City of Lima
Striving to make a marked difference in Lima.
Let’s collaborate:
Better Together:
For years, the City of Lima has worked to address long‑standing economic challenges rooted in neighborhood disinvestment, aging infrastructure and limited access to quality housing. Lima Mayor Sharetta Smith's Better Together Plan was launched in 2022 to create systemic, long-term progress toward safer neighborhoods, stronger infrastructure, better housing access, expanded youth opportunities and a more vibrant local economy.
In March 2026, Fifth Third expanded its place-based economic development programs to Lima, Ohio as the inaugural city in the Small Towns & Small Cities initiative. This four‑year commitment deploys intellectual, social and financial capital to accelerate Lima Mayor Sharetta Smith's Better Together Plan and advance economic mobility, housing and home ownership opportunities, workforce development and small business growth.
Advancing Economic Mobility in Lima
“Lima is honored to be selected as the first community in Fifth Third’s Small Towns & Small Cities initiative, and we’re grateful for a partner that understands real economic mobility is built at the local level—on our blocks, in our neighborhoods and through the success of our small businesses and working families,” said Mayor Sharetta Smith.
“This four-year commitment aligns with our Better Together Plan and accelerates the work we’re already leading to expand homeownership, strengthen workforce pathways, modernize infrastructure and support entrepreneurs. Together, we will turn momentum into measurable results—and make sure more Lima residents can see and feel the progress in their everyday lives.”
Lima named first community in Fifth Third’s Small City Program
Fifth Third selects Lima as first city for new economic development program
Contact Us
Tara Campbell
Director, Place Based Small
Business Strategy
LimaInquiry@53.com