Register today for the virtual Alliance Annual Meeting, Thursday, February 26, 11:00 AM.
Community Development is the strategic foundation upon which Hardin County’s prosperity is built. While our economic initiatives focus on business growth, our community development efforts focus on people, places, and the essential services that define our quality of life. By fostering strong local partnerships, we ensure that Hardin County is not just a place to do business, but a vibrant, healthy, and resilient home for every resident.
Our division acts as a central coordinator for the organizations and agencies that protect our environment, support our families, and revitalize our neighborhoods. We believe that a competitive county requires a "holistic" approach—one that balances industrial momentum with social stability and environmental stewardship.
Strategic Revitalization: Supporting local Community Improvement Corporations (CICs) to breathe new life into our historic properties and industrial sites.
Essential Public Services: Partnering with health, safety, and transit agencies to ensure a reliable and secure infrastructure for all.
Empowering Residents: Connecting citizens with housing, education, and human services that promote long-term self-sufficiency and upward mobility.
Preserving Our Character: Investing in the philanthropic and beautification efforts that maintain the unique identity of our villages and rural landscapes.
Community Improvement Corporations (CICs) serve as the strategic engines for revitalization across Hardin County. These non-profit entities are empowered to advance the industrial, commercial, and civic development of our region by managing property reclamation and facilitating the reutilization of vacant or abandoned sites. By working in tandem with local government, our CICs help assemble land and clear titles, creating a clear path for new housing and business investment.
Kenton CIC (Hardin County): Focused on the county seat's industrial and civic footprint, as well as serving all of Hardin County.
Village of Forest CIC: Driving growth and property revitalization in the northeast corridor.
Village of Ada CIC: Supporting development around the university and local commercial districts.
Village of Mt. Victory CIC: Preserving community character while preparing for new investment.
The long-term prosperity of Hardin County is rooted in the health of our citizens and the stewardship of our land. We partner with specialized agencies to provide essential environmental oversight and sustainability programs that protect our natural resources. From public health safety to county-wide recycling initiatives, these organizations ensure our community remains a clean, safe, and welcoming environment for families and businesses alike.
Managing vital public health services including food safety, water systems, and commercial inspections.
Our local leader in litter prevention, beautification, and the promotion of recycling and waste reduction.
Law enforcement relative to wildlife resources, property owned or administered by the Division of Wildlife and Ohio Department of Natural Resources, stream pollution and littering, and all other areas of responsibility of the Division of Wildlife.
Hardin County is committed to providing a stable foundation for all residents through comprehensive housing support and human service programs. We focus on promoting personal and economic upward mobility by connecting families with the tools they need for a successful transition to self-sufficiency. Our partners provide a safety net that includes financial assistance, prenatal outcomes, and professional development.
Providing essential workforce support, childcare assistance, and family stability programs.
A central philanthropic partner funding local programs that address health, education, and financial stability.
Providing housing opportunities and promoting social mobility for Hardin County families.
A multi-faceted resource for financial assistance, education, and personal achievement.
Supporting local projects through grassroots funding for medical care, housing, and clothing.
The Hancock Hardin Wyandot Putnam Community Action Commission is committed to reducing the conditions of poverty by providing comprehensive services to improve lives.
Search for affordable and accessible Ohio rental housing using this free-to-use service.
HUD offers a variety of apartments, duplexes, townhouses, and single-family houses to purchase in Hardin County.
Investing in our youth is an investment in our future. Hardin County offers robust programming designed to foster leadership, agricultural literacy, and family stability. By providing our children with hands-on learning experiences and nutritional support, we are cultivating a generation of prepared, community-minded citizens.
Coordinating specialized educational services and support for students.
The local authority on 4-H Youth Develoment, Agriculture, and Family & Consumer Sciences.
Family Corner includes early learning family support, regional family support services, resources, and more.
The character of Hardin County is defined by our commitment to shared prosperity. Through local philanthropy and strategic community foundations, we invest in the arts, recreation, and beautification projects that make our villages unique. These organizations provide the vehicle for those who wish to leave a lasting legacy on the people and places of Hardin County.
Fostering the needs of residents through grants for education, health, and local beautification.
OhioHealth Community Relations extends the OhioHealth mission "to improve the health of those we serve" beyond the hospital walls.
Ensuring our seniors remain connected through dedicated transportation and access services.
Hardin County’s operational stability is maintained through a robust network of safety services and coordinated infrastructure management. We prioritize a proactive approach to emergency readiness and community mobility, ensuring that our residents and industrial partners operate in a secure, well-connected environment. These agencies work in tandem to mitigate risks and provide the essential transit services that keep our local economy moving.
Police, Fire, and EMS services provided in the Hardin County area.
The Hancock Hardin Wyandot Putnam Community Action Commission maintains a list of transportation resources on their website. Some services have eligibility requirements.
The primary mission of the Emergency Management Agency is to coordinate activities to mitigate, prepare for, respond to, and recover from disasters.
Hardin County offers more than just a place to work; it offers a place to thrive. Whether you are moving for a new career at one of our global manufacturing hubs or seeking the academic energy of Ada and Ohio Northern University, our community provides an unmatched blend of Midwestern charm and modern accessibility. We invite you to explore why so many families and professionals choose to call Northwest Ohio home—where a high quality of life meets one of the nation’s most affordable costs of living.
Our Relocation Guide is designed to simplify your journey, providing all the essential information you need to settle in quickly and confidently. From finding the perfect neighborhood to enrolling your children in our top-rated schools, this guide serves as your first local friend and advisor.
Community Profiles: Get to know our nine unique municipalities, including the historic county seat of Kenton and the vibrant college-town atmosphere of Ada.
Cost of Living Data: See how your dollar goes further in Hardin County with insights into our competitive housing market and low utility costs.
Education & Healthcare: Access directories for our local school districts and our award-winning regional medical facilities.
Settling In: A "New Resident Checklist" featuring contact info for local utilities, driver’s license registration, and community organizations.