Thursday night, a modest crowd gathered at the Ohio Hi-Point Career Center for the October meeting of the Top of Ohio Patriots, where local leaders spoke on a variety of community issues.
Speakers included Logan County Sheriff Randy Dodds, Bellefontaine Police Chief Chris Marlow, Logan County Commissioner Mike Yoder, and Bellefontaine Mayor Dave Crissman.
Discussion topics included property taxes, growth within Bellefontaine and Logan County, staffing issues, and the 911 levy that voters will see on this fall’s election ballot.
Sheriff Dodds stressed the importance of passing the 911 levy, explaining that it would consolidate Bellefontaine Police Dispatch and Logan County Dispatch under one roof at the Sheriff’s Department.
All four leaders expressed their support for the 911 consolidation levy, noting that as the county and city continue to grow, the funds would help fully equip the new dispatch center and free up general funds for other county and city needs.
Mayor Crissman addressed city growth, noting that growth often brings growing pains.
He said all city departments will need to expand alongside the new homes being added, including more police officers, more firefighters, and additional office space, as existing offices are at capacity.
All four leaders also discussed the challenge of hiring quality, qualified, and committed workers, noting that it can be difficult to compete with larger areas offering higher wages.
Commissioner Yoder touched on current and existing levies funded by property taxes, noting that there are 53 different entities in the county supported this way.
He also briefly mentioned the $20 million floor in Ohio law that he believes needs to be abolished.
After more than an hour of open discussion, a brief question-and-answer session allowed the public to interact with the leaders. Law enforcement addressed questions about the 911 levy, clarifying details and correcting misinformation.
Mayor Crissman answered tough questions regarding the pace of city growth and decisions being made by city officials.
Leaders also emphasized the importance of shopping local to keep money circulating within the community rather than larger cities.
All four gentlemen asked the public to contact them with any questions or concerns, stating they each have an open-door policy.
