County, park district push back after Ohio EPA flags Wolf Creek Greenway design

Medina County commissioners and staff discussed an Ohio EPA review that raised concerns about constructing an asphalt access pathway as part of the Wolf Creek Greenway project and recommended replacing an aging 36-inch concrete sewer main.

The county received a letter from the Medina County Park District describing EPA objections to impervious pavement and wetlands impacts on the project site. Jeremy Cinco, sanitary engineer, said EPA staff favored replacing the sewer main because the 50-year-old concrete line is susceptible to hydrogen sulfide damage and deterioration. "The EPA's recommendation was for us to replace that," Cinco said, while stressing that county crews need access for maintenance.

Commissioners and park staff expressed frustration with the EPA guidance. One commissioner summarized their read of the EPA response as suggesting the county "let sewage leak into the waterway" and then fix it, describing that approach as unacceptable. County officials said the project is ARPA-funded and designed to minimize tree removal and impacts; staff asked the county administrator’s office to prepare a strongly worded support letter on behalf of the board to Ohio EPA and to coordinate with state legislative offices.

Why it matters: The Wolf Creek Greenway project combines public recreational access with necessary utility access and maintenance. EPA concerns about wetland coverage and impervious surfaces could delay construction or require design changes and additional capital for sewer replacement.

What’s next: The board directed staff to prepare a letter supporting the park district’s position and to have county staff (including the sanitary engineer) available to answer follow-up questions from Ohio EPA and legislators. The county will pursue clarifying discussions with Ohio EPA and notify state representatives as appropriate.