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CORTLAND -- The city announced Thursday that it has secured $2.15 million in funding for the construction of its planned Safety Service Complex.
Earlier this month, Ohio's state congress held hearings before voting on its One-Time Community Investment Fund bill, which totals $700 million. Cortland will receive the $2.15 as a cut of the total $8.35 million Trumbull County is receiving.
"This new facility promises to enhance public safety operations significantly and cater to the evolving needs of our community," a news release from the City of Cortland states.
"The funding allocation was approved with overwhelming support, thanks to dedicated efforts of several key legislators. Sen. Sandra O'Brien, Sen. (Matt) Dolan, and Representative (Nick) Santucci played pivotal roles in advocating for Cortland's infrastructure development.
"Their commitment to improving public safety and investing in community resources has been crucial in securing this funding."
The city began exploring its options for architectural assistance with designing the complex at 400 N. High St. in April. A city council work session took place April 22 for three prospective architectural firms to present their professional design services. Firms in attendance included Brandstetter Carroll, Inc. and D.S. Architecture, both of Cleveland, and Strollo Architects, Inc. of Youngstown.
"We're looking to them to help us make the most financially responsible decision we can," Mayor Deidre Petrosky said following the work session. "And we're also waiting on different grants and funding strategies that we've applied for, so there's still a lot of balls in the air."
Councilman Kevin Piros said the selected firm would not be announced until a July city council meeting. He mentioned, however, "Until we get it as an announcement on our agenda, which may be the first one in July because it's not on the one for next Monday, then we'll be able to announce who that firm is."
Once the selected firm submits a proposal, the city can either reject it, review other candidate firms or negotiate further. The selected firm will then submit drawings and a cost estimate for the building.
The release continued, "In addition, the City of Cortland received $330,350.00 for the treatment of hydrilla at Mosquito Creek Lake State Park. This funding for treatment will safeguard Warren City's drinking water."
Petrosky thanked the U.S. Army Corp. of Engineers, Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Trumbull County commissioners, and Trumbull Tourism Bureau for their collaborative work in ensuring that all funding was secured.
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