NE Ohio Times

State Representative Sarah Fowler Arthur (R-Ashtabula) has taken a stand in support of House Bill 413, which aims to address the judicial needs in Ashtabula County. The legislation, presented in the House Civil Justice Committee, seeks to replace two part-time judgeships with one full-time judge, as well as expand the territorial jurisdiction of the Conneaut Municipal Court to include specific areas.

Fowler Arthur highlighted that the proposed change comes as a response to a court system review conducted by the Ohio Supreme Court last July. She emphasized, "The desire to consolidate was brought to my attention by the Ashtabula County Commissioners and our current judges, who have been in discussion for nearly two years about the caseload trends and respective judicial needs of Ashtabula County."

Moreover, the County Commissioners estimate that this transition to a full-time judge will result in significant cost savings for Ashtabula County. Fowler Arthur stated, "It is estimated by the County Commissioners that this transition will save the county at least $267,000 annually."

The bill sponsor also noted that there has been a lack of opposition to the consolidation, with several open forums held for public input. House Bill 413 is currently pending further consideration by the committee.