Lake Erie West Regional Council Adopts New Name, Elects Leadership at Winter Assembly

More than 250 community, corporate and municipal leaders gathered Jan. 30 for the Winter Assembly of the Lake Erie West Regional Council, where members unanimously approved a historic name change from the Toledo Metropolitan Area Council of Governments.

The new name reflects a broader regional identity spanning five counties in northwest Ohio and Monroe County, Michigan. Jon Eckel, administrator of Perrysburg Township and Lake Erie West member, was honored by the organization for his substantial contributions during the name-change process.

“This was a milestone moment for our organization and the region we serve,” said Executive Director Sandy Spang. “Our new name better represents the collaborative, cross-border work our members are doing to strengthen communities and grow the regional economy.”

During the business meeting, members also elected a new executive board. George Sarantou, a member of Toledo City Council, was sworn in as chairman. Lisa Sobecki of Lucas County was sworn in as vice chairwoman, and Scott Miller of Sandusky County as second vice chairman.

Spang also announced that the council had opened its first satellite office in Fremont, located in the historic Brady Building downtown, expanding its presence across the region.

The assembly featured a keynote conversation on Lake Erie’s economic impact on northwest Ohio and southeast Michigan, tied to a broader vision for a “Fresh Coast Economic Corridor” across the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence region. Panelists included Jon Altenberg of the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence Cities Initiative and Chris Ronayne of Cuyahoga County, who discussed strategies for leveraging waterfront assets to drive economic growth while protecting freshwater resources.

The Winter Assembly is one of two major gatherings held annually by the council, bringing together leaders from across the region to set priorities, conduct official business and strengthen partnerships aimed at improving quality of life and economic vitality.

Spang said the strong turnout underscored growing regional momentum. “The engagement we saw shows that our members are energized about the future and committed to working together under this new banner,” she said.