Lucas County commissioners started off the new year with two new appointments to county positions before and during its first meeting of 2024 on Monday.
Anita Lopez was sworn in at One Government Center 30 minutes before her first meeting as a Lucas County commissioner. Emmanuel Yakumithis, the auditor’s chief of staff, was sworn in as acting county auditor in place of Ms. Lopez, who had held the office since March, 2006.
Mr. Yakumithis will act as auditor until the Lucas County Democratic Central Committee appoints a new one, the county commissioners’ office said.
Ms. Lopez was joined by her son, mother, and other family members as she took her oath of office and said she was excited to “get to work” as a commissioner.
“I’m ready to hit the ground running,” Ms. Lopez said. “I’ve already reviewed the agenda [for Monday’s meeting] last night and had a briefing with the county administrator. I’m ready to vote on items today. I already asked my questions, so they’re getting used to me.”
She said her No. 1 goal as a Lucas County commissioner and Lucas County Workforce Development Board member is job retention, job expansion, and luring more businesses into Lucas County.
“I will continue to work hard. ... I won’t let you down,” Ms. Lopez promised.
The commissioners also announced that their meetings will be livestreamed, in addition to its in-person meetings, beginning Jan. 16.
Livestreams, as well as meeting agendas and agenda packets, can be found at https://lucascooh.portal.civicclerk.com/ .
The president of the county commissioners, Pete Gerken, was re-elected by fellow commissioners Lisa Sobecki and Ms. Lopez.
“Even though we’ve spent the last 365 days together, and I’ve served with you in this capacity, we go way back,” Ms. Sobecki said. “I appreciate your work.”
The commissioners also approved a partnership with High Bridge Consulting of Columbus to perform advocacy services, consulting, and government affairs services on behalf of the county.
High Bridge will represent the county in state government and keep the county informed on government discussions and decisions in Columbus, said Mike Dittoe, a partner at High Bridge Consulting.
“As you know, the state has a capital budget, and a strategic community project fund is going to be doling out money across the next six months or so,” Mr. Dittoe said.
First Published January 8, 2024, 10:25 p.m.
