Lima City Council adopted Resolution 13-25 on first reading Friday night, commending the Boilermaker Restaurant and Bar and owner Lila Johnson for 55 years of service to the Lima community.

The resolution notes the establishment opened in 1946 as Oliver’s Nightclub, later operated as Club Utopia, and was passed within the Johnson family before reopening as the Boilermaker Restaurant and Bar in honor of the owner’s father’s work at the Lima Ordnance Depot. The council recognized the restaurant as “Lima’s oldest Black‑owned restaurant and bar” and cited its role as a local gathering place across generations.

Councilors offered personal recollections about the business, describing it as a longtime site for live music and community events. Councilor Glenn said, “First of all, I want to thank Miss Johnson...I knew her mother and father, and then her siblings had a lot to do with it too,” and noted the place’s role in community celebrations. Councilor Wilkerson recalled childhood memories of live music there and thanked the Johnson family for preserving the venue’s cultural history.

Lila Johnson, who accepted the resolution, thanked council and attendees and described her efforts to keep the business running despite challenges. Johnson said she would donate five turkeys to Dairy Glen’s program as part of her contribution to the community.

Why it matters
The resolution is ceremonial but highlights the council’s recognition of small, locally owned businesses that serve as cultural institutions. Council members emphasized the Boilermaker’s role in Lima’s musical and civic history and praised Johnson’s long-term stewardship.

What’s next
The resolution passed on its first reading by an 8–0 roll-call vote. No further council action on the resolution is required; staff will record and file the adopted resolution.