Business owners and volunteers urge Lorain to fund Main Street Lorraine with $50,000 in city budget

A coalition of business owners and volunteers urged Lorain City Council to include $50,000 in the 2025 city budget to support Main Street Lorraine’s downtown revitalization work.

Speakers during the public-comment period described the nonprofit’s recent achievements and said city funding would leverage volunteer time and private investment. Max Schafer, speaking for Main Street Lorraine, listed accomplishments: more than 100 events over five years, removal of more than 2,400 pounds of debris, partnerships with several regional organizations, and nearly $25,000 invested in marketing. Schafer asked council to continue an annual $50,000 appropriation.

Other speakers who said they support the request included Kelsey Jones, who described volunteer-led efforts to catalogue vacant buildings and assist property owners applying for minor storefront renovation funds; Samantha Flores, Main Street Lorraine’s board president, who said the organization helps activate public spaces and attract businesses; Tony Giardini, a long-time Broadway business owner who highlighted volunteer value; and Ryan Aroney of United Way, who argued Main Street helps make downtown inviting for events and donors.

No formal vote on the appropriation occurred at this meeting. Council members and the administration acknowledged receipt of the request and discussions about the proposed budget are continuing; council has referred the citywide appropriation ordinance to a third reading for further review.

Speakers identified expected near-term uses for city support including a small-business enhancement grant, a downtown beautification ambassador, snow-removal coordination for Broadway, and marketing and beautification projects.