Commissioners vote to join Warren Township appeal over Levittsburg dam removal after public outcry

After extensive public comment from Warren Township residents and trustees objecting to Metroparks’ dam‑removal project, the Trumbull County Board of Commissioners voted unanimously to continue the county’s legal appeal and to join Warren Township in the appeal against the Trumbull County Metroparks Board regarding removal of the Levittsburg dam.

Public commenters raised environmental and infrastructure concerns. Deb Roth, Warren Township resident and president of Our Lives Count, said studies and contractor correspondence warned of bank instability, road collapse risks and that disturbing contaminated sediment could worsen conditions in the floodplain. Trustee K. Anderson and others described recent tree removal and machinery activity that they said contradicted contract terms meant to delay work until June 1; they reported public alarm and said Warren Township had filed an appeal with a 1:00 p.m. appellate hearing.

Other residents cited potential contamination in river sediment, including a referenced Ohio EPA study and earlier newspaper and archival material. Faye Smith, a Levittsburg resident, urged air and water testing; Ken Messler of the Levittsburg Dam Committee expressed concern that removing the dam would mobilize contaminated sediments downstream.

Commissioner debate reflected differing views on continued county expenditure. Some commissioners expressed reluctance to spend more taxpayer funds but ultimately supported continuing the appeal. Commissioners cited prior county expenditures on the matter, differing legal opinions and the need to give Warren Township “their day in court.” The board entered executive session under Ohio Revised Code section 121.22(G)(3) to consult with legal counsel and then reconvened to vote to continue the appeal.

The formal motion after reconvening directed county counsel (identified in the record as Mr. Wilson) to continue the appeal and to join Warren Township; the motion passed on a recorded vote: Commissioner Malloy — yes; Commissioner Bernard — yes; President Rick Hernandez — yes.

Ending: The board’s decision keeps the county in the legal process opposing Metroparks’ dam removal. Commissioners and township officials said next steps include counsel attending the appellate proceeding and potential additional legal work; several public commenters urged further environmental testing and exploration of lower‑cost alternatives to complete dam removal.