The county has been discussing improvements to the GIS system since April. The mapping plan would allow the county to stem negative impacts from issues such as population loss. It also allows entities to access all data related to land, such as for zoning, taxation and mapping.

The study would include how to provide better service at a lower cost by collaborating with the county, cities, townships, school districts and other government agencies.

All agencies currently using GIS and agencies that may benefit from an improved GIS program are to interviewed to create an updated and concise GIS plan.

The funding application was submitted by NCOESC in collaboration with Tiffin, Seneca Regional Planning Commission and Seneca County. Entities involved are not required to take action upon completion of the study and no costs are to be incurred by them.

North Central Ohio Regional Council of Governments Director John Davoli said former Seneca Regional Planning Commission Executive Director Jill Griffin initially started work on a plan.

While the county's various GIS plans are working, Davoli said many entities would benefit from creation of a master plan.

The study is to include school districts and Davoli said that got the attention of the state. He said including the districts would lower the cost and give schools more detailed maps for attendance boundaries and bus routes.

SRPC Executive Director Roxyanne Burrus said the study would clarify the current plan and help with implementation of the updated plan.

"The benefit of the study is an improved tool for the county, city and surrounding area and will help people to understand the dynamics of what's going on," she said.

Davoli and Burrus said the grant would not have been possible without continued cooperation among the entities involved.

The study is expected to take several months to complete.