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Mayor Brubaker says Elyria discussed EPA consent decree, Norfolk Southern bridges and affordable housing with new senator
Summary
Mayor Brubaker told the council that meetings in Washington with Senator Marino and other mayors focused on the EPA consent decree, deteriorating Norfolk Southern bridges through Elyria and the city’s shortage of affordable housing.
Mayor Brubaker reported to Elyria City Council that he and other Ohio mayors met with Senator Frank Marino’s office during a trip to Washington, D.C., and raised three main issues: the financial strain of complying with an EPA consent decree, dilapidated Norfolk Southern bridges that pass through the city, and the local shortage of affordable housing. He also updated the council on a local redevelopment project at the Jefferson Junior High site that has received funding and a $250,000 grant from the city, and on the opening of a district office for Senator Marino in Elyria.
Why it matters: The items affect infrastructure, transportation safety and housing availability in Elyria. State or federal support, negotiations with a private railroad company, or grant funding could materially affect project timing and cost for the city and its residents.
What the mayor said: Mayor Brubaker said the EPA consent decree requires system repairs and new lines that represent “a huge financial burden to our residents, as well as our water” and that he spoke to Senator Marino about potential federal assistance, including earmarks. He said Norfolk Southern bridges running through the center of town are dilapidated and that Marino offered to follow up on connections to the railroad. He told the council the topic of affordable housing — particularly the lack of mid-market affordable units — was discussed with the senator and other mayors.
Jefferson Junior High site: Brubaker said the Jefferson Junior High redevelopment team has received funding and is preparing plans; the city provided a $250,000 grant but that money cannot be used until the existing building is demolished. He said the expectation is that ground activity could begin by late spring, and that demolition and construction can proceed simultaneously depending on project sequencing.
Other notes: Brubaker said Senator Marino is opening an Elyria office and that Congressman Lotta also has an office in Elyria. Councilwoman Sewerka was specifically named by the mayor as having emphasized the bridge issue during discussions.
What the transcript does not show: The mayor’s remarks did not specify specific federal funding amounts, deadlines for decisions, or any formal commitments from Senator Marino’s office; Marino’s staff reportedly asked for follow-up information.
