Mayor reflects on past year

NORWALK — Norwalk Mayor Dave Light fondly recalled the past year while also planning for a successful 2025. When asked what his proudest accomplishments were in 2024, Light said one of the biggest successes was completing the city's 10-year comprehensive plan. The original plan was conceived in 2006 and laid a strong foundation for the city's growth and development. "In 2023, the process to update the original plan began," Light said. "It was a year-long process involving a group of residents, business owners and stakeholders. This document does not represent only one person's vision but that of the entire community." He explained. "It's a valuable document that identifies our needs and defines our future all while maintaining our rich culture," the mayor continued. "I give much-appreciated credit to the hard work and dedication of so many community members to see this process through." Approved by city council at a recent public meeting, anyone who wants to review it can do so at the city's website, norwalkoh.com. Light said another accomplishment was working together with department heads and the finance department to have the first balanced budget in more than 40 years. "It's a challenge to maintain the quality of life in Norwalk (and) prepare for future growth all while keeping taxes at 1.5%," he said. Light said there are a lot of things residents can look forward to in 2025. "One of the most noticeable improvements will be the urban paving project," Light said. That will involve repaving the U.S. 250 corridor all the way through Norwalk and repaving Ohio 61 all the way through Norwalk. "These are the most heavily traveled streets in town with the most potholes," Light said. Additionally, paving will take place on local streets as well. Local residents can also look forward to a free 2025 Summer Concert Series on Wednesday evenings from June to September at the city's new amphitheater at Veteran's Memorial Lake Park. The assembly of the new amphitheater was completed in 2024. A grand opening celebration with concerts was held last October. "Bands are already being scheduled and they are excited to perform here," Light said. "This will also increase use of our Veteran's Memorial Lake Park." Other top priorities for 2025 include: • Getting the police department up to full staff; Police Chief Scott Dahlgren said there are currently 20 police officers with a capacity of 25. • Collaborating with local developers to tackle the city's housing shortage • Working closely with Huron County Growth Partnership to attract new businesses to Norwalk • Filling vacant storefronts