Lucas County Sheriff Budget Hits $3.3M in Township Fees

Sheriff Mike Navarre told Lucas County commissioners on Tuesday that Monclova and Springfield townships will collectively pay nearly $3.3 million for sheriff’s department services in 2027.

The figure became the central point of contention as the board reviewed the annual budget. State law requires Ohio sheriffs to preserve public peace, but the cost of that obligation varies by municipality. Towns without their own police forces rely on deputies for emergencies, while Monclova and Springfield pay extra for expanded response and patrol coverage.

Commissioners and their staff argue the proposed fees are insufficient. They believe the county general fund will need to cover the difference, squeezing a tight budget. Navarre maintains the current contract structure adequately compensates for the additional services provided beyond statutory duties.

Commissioner Anita Lopez suggested the department could negotiate higher revenue through these township agreements. “There is an opportunity for you to negotiate more revenue to increase your budget through this township contracts,” Lopez said. Navarre countered that the new contracts will cover personnel costs, including estimated wages for 2027.

The department faces a 13% reduction requirement from the board. Even after eliminating 20 positions, the sheriff’s budget has risen by 8.5%, driven by wage increases approved by commissioners last year. The county must submit a final budget before the end of the year.