Lockland, Ohio, Faces Challenges Amid Surge of Immigrants from Mauritania.
LOCKLAND, Ohio (WKRC) — The small village of Lockland is experiencing a significant increase in immigrants, most of whom are fleeing violence and persecution in Mauritania, a country on the western coast of Africa. These individuals are in the United States legally under temporary protected status while their asylum applications are processed.
Mayor Mark Mason has raised alarms about the pressure this influx is placing on local emergency services. He noted that many 911 calls are being made for non-emergencies. “When there’s a true emergency, our units are already out,” Mason explained. “This delays response times, and you may have to wait for a neighboring agency to assist.” He mentioned that there have been several apartment fires, often due to residents not being accustomed to cooking on stoves.
Mason is calling for a federal response to address the situation. He believes a program is needed to help guide immigrants to larger communities that are better equipped to support an increased population. Additionally, he stressed that funding is essential to help cover the rising costs of local services.
The village has sought assistance but has faced limited responses until recent media coverage brought attention to the issue. “The stories you’ve reported have certainly prompted some calls,” Mason said. “Last Friday, we met with representatives from Congressman Davidson’s office, and we have also talked with staff from Sherrod Brown’s office.”
Local 12 had been trying to reach Congressman Warren Davidson’s office for nearly four weeks. A response was finally received on Wednesday afternoon. In an email, Davidson’s chief of staff, Armani Gracia, stated, “Thanks for reaching out, but we’re going to pass.”
Democrat Vanessa Enoch, who is running against Davidson in November, believes funding for immigrant support should be linked to a border security bill that she would be proud to sponsor. “It has to be dollars that complement that policy,” Enoch said. “I believe this needs to happen at the federal level. We must send resources to communities to support an influx of people, no matter where they come from.”
Mason expressed concern that if no action is taken, Lockland may face a tragic outcome.
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