Sheriff Defends Township Payment Terms

Sheriff Mike Navarre told Lucas County commissioners that two townships will pay nearly $3.3 million in 2027 for extra police services.

Monclova and Springfield townships pay for these additional patrols on top of the baseline emergency response required by Ohio law.

Commissioners and their staff questioned whether that amount covers the full cost of the service.

They argue the county general fund may need to absorb the difference.

This is a concern because the overall county budget is tight.

Navarre said the new contract structure for 2027 adequately covers the added service beyond statutory obligations.

He noted the contracts reimburse the county for personnel costs, including estimated 2027 wages.

Commissioner Anita Lopez suggested the department negotiate for more revenue to increase its budget.

The sheriff presented this plan after commissioners asked every department to cut spending by 13 percent.

Despite eliminating 20 positions, the sheriff's budget rose 8.5 percent.

Wage increases approved last year contributed to that rise.

The county must submit its final budget by the end of the year.