DevelopOhio

After determining that the economic development status quo has been ineffective in reversing "the continuing exodus of businesses and people" from the region, Van Wert County commissioners voted last week to exit the county's contract with the Ohio State University Extension so that it can "pursue a new paradigm for community and economic development," The Delphos Herald reports. The contract dates back to 2002 and, according to the article, the commissioners' decision is effective immediately. There is no timeline for a specific replacement plan to be proposed. Commissioners said that the new arrangement will involve streamlining economic development activities and controlling them at the local level, and that it will only take shape after "the City of Van Wert decides if it wants to be a part of a new board," the article said. For more, read the full story.