Dig Deeper on Elida
Lima is at a crossroads geographically between several Midwestern cities as well as metaphorically in its evolution. It has a robust past as a manufacturing center of automotive parts, neon signs, and steam locomotives, but those industries are in obvious decline, and the city has followed suit. A strong oil and gas industry tied to local production and reserves does give some vitality to the economy, although it doesn’t bring a large number of jobs.
The downtown area, which is Midwestern in character, is struggling and unattractive, and many residential areas aren’t much better off. Cost of living and housing are among the lowest in the region, and commutes and general stresses are low. The energy industry, central location to many markets and an ambitious city government may indicate a favorable future.
Lima lies in the level, glaciated plain south of the Lake Erie shore. Most nearby land is agricultural. The climate is continental. Summers are warm and humid with frequent afternoon showers and thunderstorms. Winters are cool and humid with considerable cloudiness and an occasional blast of cold air from the north. Snowfall is generally light to moderate but can be heavy. Alternating freezes and thaws are common, with the first freeze arriving in mid-October and the last occurring in late April.