Springfield area officials gathered Monday to discuss solutions for Haitian immigration issues, following Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost’s announcement that his office is exploring legal actions to limit the number of migrants in Ohio communities. Yost criticized the influx of migrants to Springfield, describing it as “absurd” and a “disaster.” He also reiterated social media claims about migrants engaging in illegal activities, including stealing livestock and squatting in homes, and suggested potential court action.
In recent months, leaders from Springfield and Clark County have sought federal and state assistance to manage the situation. They have met with Governor Mike DeWine, U.S. Representative Mike Turner, and federal immigration officials to support Haitian residents and alleviate the pressure on local resources.
Springfield Mayor Rob Rue stated that he has not discussed the issue with Yost but welcomes any support for essential services like translation and interpretation. “We are focused on managing the surge we’ve seen over the past few years,” Rue said. “We are doing our best with the resources we have to accommodate the growing number of people in our community.”
Rue also addressed claims about migrants engaging in illegal activities, stating that such reports are unverified. Springfield police confirmed they had not received similar complaints.
Clark County Commissioner Melanie Flax Wilt emphasized that local residents are working quietly to improve the community and address issues such as housing and food insecurity. “Once the media spotlight moves away from Springfield, we will be the ones facing the long-term challenges of this population surge,” Flax Wilt said.
Over the past five years, Springfield has seen an estimated 10,000-15,000 Haitian immigrants. Most are in the U.S. legally, either through a parole program or Temporary Protected Status.
Yost expressed concerns about the strain on local schools, healthcare, and the economy. Despite some businesses reporting increased sales due to Haitian customers, Yost questioned the limits of federal government intervention. “How many people can Springfield be expected to accommodate? What are the limits to federal power?” Yost asked.
He clarified that his issue is not with migrants per se but with the large increase without adequate federal support or communication.
Flax Wilt outlined three key priorities for managing the increased population: starting a new driver’s training program, stabilizing local infrastructure and funding, and assisting newcomers in integrating into the community. She noted that while federal funding would be beneficial, it is crucial to stabilize and wisely manage local tax revenues. “We were not fully prepared for this, but approaching the situation with rational and practical solutions is the best way forward,” Flax Wilt said.