Earlier this month, GOPC brought together community leaders from Ohio’s Small-and-Mid-Sized Legacy Cities via conference call to discuss responses, strategies, and policy needs in their local efforts to respond to COVID-19.

Nearly a third of the state’s population live within these regions, and over a third of the state’s GDP is produced by their residents and businesses. Over the past few years, GOPC has stewarded a network of Ohio’s Small Legacy Cities through the Reinvention Cities Network to provide peer learning and networking opportunities amongst peers, develop policy, and advocate on their behalf at the state level.

All participants spoke highly of the collaborations being formed within their communities. This multisector support from public, private, and philanthropic groups has been the first line of defense to ensuring the health and safety of the residents.

Small businesses are engrained in Ohio’s Legacy Cities, and are oftentimes the backbone of their downtowns and regional economies. Many community leaders shared they are working directly with small businesses to offer peer support and technical assistance, such as navigating the SBA’s latest programs.

Community leaders also identified housing as a longer-term concern facing their communities, which includes homeowners and renters. Several participants noted that they were worried about their renting populations after eviction moratoriums end, and especially with the staggering unemployment numbers facing the state.

Ohio’s Legacy Cities are resilient, and are filled with dedicated, hardworking community leaders and citizens with grit and determination. In the coming weeks, GOPC will continue advocacy efforts to ensure the determined work in Ohio’s legacy cities is coupled with sensible policies.