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Bad Checks filing a complaint

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1. What if I want to drop the charge?

First of all, please be aware of the fact that you are a witness for the prosecution. Even though you are the person who suffered as a result of the crime, the case is “State of Ohio or City of Lima vs (Name of Defendant).” The prosecutor is responsible for making decisions about all cases

2. What types of criminal complaints are not handled by our office:

1. Complaints against individuals under the age of 18 at the time the incident occurred. Please go to the Juvenile Court Prosecutor’s Office – 204 N. Main Street, Lima, OH 45801. They are open Tuesdays from 9:00 am to 10:30 am.

2. Felony complaints – please contact the law enforcement agency that handles the location where the crime occurred. All felony matters are investigated by the police and prosecuted by the Allen County Prosecutor’s Office.

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Code Enforcement

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1. Where can information about the Property Maintenance Code be found?

Property Maintenance Code

For copies of the ordinance, or to obtain a copy of the Lima Property Maintenance codes, contact the Lima City Council Clerk's office at 419-221-5218. All Lima laws regarding property maintenance can be found in Chapter 18 of the Codified Ordinances of Lima.

Where can I find my rights as a tenant? 

"Tenant Landlord Rights and Responsibilities Under the Ohio Laws" available here or contact West Ohio Community Action Partners (WOCAP) at 419-227-2586.

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Guide to Protection orders

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1. What are Protection Orders?

A Protection Order is granted by a Judge and orders the defendant to stay away from you. The defendant should not enter your home or approach you at your place of work or school. If the defendant violates the protection order, a new charge could be filed and the defendant could be arrested.

Although the Judge may grant the Protection Order, it does not guarantee your safety. It is important for you to be very careful and take steps to ensure your safety as much as possible. (See SAFETY HINTS)

The law (2919.27 and 3113.31 Ohio Revised Code) states that protection orders issued anywhere in the State of Ohio are enforceable throughout the state - if they are current and still valid. Comparable protection orders issued in other states may also be valid in Ohio.

2. Are all Protection Orders the same?

No. There are four different kinds of protection orders. Municipal (Criminal) court may issue a Domestic Violence Temporary Protection Order (DVTPO) or a Criminal Protection Order (CRPO) depending on the type of charge and your relationship to the defendant. Civil (Domestic) Court issues Civil Protection Orders (CPO) if you are a family or household member of the defendant. If you are being stalked, Common Pleas Court may issue a Civil Stalking or Sexually Orientated Offense Protection Order (SSOOPO).

3. Who can get a Criminal Protection Order?

If you are not considered a household or family member according to O.R.C. 2919.25, then you may request a Protection Order if any of the following charges are filed on your behalf.
- Felonious Assault
- Aggravated Assault
- Assault
- Aggravated Menacing
- Menacing by Stalking
- Menacing
- Aggravated Trespass

If you are considered a household or family member according to O.R.C. 2919.25, then you may request a Protection Order if an offence of violence is filed on your behalf. Offense of violence include but are not limited to:
- Domestic Violence
- Felonious Assault
- Aggravated Assault
- Assault
- Menacing by Stalking
- Aggravated Trespass
- Criminal Damaging/Endangering
- Criminal Mischief
- Burglary
- Endangering Children

4. How do I get a Criminal Protection Order?

a. A criminal charge must have been filed against the defendant,
b. The crime must be specified by statue (ORC 2919.26/2903.213)
c. You must be the victim of the crime,
d. Your relationship with the defendant must comply with the law see below.

5. Who are considered family and household members?

a. Spouse
b. Former spouse
c. Persons living together as spouses or otherwise cohabiting
1. Persons living as spouses must have lived with the offender within five years prior to the incident unless the victim is the natural parent of the offender's child.
d. Parents, children or other persons related by blood or marriage who are living or have lived with the offender.
e. Persons who have a child(ren) together do not have to have lived together in order to qualify under this statute.
f. Other types of relationships not mentioned above may be covered under this statute, but they must be examined on a case by case basis.

If all of the above apply and the prosecutor's office has assisted you in filing a criminal charge, then you need to call to see if the suspect has been served with the criminal complaint. Once the suspect has been served with their paperwork they will be assigned an arraignment date. At this point is when you will have a hearing for your protection order.

6. How long does the order last?

The criminal protection order is good only as long as the related charge is pending. When the case is resolved, the order expires.

A Civil Protection Order or Civil Stalking Protection Order can last up to five years and possibly be renewed for an additional five years.

7. Can I get a Criminal Protection Order any time?

No. In order to get a Criminal Protection Order, one of the charges mentioned in “Who can get a Criminal Protection Order?” Must be filed against the defendant. Protection orders are ONLY granted at the time of Arraignment.

8. Why do I have to come to the Arraignment?

In order to get a Criminal Protection Order you need to be present at the Arraignment. Typically, a hearing is held in order to establish grounds to consider granting the Criminal Protection Order. A hearing must be held allowing the Judge and the defendant's attorney a chance to hear from you what happened and why you want the protection order.

Arraignment is also where the Judge sets bond on the defendant, and the prosecutor needs to know your feelings about the defendant's release.

9. What will happen in Arraignment?

You will probably be asked to stand in front of the Judge (a Domestic Violence Advocate will be with you), raise your right hand and swear your statements are true. The Judge, prosecutor and/or defendant's attorney may ask you questions. Answer all questions as briefly and honestly as you can. The Judge wants to hear what happened during the incident and why you want a protection order.

Be aware that any information you give under oath can and may be used by the defendant's attorney.

10. What should I do if there is a violation of the Protection Order?

The violation of a Protection Order is a criminal offense in addition to any criminal charges already filed.

If the defendant violates the Protection Order or the protective provision of the CPO/SSOOPO in any way, call the police. DO NOT ATTEMPT TO REASON OR ARGUE WITH THE DEFENDANT. GET YOURSELF TO SAFETY. When the police arrive, show them a copy of your Protection Order. The police will want to confirm the validity of the Protection Order with their records department or the Clerk of Courts.

Ask the police to make a report regarding the Protection Order violation (even if the officer does not make an arrest). Also, write down the officer's name and badge number so that the prosecutor's office can contact the officer if it becomes necessary. You should go to the prosecutor’s office during the next available intake hours.

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Lima Fire Department

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1. What is the best kind of fire extinguisher for my house?

A-B-C extinguisher can be used on any type of fire commonly found in the home. Remember, fires can spread quickly and the fire department should be called anytime there is a fire or suspicion of a fire so that we can make sure the situation in the safest possible manner.

2. Why are there fire apparatus parked at the grocery store?

Because shifts are 24 hours, Lima Fire function much like a family and eat meals together every day. The City of Lima does not provide meals while on duty. Each shift collects money every morning that then are used to shop for daily meals. While at the store, firefighters are on duty and still are required to response to emergencies. They will leave food if necessary.

3. Why does a fire truck respond when we call for an ambulance?

When you call for an ambulance, the 911 Operator will attempt to determine the type and severity of the emergency. In some cases, the medical situations are serious enough that more manpower is necessary to provide proper care to the patient. Fire Stations are located in the north end, downtown and south end of the city. In many cases, a fire truck can respond to and initiate vital emergency care before an ambulance arrives.

4. Can I burn trash at my house?

No, you cannot burn trash, yard waste or left over construction materials, however, you can have a small recreational fire as long as it meets specific guidelines. This link “open burning guideline” will explain what you can and cannot burn and how to burn it. A quick overview:
• Must burn seasoned firewood (dry), no leaves.
• No larger than three (3) feet in diameter and two (2) feet tall.
• Must be attended by an adult at all times.
• Fire can be no closer than 25 feet to the nearest structure.
• An extinguishing agent (garden hose, fire extinguisher) must be easily accessible.

A fire official can order the fire to be extinguished even if it meets these guidelines if it is determined to be a nuisance or danger. High winds, excessive smoke or smoke blowing into a neighbor’s window are some examples.

5. Why do you send a fire truck with three or four firefighters to check fire hydrants?

Whenever the department has extra manpower, we will send a single firefighter in a pickup truck to check fire hydrants. However, due to safety issues and the need to maintain company integrity, we are required to have a minimum of three firefighters on each Engine Company and two firefighters on a Rescue or Medic Crew. Each station has a set number of hydrants that must be checked each Spring and Fall. In order to accomplish this task, we are required when staffing levels are low enough, to send out the entire crew. Please be aware that these crews are “in service” at all times and will respond to emergencies.

6. I am interested in becoming a Lima Firefighter. How do I apply?

All hiring is done through the Lima Civil Service Board. In order to be considered for employment you must first fill out an application with the Lima Civil Service Board. Notices will be published in the local newspaper and posted at various locations when applications are being accepted. The due date for applications to be turned in will be posted along with the location, date and time of the Civil Service Test. All necessary qualifications you must meet will also be listed. Currently, you must be between the age of 18 and 31 at the time of appointment. If you pass the written portion of the test, you will be scheduled for an oral interview with members of the Civil Service Board. A final score is tabulated and you are placed on a Civil Service list. This list, which is good for one year and usually extended one year, is forwarded to the Chief of the Lima Fire Department. When positions are ready to be filled, applicants are called in for interviews with LFD personnel. You will have to pass a background check, a medical physical, a physical agility test and possible further interviews before a final selection is made.

7. How do I request a tour of the Fire Station?

Tours are available by calling (419) 221-5160 or by filling out a "tour request form"

8. Do you fill swimming pools?

We are sorry, but the Lima Fire Department does not fill swimming pools.

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Municipal Court

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1. How much is my Traffic Ticket / Fine?

Click the following link to see Traffic Costs. Traffic Division Costs

2. How do I pay my ticket, fines, costs, or restitution online?

1. Visit our Case Inquiry / Payments site.
2. Click continue after reading the disclaimer.
3. Click TR/CR Case Lookup.
4. Using the drop-down box, select a way to find your case (Name, Case Number, Ticket#).
5. Type in your search term as selected above in the box.
6. Click Lookup.
7. Find your case in the search results and click on the case number.
8. Click Make Payment and follow the on-screen steps to complete the payment process.
Case Inquiry / Payments

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Public Works

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1. Who handles problems with traffic signals?

Division of Engineering at (419) 221-5288.

2. Who is responsible for dealing with standing water in the roadways or public right-of-ways?

Division of Stormwater Utility. Call (419) 221-5288.

3. Who handles potholes, dead animals or debris in roadways and unsafe roadway conditions?

Contact the Streets Division at (419) 221-5165.

4. Who is responsible for street lights?

Street lights are owned by either the City of Lima or American Electric Power. Call (419) 221-5165.

5. Who do we contact regarding road closures, street signs or road barricades?

Visit our Engineering and Streets Division webpages or contact Streets Division at (419) 221-5165.

6. Do I need a permit to do work on my house? What type of work warrants a permit?

Yes, most improvements and renovations require a permit. Please contact our Building Department - (419) 221-5243 - for further information.

7. How do I arrange an inspection on my building project?

Contact our Building Department at (419) 221-5243 for further information.

8. Do I need a permit if I am building a new shed or installing a fence?

Please review the Department of Housing and Neighborhoods, Zoning webpage for clarification

9. Are permits required for garage sales?

Yes. You may acquire a permit from the Building Department for $5 in-person or for free when obtained online.  Visit their webpage for details. Permits are valid for up to 5 consecutive days.

10. Who do I contact to reserve a shelter house or arrange a wedding in a park?

Contact Parks and Recreation Division at (419) 221-5195, Monday - Friday between 8am - 4pm.

11. When is the Summer Playground Program and how do I sign up?

Registration forms are found under the Parks and Recreation webpage, or you can visit the City of Lima's Parks and Recreation Division at 900 S. Collett Street (between the hours of 8am - 4pm) to register.

12. Does the City of Lima have a tree planting program?

Yes. Contact the City of Lima's Parks and Recreation Division at (419) 221-5195.

13. Will the City of Lima remove my tree?

Typically, trees that are located within the road right-of-way or on city property and identified by the City as dead, diseased, or dangerous will be removed. The City of Lima has its own tree removal crew, contact the Parks and Recreation Division at (419) 221-5195.

14. Can I put tree or shrub debris out for pickup?

Tree limbs and brush can be bundled or bagged and placed at the curb for pick-up on trash day. HOWEVER, if a utility company (such as AEP) cuts the tree and leaves the limbs in the curblawn, please contact the Streets Division (419) 221-5165.

15. Is there a disposal site for limbs and yard debris in the city?

Yes. The Lima compost facility is located at 1227 E. Hanthorn Road. (419) 227-4240.

16. Where can I pick up leaf bags?

900 South Collett Street, Monday - Friday 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

17. Who handles refuse, recycling and yard waste pick-up?

Contact the Lima Utilities Department at (419) 221-5252.

18. Who do I contact about my stormwater assessment fee? Are there any reductions possible?

Please contact our Stormwater Utility Department at (419) 221-5288.
Visit our Public Works / Engineering / Stormwater Utility webpage for further explanation and forms.

19. Who do I contact if I have questions about my sanitary service?

Contact the Lima Utilities Department at (419) 221-5252

20. Who do I contact if I have questions or concerns with my water service or water bill?

Contact the Lima Utilities Department at (419) 221-5252.

21. Are permits required for water or sanitary services?

Please contact the Utilities Department for further information.

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Questions about Subpoena

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1. I received a subpoena and I can not make the upcoming court date, what do I do?

You need to contact the prosecutor handling the case as soon as possible. (419) 221-5234 be sure to have you subpoena available so that you may reference the case number at the top of the page. Please leave a message if your call is not answered and include the case number, your name and phone number as well as the reason you are unable to appear on the specified date and time.

2. What happens if I do not come to court?

Failure to appear at the time and place indicated on your subpoena may result in your being held in contempt of court. A warrant for your arrest will be issued and, upon your arrest, a hearing will be scheduled for you to appear before the judge and explain why you did not appear. If you are found to be in contempt of court, you can face jail time and/or a fine

3. I received my subpoena after the court date, what do I do?

Due to the high volume of cases we handle, inclement weather, problems with your mail service, etc. subpoenas may arrive late on some occasions. You will not be held responsible for any failure to receive a subpoena that was beyond your control. If you would like to know what happened with the case, you may check on the status of the case at any time by visiting Lima Municipal Court. If the case was continued to another date when you are unavailable, please contact the prosecutor’s office.

4. Do I need to bring anything with me to Court?

This is very case specific. The prosecutor assigned to your case will request any necessary information from you. However, let them know about any evidence you have obtained on your own such as photographs, damage estimates, etc.

5. What if I want to drop the charge?

First of all, please be aware of the fact that you are a witness for the prosecution. Even though you are the person who suffered as a result of the crime, the case is “State of Ohio or City of Lima vs (Name of Defendant).” The prosecutor is responsible for making decisions about all cases.

The City Prosecutor's office does not dismiss charges solely upon your request. This doesn’t mean that they do not need your input, but it does mean that either the prosecutor or the judge will make the final decision about the case

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Utility Field Services

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1. My sewer is backing-up in my basement, who do I need to call?

Call Utility Field Service (419) 221-5175 during business hours or after hours and weekends call (419) 222-9761

2. Whom should I call for emergency water turn-off

Call Utility Field Services (419) 221-5175 during, business hours or after hours and weekends call (419) 222-9761

3. What part of my water line is my responsibility to maintain?

The service line from the water main to the curb box which is usually in the tree lawn is the responsibility of the City; the customer is responsible for the water line from the curb box to inside the house.

4. What part of the sewer line am I responsible to maintain?

The customer is responsible to maintain their sewer lateral from the house to the sewer main.

5. My drains are not working properly what should I do?

In many cases the problem is in the property owners own sewer or drain line. The Utility Field Services division will check the City’s sewers at your request before you call a plumber or sewer cleaner.

6. What is the most common cause of sewer blockages?

Tree roots and cooking grease /oils are the most common causes. Cooking grease/oils should not be put down drains or the toilet; they should be disposed of in the garbage.

7. Why are there blue or green paint markings and flags in my yard?

The City of Lima is a member of the Ohio Utilities Protection service. At the request of other utilities or individuals we have received a request to mark the location of our lines. The blue lines or marks represent water lines. The green lines or marks represent sewer lines.

8. I would like to dig in my yard who do I notify?

Call (OUPS) Ohio Utilities Protection Service Phone number 811 or 1(800)362-2764 48 hours before digging provide them with a location of the excavation and they will notify the City to mark their lines.

9. I have a question about my water bill who do I call?

Customer Service Office (419)221-5252.

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Utility Waste Water Treatment

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1. Where do I go to get top soil and Lim-a-Soil?

All topsoil and Lim-a-soil sales are handled by Wright Mulch, 1227 E. Hanthorn Rd, (419) 228-1173.