Local leaders from across Logan County gathered Wednesday evening in Bellefontaine City Council chambers for the quarterly Logan County Mayors Association meeting, where updates ranged from infrastructure projects and community events to public safety and economic development.
Attendance was lighter than usual this month, with representatives from Lakeview, Zanesfield, Rushsylvania, and Bellefontaine, Ohio present.
Lakeview Mayor Elaine Fagan-Moore reported progress on an ongoing water project, including the recent replacement of three 100-year-old water mains.
Mayor Fagan-Moore said the work should improve water quality, especially for residents in the Midway area.
Construction is also expected to begin soon at 285 North Main Street, where the village building destroyed in the March 2024 tornado will be replaced.
Mayor Fagan-Moore also shared that its ball fields are once again busy with activity, while planning is underway for a Memorial Day parade and a possible Independence Day parade.
In addition, a “Seniors Helping Seniors” service day is being organized with Indian Lake High School students assisting senior citizens in the community.
Zanesfield’s mayor, Joe Fawcett, reported no major developments at this time but noted plans for a community block party and the display of 250 flags throughout the village this summer in honor of America 250.
Rushsylvania Mayor Jason Miller said numerous projects are underway, including park improvements, street work, signage updates, drainage fixes, and new sidewalks.
The village is also pursuing a grant to improve its water tower.
They are also enhancing cybersecurity within the village government and developing a neighborhood support program.
Mayor Miller added that this year’s Independence Day celebration is expected to be especially significant as part of the America 250 observance.
In Bellefontaine, Mayor Dave Crissman said the city is preparing for its Memorial Day parade, aiming for 250 participants.
He also reported that the city’s master plan is nearly complete and announced the recent purchase of the former National Salt building on South Main Street, noting that several options are being considered as development continues on the south side of the city.
Bellefontaine will also host its Independence Day fireworks display on Friday, July 3.
County Commissioner Mike Yoder addressed ongoing rumors surrounding a possible data center, stating that no data center project is currently coming to Logan County and that no applications have been submitted.
He also clarified that the water study at Indian Lake is unrelated to any such proposal.
The Logan County Health District encouraged residents to participate in the ongoing community health assessment, which can be found HERE.
Aaron Smith from the LUC said his office is working on a land use plan with the county and is available to assist villages or townships interested in creating zoning ordinances related to data centers.
Ben Vollrath, with economic development, highlighted the Neighbor to Neighbor program through the Logan County Friendly Senior Citizen Center and discussed the return of Career Launch grants.
Five $1,000 grants will be awarded to students remaining in the area and entering skilled trades, with applications due at the end of the month.
Vollrath also said the county’s new 3% short-term rental bed tax, which began in January, is progressing well.
About 80 rentals were registered during the first quarter, though many are seasonal properties.
Logan County EMA Director Helen Norris said her office had a busy day working with the National Weather Service following storm damage at Benjamin Logan Schools, where straight-line winds of 70 to 80 mph were confirmed.
Sheriff Randy Dodds said the county jail continues to face costly plumbing issues and currently houses around 60 inmates.
He added that the jail’s garden is underway, and chickens are helping supplement food supplies.
Dodds also noted staffing challenges, saying the sheriff’s office has lost five deputies since January 1 due to retirements and other departures.
He said drugs, domestic violence, and speeding have been ongoing concerns as warmer weather returns.
Meanwhile, the county animal shelter has processed about 100 dogs since early January.
The sheriff also reminded the community that the annual golf outing benefiting the K9 unit is scheduled for June 5 and said the department is continuing to hire.
The next Logan County Mayors Association is set for Wednesday, July 22, at 6:30 at the Logan County Animal Shelter.
