LUCAS COUNTY, Ohio —

The Lucas County prosecutor is asking for more money for the office.

Prosecuting attorney Julia Bates asked the Lucas County commissioners for a $1.2 million increase for the 2026 budget. Bates explained that this money would be used to hire new lawyers and give raises. She said her office currently can't offer competitive pay, and she wants to be able to retain people.

In Bates' presentation to the commissioners, she applauded them for investments the county has made into things like hotels and Lucas County Canine Care and Control, but she said there is a balance.

"You have to do good things for the community," Bates said. "It can't all be about paying salaries for cops and prosecutors."

However, Bates said right now her office needs more money. She is a

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