Callender Participates in Great Lakes Commission Semi-Annual Meeting

COLUMBUS– State Rep. Jamie Callender (R-Concord) recently participated in the Great Lakes Commission’s semi-annual meeting held in Washington, D.C., which focused on expanding cooperative efforts between the member states and provinces of the Great Lakes Commission. One of these efforts being a historic compact between the Great Lakes Commission, the Great Lakes Fishery Commission, and the International Joint Commission.

Since its founding in 1955, the Great Lakes Commission has served as a resource for member states to coordinate efforts in stabilizing lake levels, combating coastal erosion and pollution standardizing and overseeing navigation through the Lakes, and persevering biodiversity.

“Lake Erie is not only one of Ohio’s greatest economic drivers, but it serves as an important resource for recreation and family tradition,” said Callender. “I am honored to have been appointed to this board and to have already taken historic steps at uniting commissions for the purpose of bettering our natural lakes and communities.”

“Lake Erie is one of our most valuable resources here in Ohio, and we’ve made protecting it a top priority,” said Mary Mertz, Director of ODNR and Great Lakes Commission Chair. “I am excited to work with Representative Callender and look forward to seeing what his fresh perspective can do to keep our mission of clean water in the Great Lakes moving in the right direction.”

“Lake Erie is the greatest natural resource that we enjoy here in Lake County,” said Paul Palagyi, Executive Director of the Lake County Metroparks. “Having Representative Callender on the Great Lakes Commission ensures that local voices are part of this important and impactful government entity.  Representative Callender’s knowledge about the value a healthy Lake Erie provides to residents along its shores will help continue the restoration of the Great Lakes and increase public access to this national treasure.”

“I couldn’t think of anyone better to serve on the Great Lakes Commission,” said Lake County Commissioner John Hamercheck. “Representative Callender’s tireless dedication to championing both recreation and economic development along the lakefront has benefited thousands of people and hundreds of communities.”

Also during the trip, Representative Callender had the opportunity to meet with members of Ohio’s Congressional delegation, including Congressman Dave Joyce (OH-14), Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-9), and Senator J.D. Vance (R-OH).

Callender was appointed to the Great Lake Commission earlier this year. The next meeting will take place in October in Rochester, NY.