Portage County • April 23, 2025
Good morning, Portage County. The landscape of local services is shifting as Hattie Larlham prepares to relocate its adult disability programs from Bedford Heights to a newly leased space in Solon on August 1. This strategic move represents a significant operational change for the Mantua-based nonprofit, which has built its reputation on creating meaningful opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities throughout Northeast Ohio.
Meanwhile, Ravenna has plenty to celebrate according to Mayor Frank Seman's State of the City address, with the general fund reaching a record $13.2 million and infrastructure improvements transforming the community. And as the Cuyahoga Valley National Park marks its 50th anniversary, it's also bidding farewell to a defining leaderβDeb Yandala steps down as Conservancy CEO this June after shepherding transformative projects like the Boston Mills Visitor Center and the purchase of Brandywine Golf Course during her remarkable tenure.
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βΏ Nonprofit relocates disability services to new Solon location. Hattie Larlham, which provides programs for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, will move its adult day services from Bedford Heights to Solon on August 1. The Mantua-based organization has leased new space in Solon while shuttering its Bedford Heights location. This move represents a significant operational change for the nonprofit, which focuses on creating opportunities and support for individuals with disabilities throughout Northeast Ohio.
ποΈ Ravenna mayor celebrates financial turnaround in State of the City address. Frank Seman highlighted the city's economic recovery, noting the general fund reached an all-time high of $13.2 million and the bond rating improved to A1. The city completed significant infrastructure projects including Main Street paving and demolition of the old Oak Rubber property, while also strengthening police and fire department staffing. LG Chem's manufacturing facility opened after delays, marking significant economic growth for the area. Seman, a self-described "Blue Dog Democrat," also urged support for the upcoming school levy, warning of state oversight if it fails for a fifth time.
π³ Deb Yandala steps down after shaping Cuyahoga Valley National Park's legacy. As CEO of the Conservancy for nearly half of the park's 50-year existence, Yandala has overseen major projects including the purchase of Brandywine Golf Course and completion of Boston Mills Visitor Center. She's especially proud of her work educating the next generation of park stewards through the Cuyahoga Valley Environmental Education Center. Despite recent challenges with federal budget cuts that temporarily eliminated four positions, Yandala remains optimistic about the park's future as she prepares to retire in June. She plans to begin part-time work with the National Park Foundation while hoping her successor maintains the commitment to keeping the park accessible to all.
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