The Logan County Mayor’s Association held its quarterly meeting Wednesday evening in Bellefontaine, bringing together mayors from Belle Center, Bellefontaine, Lakeview, Rushsylvania, and West Liberty to discuss current issues and community initiatives across the county.
Logan County Commissioner Mike Yoder announced that the long-awaited animal shelter groundbreaking will take place Thursday at 2:30 p.m. at the Logan County Sheriff’s Office.
He invited all city and village leaders to attend.
Sheriff Randy Dodds added that the shelter is expected to open in October.
He also shared updates on county crime trends, noting that methamphetamine remains the most common drug of choice, and mental health continues to be a countywide concern.
Dodds praised the work of his office in apprehending two brothers linked to a multi-county crime spree, including a break-in at Thomas in West Liberty.
Both suspects are currently jailed in Columbus.
Dodds also mentioned upcoming community events, including an Easter Egg Hunt this Saturday at 1 p.m., and the Behind the Badge Golf Outing fundraiser, scheduled for the first Friday in June.
Nick Davis, Regional Director for Senator Bernie Moreno, introduced himself to the mayors and offered to serve as a direct liaison between their communities and the senator’s office.
From the Logan-Union-Champaign (LUC) Regional Planning Commission, Heather Martin reminded leaders that demolition grant applications through the Logan County Land Bank will be opening soon.
Aaron Smith also noted that the Municipal Board of Zoning Appeals training will take place next week, and asked that each community send a representative.
Though not in attendance, EMA Director Helen Norris sent word that storm damage assistance may be available to municipalities affected by recent heavy rains.
Each mayor provided a brief update from their respective communities:
- Bellefontaine Mayor Dave Crissman said the city is continuing to grow, with 38 new homes added in 2024 and 41 more already in the first two months of 2025. The city anticipates adding up to 200 new homes by year’s end. He also mentioned Bellefontaine’s involvement in America 250, encouraging all communities to host local picnics on July 4, 2026, to celebrate the nation’s 250th birthday.
- Belle Center Mayor Lance Houchin reported that with warmer weather, the village is focused on traffic control and safety as kids return outdoors.
- Lakeview Mayor Elaine Fagan-Moore highlighted a recent March 2024 tornado remembrance event and announced a workday with Indian Lake High School seniors on April 22 to beautify the homes of two senior citizens. A community tornado cleanup day is also planned for May 17 at 9 a.m. She noted progress is slow on replacing the village office, which was destroyed in the storm, and praised the Washington Township Police Department for its patrol efforts.
- Rushsylvania Mayor Jason Miller said things remain “quiet” in the village. Officials are pursuing grant funding to improve park parking, and the Rushsylvania Food Council will meet on April 30 to support initiatives like community gardens and a possible farmers market. He also noted low crime and minimal housing vacancies.
- West Liberty’s Brad Hudson reported plans to create an outdoor seating space by possibly vacating an alley near Dorsey’s downtown. Upcoming events include Spring Cleanup Day at Lions Park on May 10 and the annual Fire Sales on the third Saturday in May. The village is also in the process of interviewing candidates for a Village Administrator.
Mayon Hudson talks about why this meeting is important and talks about a few of the things happening in his village:
The next Logan County Mayor’s Association meeting will be held on Wednesday, July 16, at 6:30 p.m. in the Bellefontaine City Council Chambers.
