The commissioners approved an interim memorandum of understanding to coordinate workforce development among the county, the Lorain County Workforce Development Board and partners including Ohio Means Jobs, job and family services, community action, LCC Aspire and others. The MOU covers program years and funding levels: $294,966.50 for program year 2025 and $302,950.16 for program year 2026, to be paid from adult/dislocated youth funds and CCMEP funds, according to the agenda summary.

David Blevins, the workforce director, told the board the partners aim to reduce duplicated services and better align training with employer needs. He described a recent regional hiring event that drew about 2,000 people and roughly 175 employers, and said partners will focus on stackable credentials and targeted occupations based on demand. "So rather than duplicating, we partner together," Blevins said, citing the Perkins Act as a framework for stronger local control and measurable outcomes.

Blevins also described technology upgrades in his office (moving from paper to electronic files) and said the department is improving outreach via text and mobile-friendly forms to reach youth. Commissioners commended the director’s work and approved the MOU.