Geauga County Buys Library Building to Create Permanent Chardon Senior Center

CHARDON, Ohio — Geauga County has taken a major step toward securing long-term services for its growing senior population, with the Board of Commissioners approving the $3.2 million purchase of the Geauga County Public Library Administration Building at 12701 Ravenwood Drive in Chardon. The May 12, 2026 vote marks what officials are calling a historic milestone for senior services in the county — the first time in many years that the area will have a permanent senior center purpose-built to meet the evolving needs of older adults. Grant Funding Drives the Deal The acquisition was made possible in large part through a $2.6 million Revolving Loan Fund Community and Economic Development Block Grant, significantly offsetting the cost of the purchase. The Geauga County Department on Aging (GDA) partnered with the Board of Commissioners to pursue the property, which sits in the 44024 service area described as the most-served zone for senior programming in the county. A Phased Transition The Geauga County Public Library will remain in the building through June 30, 2027, as it transitions administrative operations to its new Chardon Branch. That timeline allows for a smooth handoff with no disruption to county services. Once the library relocates, the GDA will begin renovations to convert the facility into the permanent Chardon Senior Center. What the New Center Will Offer The renovated building is planned to house a wide range of programs for older adults, including nutrition and meal services, wellness and chronic disease management, fitness and health education, and social engagement opportunities. Officials say the expansion of space will also allow the GDA to grow programming beyond what current facilities can accommodate. The investment aligns with both the GDA’s mission and the State Plan on Aging, reflecting a broader commitment to healthy, active aging across the county. Looking Ahead GDA Director Jessica Boalt called the purchase an exciting and historic step for the department. Kris Carroll, Director of the Geauga County Public Library, noted the transition represents a meaningful milestone for the library as well, allowing it to consolidate operations and sharpen its focus on community services. Additional updates on the renovation timeline and planning process are expected as the project moves forward.