Lima cracks down on nuisance vehicles, parking

News Top Stories Facebook X Pinterest WhatsApp LIMA — Nuisance vehicle cases will now be handled more than three times as fast with double the notification following one of Lima council’s ordinances approved Monday. Under the new legislation, property and vehicle owners who receive a notice of violation for inoperable, unlicensed or improperly stored vehicles will have three days to comply instead of 10. If the issue is not corrected within that timeframe, the city may proceed with removal, impoundment or other enforcement action. In addition to letters from code enforcement, violators will now receive neon stickers on a vehicle detailing the date and type of violation, according to Carmillia Zion, director of housing and neighborhoods. Below are several common applicable violation examples, which include that of watercraft: • Cars or trucks missing tires, wheels, doors or other essential components • Improperly licensed vehicles parked or stored outdoors on residential property • Vehicles parked on grass, vacant lots where such storage is prohibited or outside of designated driveways and approved parking areas • Recreational vehicles stored in violation of residential parking requirements Residents can report such vehicle violations to code enforcement by calling 419-221-5146. Zion said her team has seen “50-plus” nuisance vehicles in Lima as of late, including campers parked in “back alleys” or on “areas that aren’t hard surfaces.” The biggest danger she noted, however, was in the vehicles that can’t even be driven. “It’s a safety issue because they sit around, they’re inoperable, people can get inside of them, things of that nature,” Zion said. “So, we’re just happy. I’m happy. We’re happy that we all finally found someone.” Zion said the city was out to bid for “three years” before enlisting Miller Auto Inc. for towing of nuisance vehicles. Property and vehicle owners have the right to appeal a violation to the Board of Building Appeals within three business days, according to a press release from the city. Appeals require a $100 cash bond, with procedures in place for its return or application, and do not automatically delay enforcement action. Councilor Derry Glenn, of the Sixth Ward, expressed particular appreciation for the ordinance on behalf of his constituents. “I know a lot of folks in my ward are looking forward to this, and you can call my number because I’ll be out tomorrow early in the morning. I got six houses to hit, and I’ll be out in the morning taking care of it,” Glenn said. “This is how we try to improve our neighborhood. If you guys go see other cities, smaller cities like Lima, they’re not doing what we’re doing.” Other business In the rest of its meeting, council also celebrated Elm Street Church of the Nazarene for its 100th anniversary. Council also recognized Corey Foster for his 32 years of service with the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction, including in leadership positions at the Allen-Oakwood Correctional Institution. IN OTHER ACTION In the rest of its meeting, council approved the following ordinances: • An ordinance authorizing the mayor to enter into contract with OHM Advisors for improvements to Town Square Park. The project will evaluate items such as replacement of the existing gazebo, fountain improvements, lighting upgrades, improved accessibility and other park enhancements. The maximum project cost is $150,000. • An ordinance providing for the issuance and sale of $25,000 of notes to cover certain costs associated with the 2026 Combined Sidewalk Project, which addresses sidewalks needing reconstruction on a rotating basis throughout the city while accounting for complaints filed by residents. The notes cover the portion of city sidewalk repair costs assessed to homeowners and allow for their assessment, as well as collection of those owners’ payments with interest, according to city auditor Randy Bartels. • An ordinance authorizing the mayor to enter into contract with Miller Auto Inc. for medium and heavy-duty truck maintenance. • An ordinance authorizing the mayor to enter into contract with Rush Truck Center for medium heavy-duty truck maintenance. • An ordinance authorizing the mayor to enter into contract with Area Energy and Electric Inc. for electrical repair and new construction services. • An ordinance authorizing the mayor to accept an anonymous donation for the purchase and installation of bleachers at Faurot Park Diamond #2. • An ordinance authorizing the mayor to enter into contract with Modo Media LLC for full-service broadcasting production. • An ordinance amending the 2026 annual budget. Reach Peter Bonasso at 567-242-0399. Featured Local Savings