Five things to know for Monday, Oct. 20

Joint Cleveland-state initiative nets 16 arrests

Authorities last week made 16 felony arrests in Cleveland, including a man wanted for six felony charges in connection with an incident earlier this month.

This multi-agency operation was part of an ongoing violent crime reduction initiative in Cleveland that Republican Gov. Mike DeWine and Democratic Mayor Justin Bibb launched in 2023.

Firm selected for Cuyahoga County energy assistance programs

Step Forward has been selected to provide Ohio’s energy assistance programs to Cuyahoga County residents.

With the announcement from the Ohio Department of Development, Step Forward will oversee the county’s Home Energy Assistance Program, Percentage of Income Payment Plan, and the HEAP Summer and Winter Crisis programs. The selection follows a request seeking countywide coverage for the programs.

State announces millions for dilapidated properties

The Ohio Department of Development will award $21.5 million for communities to raze neglected commercial and residential buildings and rejuvenate surrounding properties throughout the state.

State lawmakers included the money for the Building Demolition and Site Revitalization Program in the latest two-year budget. Roughly $230,000 will be set aside for each of the state’s 88 counties, with the taxpayer dollars remaining available until July 1, 2026.

Ohio announces money for career-connected learning opportunities

State officials announced $7.1 million to support more learning opportunities for Ohio students.

The Career Pathway Support Network Grant will launch Career Pathway Support Networks, replacing the current Tech Prep Regional Centers. The networks build on the foundation of the Tech Prep model.

Hearing planned for Mahoning County transmission line

The Ohio Power Siting Board will hold a public hearing about an application to build an electric transmission line in Mahoning County.

American Transmission Systems wants to build a 138-kilovolt transmission line connecting the Lincoln Park Substation with the Riverbend Substation. Possible route alternatives travel through the city of Youngstown and a portion of Campbell.