growing sentiment among residents that the city is allowing too much residential growth. To address this, officials propose a more balanced strategy that focuses on attracting industrial and manufacturing businesses, which could alleviate some of the pressures on safety services compared to residential developments.

The committee's discussions underscore a critical juncture for Perrysburg as it navigates the complexities of growth while striving to maintain the quality of life for its residents. The city aims to ensure that infrastructure and resources are in place to support both its expanding population and its economic future.