Good morning, Toledo.

Local advocate Venus Chapman is teaching renters their rights as she battles rising costs and neglected properties in Toledo.

She works with lawyers and nonprofits to help residents learn how to handle housing issues.

Residents on Schmidlin Road say speeding drivers endanger children and pedestrians and are calling for traffic calming measures such as speed bumps or cameras (a city council response is pending).

On Sept. 30, Monroe and Toledo shelters were stretched to capacity — agencies reported that residents were sent across state lines due to limited space and officials are working to secure additional beds.

Daughter and colleagues of Officer Dana Slay honored her pioneering legacy as the first Black officer to earn Toledo Police Department Badge No. 1, a milestone that marked a turning point for the department.

The remembrance piece published Sep. 30 highlights how her impact continues to inspire local service.

Recent estimates indicate cost-of-living in Northwest Ohio in 2026 will remain affordable, as housing, groceries & utilities keep expenses below national levels; experts believe the region may continue offering a lower-cost lifestyle for residents.

Ohio announced that starting Jan.

1, 2027 non-tipped workers will earn $11.40 an hour while tipped workers will earn $5.70, up from $11 and $5.50 (following a 2006 amendment to adjust wages).

Lucas County approved a roughly $25 million bond to pay off renovation debt for the downtown hotel — now a Hilton Garden Inn and Homewood Suites — on a 30-year plan costing about $1.88 million a year, aiming to boost local activity and allow future refinancing if revenue increases.

Lucas County economic leaders approved a $25 million bond + a 30-year repayment plan to settle downtown hotel debt on Sep.

30. The move is designed to boost local financial stability.

Toledo Fire & Rescue announced it is seeking applicants to join its next firefighter class.

Lt. James White said the department needs problem-solvers who are ready to serve the community.

State lawmakers voted to suspend the gas tax pending the governor's signature, establishing a 90-day tax holiday expected to ease fuel costs for local drivers.

Wood County health officials confirmed a measles case after an infected adult visited four Bowling Green locations before being diagnosed.

The health department listed these sites as potential exposure points.

Humane Ohio is putting Moonshine, an older dog who loves snuggles and is good with kids (and even cats) up for adoption.

The shelter asks local families to give her a forever home and extra playtime to support her health.