NEWARK -- Licking County Commissioner Tim Bubb said Thursday a tour of the Noble County Historic Museum showed what can be done with an old jail facility.
The commissioners have said they would like to turn the county's old jail, located at 46 S. Third St., into a tourist attraction, potentially resulting in tours, events and maybe even a Halloween haunted house.
The huge Millersburg sandstone building, built in 1889 on the design of prominent Columbus architect J.W. Yost, has not been used to house prisoners since a new jail was built in 1987.
Bubb and Deputy Clerk Pam Jones traveled Wednesday to Caldwell, to view Noble County's historic jail, built in 1882 and restored as a museum and visitor center.
"I think we learned a little bit about what our jail could be," Bubb said. "You can take a building of that vintage and make it look really nice."
County officials probably would turn over the operation of the former Licking County jail to a nonprofit group rather than operate it themselves, Bubb said. But the county would retain ownership to have control of its future.
"We probably don't want to be in the museum business," Bubb said. "There is some value of saving old buildings and renovating them. It's an asset, not a liability."
The three-story structure in downtown Caldwell is operated by a nonprofit organization, which leases the building from the county for $10 per year, Jones said.
The Noble County facility was one of few facilities of its type to also be used as the jailer's residence.
The former jail in Newark also was living quarters for the county sheriff and later the jail matron. Visitors coming through the Third Street entrance walked into the sheriff's front parlor, where there once were elaborate parties.
In November, an investigator with Southeastern Ohio Paranormal Investigators, a Zanesville-based group that searches buildings for evidence of spiritual activity, toured the building and concluded it is haunted.
The building is used as headquarters for the Licking County shredding program. The massive amount of records once stored in the building has been dramatically reduced since Katy Klettlinger was hired as the county's first Records Center coordinator in 2008.
The former jail was home to the Licking County Veterans Service Commission from the early 1990s until 2005.
In 1998, the late Howard LeFevre, founder of The Works, proposed the sandstone building be turned into a museum for the Licking County Art Association, but estimated a cost of $4 million to $5 million to tear out the building's jail structures and interior stone walls.
The expense would be far less to prepare the building for a tourist use, however, Commissioner Doug Smith said, because most of the interior could remain intact.
The commissioners made repairs to the slate roof recently but have not spent much on the building in recent years.
"We don't want to expend any money on it until we determine the final use for it," Smith said.
Saturday, May 14, 2011
Friday, May 13, 2011
MAY 2011 UPDATE FROM LICKING COUNTY COMMISSIONER TIM BUBB
Information on positive things happening in Licking County…
This Sunday afternoon (May 15th) you are invited to an Open House to view and celebrate the completion of the $3-million local Salvation Army renovation project.
Located at 250 East Main Street in Newark the facility has a new and expanded homeless shelter so that more homeless families have a home. The remodeled soup kitchen, in conjunction with the Food Pantry Network, is now serving meals to needy people every day. And the interior facilities have been renovated including classrooms so that at-risk children have a place to go after school.
You are invited to bring your family and friends as well, to celebrate the dedication of this expanded and renovated facility. The dedication ceremony begins at 3:00pm, and open house tours continue until 5:00pm.
Local Senior Citizens Recognized…
This past Wednesday these five outstand people were honored by induction into the Licking County Senior Citizens Hall of Fame in a ceremony held at the Sharon Brook facility in north Newark…
John and Annalou Campbell of Heath - Lucy Ann Muncy of Pataskala - Roy Wells of Heath – and Ronnie Vickers of Newark.
Next Wednesday, May 18th, John and Annalou Campbell will be recognized with induction as the 2011 Licking County representatives at the 36th annual Central Ohio Senior Citizens Hall of Fame Ceremony at the Martin Janis Center in Columbus.
They will join nominees from Delaware, Fairfield, Fayette, Franklin, Madison, Pickaway and Union Counties. John is retired from Denison University and Annalou from Granville Exempted Village Schools. Married for 60-years, they have two sons, John David and Duane Lee.
I am joined by Commissioners Brad Feightner and Doug Smith, in congratulating the Campbells for their dual honor, as well as Lucy Ann, Roy and Ronnie for their local recognition.
Orange Barrel Advisory for this year and next…
Here is a list of eleven major State road and bridge projects in Licking County in 2011 and 2012. This information is courtesy of ODOT Division 5 Deputy Director Joe Rutherford…
1. Some $8.6-million will be spent to resurface Interstate 70 between State Route 158 and the Franklin County line. To minimize impact of traffic the paving will be done at night beginning this July 15th and concluding by the end of October 2011.
2. Improvements will begin on June 15th in Johnstown Village at the intersection of US Route 62 and State Route 37, the major downtown interchange. Turn lanes will be made longer and signals upgraded. This project will be done by the end of this October or sooner. This cost is some $830-thousand.
3. Major improvements are set of the intersection of State Route 16 at Cedar Street in east Newark. The bridges will be redecked and the ramps improved, as well, at a cost of some $2.2-million. This work begins this June 15th and completed on or before the end of September 2012.
4. Around June 15th the long awaited median improvement project on State Route 79 in Heath will begin. This year and next the public will see a wider road, with a center median and upgraded signals. The cost is $4.1-million. The project, in phases, will be complete by the end of October 2012.
5. The State will resurface State Route 13 from Waterworks Road in Newark to Utica at a cost of $3.8-million. The work will begin around the end of August and conclude by the end of this October.
6. Beginning in Licking County at I-70, State Route 37 will be resurfaced south into Fairfield County concluding at the Lancaster City limits. The cost is $3.7-million. This will be a September and October late summer 2011 project.
7. In Licking County and throughout ODOT District 5, in 2011, some $4.4-million will be spent on guardrail updates, pavements markings and raised markers, lighting, interstate mowing, crack sealing and traffic signal upgrades.
8. In the summer of 2012 the State Route 158 overpass at I-70 will be widened to accommodate future widening of I-70 to three lanes in each direction. The cost is $7.7-million.
9. Three Licking County bridge replacement projects are planned for 2012. State Route 586 at Pleasant Valley Run ($370-thousand), McIntosh Road (Township Road 155) west of Headley’s Mill Road ($444-thousand), and County Road 311 Hopewell ($933-thousand).
10. In 2012 a $382-thousand ‘safety’ related intersection improvement is planned for the intersection of Blacks and Watkins Roads. This much needed project will begin around July 15th of next year.
11. In Newark City two major resurfacing projects are planned for the spring of 2012. West Main Street west from 3rd Street downtown to 21st Street. And Granville Road west from 5th to 21st Streets.
Note – When traveling check first at the Buckeye Traffic website …www.buckeyetraffic.org - which provides up-to-date information on road conditions, traffic construction and other activity affecting roadways.
A note from Licking County Dog Warden John Silva…
With the assistance of volunteer Shelley McKee (Pataskala), who is with the rescue group Stop the Suffering, the Licking County Animal Shelter has received a grant of one-thousand doses of vaccine to prevent canine influenza virus. This is the second grant of vaccine from the group Petfinder and it will be used to prevent this contagious disease that spreads easily from dog to dog, especially those in close proximity. This is the equivalent of a $2-thousand donation and will be used throughout 2011 at the County Shelter.
Dog flu is a growing problem in the U.S. It is relatively new and most dogs have not built up immunity to the disease. It has been confirmed in 35-states and is difficult to diagnose. Dogs are contagious before showing symptoms. Virtually all dogs exposed to the virus will become infected, and some will get more serious infections, such as pneumonia, which can be fatal.
For information on Petfinder (web searches) and information on how to adopt friendly healthy dogs and cats from the Licking County Animal Shelter, visit the Animal Shelter Online link at the County website www.lcounty.com
Environmental Events Reminder…
The annual Licking County Appliance and Tire Collection will be held THIS Saturday, May 14th.
The location will be the Licking County Highway Garage at 771 East Main Street in Newark from 8:00am till 12 Noon.
The cost to drop off tires is $5 per passenger or light truck tire, $10 for per large semi tires, $25 per for tractor/farm equipment tires, and an addition charge of $1 for each tire on a rim. The cost for appliances is $10 for a Freon based unit, and $5 each for all others. *Note – NO computers or televisions accepted! Transactions are CASH ONLY.
Also, the Regional CFLP Solid Waste District sponsored Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Day is held in Licking County only every other year due to the expense of the event, and this is our off year. However HHW events will be held in neighboring Fairfield and Perry Counties this year. The dates are August 20th in Lancaster and September 17th in new Lexington. If you would like details call the CFLP Solid Waste District Office at 740-349-6308.
Thanks for taking time to read this May 2011 Commissioner Update.
If you would like to receive this monthly Commissioner Update directly to your e-mail address, simply drop me a note at timbubb@roadrunner.com to be added to my list.
I can also be e-mailed at tbubb@lcounty.com, and my desk phone number at the Commissioner’s Office is 740-670-5118.
Best Regards…Commissioner Tim Bubb
This Sunday afternoon (May 15th) you are invited to an Open House to view and celebrate the completion of the $3-million local Salvation Army renovation project.
Located at 250 East Main Street in Newark the facility has a new and expanded homeless shelter so that more homeless families have a home. The remodeled soup kitchen, in conjunction with the Food Pantry Network, is now serving meals to needy people every day. And the interior facilities have been renovated including classrooms so that at-risk children have a place to go after school.
You are invited to bring your family and friends as well, to celebrate the dedication of this expanded and renovated facility. The dedication ceremony begins at 3:00pm, and open house tours continue until 5:00pm.
Local Senior Citizens Recognized…
This past Wednesday these five outstand people were honored by induction into the Licking County Senior Citizens Hall of Fame in a ceremony held at the Sharon Brook facility in north Newark…
John and Annalou Campbell of Heath - Lucy Ann Muncy of Pataskala - Roy Wells of Heath – and Ronnie Vickers of Newark.
Next Wednesday, May 18th, John and Annalou Campbell will be recognized with induction as the 2011 Licking County representatives at the 36th annual Central Ohio Senior Citizens Hall of Fame Ceremony at the Martin Janis Center in Columbus.
They will join nominees from Delaware, Fairfield, Fayette, Franklin, Madison, Pickaway and Union Counties. John is retired from Denison University and Annalou from Granville Exempted Village Schools. Married for 60-years, they have two sons, John David and Duane Lee.
I am joined by Commissioners Brad Feightner and Doug Smith, in congratulating the Campbells for their dual honor, as well as Lucy Ann, Roy and Ronnie for their local recognition.
Orange Barrel Advisory for this year and next…
Here is a list of eleven major State road and bridge projects in Licking County in 2011 and 2012. This information is courtesy of ODOT Division 5 Deputy Director Joe Rutherford…
1. Some $8.6-million will be spent to resurface Interstate 70 between State Route 158 and the Franklin County line. To minimize impact of traffic the paving will be done at night beginning this July 15th and concluding by the end of October 2011.
2. Improvements will begin on June 15th in Johnstown Village at the intersection of US Route 62 and State Route 37, the major downtown interchange. Turn lanes will be made longer and signals upgraded. This project will be done by the end of this October or sooner. This cost is some $830-thousand.
3. Major improvements are set of the intersection of State Route 16 at Cedar Street in east Newark. The bridges will be redecked and the ramps improved, as well, at a cost of some $2.2-million. This work begins this June 15th and completed on or before the end of September 2012.
4. Around June 15th the long awaited median improvement project on State Route 79 in Heath will begin. This year and next the public will see a wider road, with a center median and upgraded signals. The cost is $4.1-million. The project, in phases, will be complete by the end of October 2012.
5. The State will resurface State Route 13 from Waterworks Road in Newark to Utica at a cost of $3.8-million. The work will begin around the end of August and conclude by the end of this October.
6. Beginning in Licking County at I-70, State Route 37 will be resurfaced south into Fairfield County concluding at the Lancaster City limits. The cost is $3.7-million. This will be a September and October late summer 2011 project.
7. In Licking County and throughout ODOT District 5, in 2011, some $4.4-million will be spent on guardrail updates, pavements markings and raised markers, lighting, interstate mowing, crack sealing and traffic signal upgrades.
8. In the summer of 2012 the State Route 158 overpass at I-70 will be widened to accommodate future widening of I-70 to three lanes in each direction. The cost is $7.7-million.
9. Three Licking County bridge replacement projects are planned for 2012. State Route 586 at Pleasant Valley Run ($370-thousand), McIntosh Road (Township Road 155) west of Headley’s Mill Road ($444-thousand), and County Road 311 Hopewell ($933-thousand).
10. In 2012 a $382-thousand ‘safety’ related intersection improvement is planned for the intersection of Blacks and Watkins Roads. This much needed project will begin around July 15th of next year.
11. In Newark City two major resurfacing projects are planned for the spring of 2012. West Main Street west from 3rd Street downtown to 21st Street. And Granville Road west from 5th to 21st Streets.
Note – When traveling check first at the Buckeye Traffic website …www.buckeyetraffic.org - which provides up-to-date information on road conditions, traffic construction and other activity affecting roadways.
A note from Licking County Dog Warden John Silva…
With the assistance of volunteer Shelley McKee (Pataskala), who is with the rescue group Stop the Suffering, the Licking County Animal Shelter has received a grant of one-thousand doses of vaccine to prevent canine influenza virus. This is the second grant of vaccine from the group Petfinder and it will be used to prevent this contagious disease that spreads easily from dog to dog, especially those in close proximity. This is the equivalent of a $2-thousand donation and will be used throughout 2011 at the County Shelter.
Dog flu is a growing problem in the U.S. It is relatively new and most dogs have not built up immunity to the disease. It has been confirmed in 35-states and is difficult to diagnose. Dogs are contagious before showing symptoms. Virtually all dogs exposed to the virus will become infected, and some will get more serious infections, such as pneumonia, which can be fatal.
For information on Petfinder (web searches) and information on how to adopt friendly healthy dogs and cats from the Licking County Animal Shelter, visit the Animal Shelter Online link at the County website www.lcounty.com
Environmental Events Reminder…
The annual Licking County Appliance and Tire Collection will be held THIS Saturday, May 14th.
The location will be the Licking County Highway Garage at 771 East Main Street in Newark from 8:00am till 12 Noon.
The cost to drop off tires is $5 per passenger or light truck tire, $10 for per large semi tires, $25 per for tractor/farm equipment tires, and an addition charge of $1 for each tire on a rim. The cost for appliances is $10 for a Freon based unit, and $5 each for all others. *Note – NO computers or televisions accepted! Transactions are CASH ONLY.
Also, the Regional CFLP Solid Waste District sponsored Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Day is held in Licking County only every other year due to the expense of the event, and this is our off year. However HHW events will be held in neighboring Fairfield and Perry Counties this year. The dates are August 20th in Lancaster and September 17th in new Lexington. If you would like details call the CFLP Solid Waste District Office at 740-349-6308.
Thanks for taking time to read this May 2011 Commissioner Update.
If you would like to receive this monthly Commissioner Update directly to your e-mail address, simply drop me a note at timbubb@roadrunner.com to be added to my list.
I can also be e-mailed at tbubb@lcounty.com, and my desk phone number at the Commissioner’s Office is 740-670-5118.
Best Regards…Commissioner Tim Bubb
Wednesday, April 27, 2011
APRIL 2011 LICKING COUNTY COMMISSIONER TIM BUBB UPDATE
Information on positive things happening in Licking County…
Licking County Surplus on GovDeals…
Five years ago, in an effort to maximize returns on the sale of surplus items and make the process more available to larger numbers of customers, the Licking County Commissioners eliminated the annual on-site surplus auction and affiliated with the on-line service GovDeals.com. It has been a successful and productive relationship. This is a government surplus equivalent of the popular on-line sales services such as Ebay.
Each month, between the 1st and the 15th, any and all Licking County surplus items hit the on-line auction block with photos and descriptions. We sell everything from confiscated and surplus vehicles to excess office furniture, and from old tools and equipment to items obtained through law enforcement investigations. Just about anything that can be legally sold on-line is offered, from time to time, on GovDeals.com . It is interesting to note that in the five year history of this Licking County on-line surplus auction we have recorded total sales of over $385-thousand (gross sales), and this year in just three months nearly $18-thousand in sales have been recorded. The money from this on-going surplus sale goes back to fund current operations.
So starting May 1st feel free to check out the latest Licking County offerings. Visit www.GovDeals.com and search by item category, or go to advanced search and click on Ohio and then Licking County. Just like with Ebay the high bidder is notified after the auction deadline, and the transaction is handled quickly and efficiently by our staff. We have had hundreds of satisfied customers from around this area and around the nation over the past five years, so feel free to check it out.
Enviromental Notes…
On Thursday, May 12th at 6:00pm a fund raising dinner/event will be held to benefit the Hartford Fair Natural Resources Area. This ‘Locally Grown and Gathered Meal’ will be held at the Babcock Building on the Hartford Fairgrounds and will cost $15 per person. C-TEC Culinary Arts students and Chef Jessica Karr will prepare this interesting meal, and musicians from Johnstown High School will perform. The County Commissioners will be in attendance, and they urge you to consider supporting this event. To obtain tickets call 740-670-5330 or e-mail ldeeds@lcounty.com .
The annual Licking County Appliance and Tire Collection will be held Saturday, May 14th. The location will again be the Licking County Highway Garage at 771 East Main Street in Newark from 8:00am till 12 Noon. The cost to drop off tires is $5 per passenger or light truck tire, $10 for per large semi tires, $25 per for tractor/farm equipment tires, and an addition charge of $1 for each tire on a rim. The cost for appliances is $10 for a freon based unit, and $5 each for all others. *Note – NO computers or televisions accepted! Transactions are CASH ONLY.
The Regional CFLP Solid Waste District sponsored Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Day is held in Licking County only every other year due to the expense of the event, and this is our off year. However HHW events will be held in neighboring Fairfield and Perry Counties this year. The dates are August 20th in Lancaster and September 17th in new Lexington. If you would like details call the CFLP Solid Waste District Office at 740-349-6308.
Finally, the Licking County Recycling and Litter Prevention Department offers a handy brochure called “Your Guide To Recycling in Licking County”. To obtain a copy call the Litter and Recycling office at 740-670-5125 or visit them on the Licking County website www.lcounty.com .
Student Government Day a Success…
Last Thursday, April 21st the County Commissioners again sponsored ‘Licking County Student Government Day’. This special event is a unique experience for a group of local high school junior and senior students to shadow public officials for part of a day to learn in detail how County Government functions well to provide a wide variety of services critical to the local quality of life.
Here is the list of public officials and the students they hosted…County Commissioners Tim Bubb, Brad Feightner and Doug Smith, Human Resoucres Director Sue Wadley and Water/Wastewater Director Kevin Eby with Victoria Plehn and Justin Magana both of Licking Heights; Sheriff Randy Thorp with Stephen Burch of C-TEC and Michael Hawkins of Newark Catholic; Board of Elections Director Sue Penick with Alison Waters of C-TEC; Child Support Enforcement Agency Attorney John Whittington with Allison Colvin of Johnstown; EMA Director Jeff Walker with Matthew Chapman of Johnstown and Armando Jaimes of Southwest Licking; Records and Archives Director Katy Klettlinger with Danielle Chirdon of Lakewood; Cooperative Extension Service Director Howard Siegrist with Dylan Justis of Lakewood; Auditor Michael Smith with Bryant Haren of Licking Valley; Soil & Water District Administrator Jim Kiracofe with Jeremiah Moore of Licking Valley; Treasurer Scott Ryan with Anna O’Reilly of Newark Catholic; Clerk of Courts Gary Walters with Tia Dewault of Newark; Municipal Court Clerk Marcia Phelps with Amanda Huff of Newark; and Recorder Bryan Long with Brianna Nelson of North Fork.
Thanks to the Newark and Newark-Heath Rotary Clubs for providing lunch for the students and their hosts
A Few Other Notes…
Thanks to Great Licking County Convention and Visitors Bureau and Executive Director Susan Fryer for her work on an excellent regional sporting event that will bring thousands of dollars into our community this weekend. The 3rd annual Buckeye Cup Soccer Tournament will be held at the NASA Soccer Facility in north Newark. It is expected to bring some 685 participants from a five state region. And the best news is all local hotels are sold out this weekend and our restaurants will be busy as well. Please join the Commissioners in welcoming these families to Licking County as you see them around town this weekend – we want them to return again and again to Licking County.
Next month Licking County Water/Wastewater Director Kevin Eby and the Licking County Commissions will receive, on behalf of the people of Licking County, the 2011 Public Officials Award for OWDA for Southeastern Ohio. This is in recognition for both the planning work underway to bring sanitary sewer service to the community of Jacksontown, and the successful effort to finalize a regional contract to allow for the provision of water and sewer services along the busy and developing State Route 161 corridor.
This Saturday (4/30) is National Prescription Drug Take Back Day from 10:00am to 2:00pm and drop off sites have been established throughout Central Ohio This is a great time to clean out you medicine cabinet of unused and out dated prescription drugs, and over the counter medications. The drop-off locations in Licking County are the Newark Walmart at 1315 North 21st Street and the Pataskala Police Department at 430 South Main Street in Pataskala.
Dawes Arboretum (Route 13 south of Newark/heath) will celebrate Arbor Day this Saturday, April 30th, always a great family event! For details call 800-443-2937 or visit www.dawesarb.org .
On Wednesday, May 4th Licking County will be part of the Sesquicentennial Celebration of the National Road. According to Commissioner Doug Smith this “Caravan of Bells’ will be a parade of vehicles, including many vintage cars and trucks, that will travel through Ohio on Wednesday. They will be carrying special bells commemorating this 150th celebration from each of the states that host the National Road. On May 4th the Caravan will be bringing the bells from Illinois and Indiana, and will be joined by the Ohio bell. The public is encouraged to watch the Caravan, which will enter Licking County around 2:00pm, traveling from west to east. The parade will stop at National Trail Raceway (between Kirkersville and Luray), and the public is invited to meet the participants there shortly after 2:00pm. Local supporters are welcome to join the Caravan in their drive across Licking County. They will leave the Raceway shortly after 2:30pm, and will be passing through Hebron, Jacksontown, Brownsville and other areas headed east. The group will leave Licking County around 3:00pm enroute to a photo op event on the Y-Bridge in Zanesville. The following day the caravan will travel into West Virginia and arrive at the Route 40 starting point in Cumberland Maryland on Saturday, where a major celebration is planned. Commissioner Smith will be in the caravan in his 50’s historic GMC Truck, and invites local residents to view and/or take part in the Caravan, and help celebrate Licking County’s part in the history of U.S. Route 40.
On Thursday, May 5th at midday there will be events in downtown Newark as part of the National Day of Prayer. Citizens who would like to participate are welcome to attend on the service on the steps of Newark City Hall (40 West Main Street). Then at 1:00pm the Commissioners will be at the Gazebo on the public square in downtown Newark for the annual “Prayer Around The Square” event.
On Saturday May 7th the Buckeye Vintage Haulers Chapter of the American Truck Historical Society will sponsor the 16th Annual BVH Truck Show at Coughlin Automotive in north Newark at 21st Street and Mt. Vernon Road. Registration is from 8:00am to 10:00am, and the show is from 9:00am to 4:00 featuring Classic Trucks, Antique Trucks, Restored Trucks, Antique Tractors, Historical Trucks and more.
Thanks for taking time to read this April 2011 Commissioner Update and for the sake of the farmers let’s hope for a dryer month of May!
Feel free to forward in any direction you would like and let me know the e-mail address of anyone who would like to be included on my Update Newsletter list.
Also, visit my website … TimBubb.com, where I post updates on my personal blog.
I can also be e-mailed at tbubb@lcounty.com, and my desk phone number at the Commissioner’s Office is 740-670-5118.
Best Regards…Tim Bubb
Licking County Surplus on GovDeals…
Five years ago, in an effort to maximize returns on the sale of surplus items and make the process more available to larger numbers of customers, the Licking County Commissioners eliminated the annual on-site surplus auction and affiliated with the on-line service GovDeals.com. It has been a successful and productive relationship. This is a government surplus equivalent of the popular on-line sales services such as Ebay.
Each month, between the 1st and the 15th, any and all Licking County surplus items hit the on-line auction block with photos and descriptions. We sell everything from confiscated and surplus vehicles to excess office furniture, and from old tools and equipment to items obtained through law enforcement investigations. Just about anything that can be legally sold on-line is offered, from time to time, on GovDeals.com . It is interesting to note that in the five year history of this Licking County on-line surplus auction we have recorded total sales of over $385-thousand (gross sales), and this year in just three months nearly $18-thousand in sales have been recorded. The money from this on-going surplus sale goes back to fund current operations.
So starting May 1st feel free to check out the latest Licking County offerings. Visit www.GovDeals.com and search by item category, or go to advanced search and click on Ohio and then Licking County. Just like with Ebay the high bidder is notified after the auction deadline, and the transaction is handled quickly and efficiently by our staff. We have had hundreds of satisfied customers from around this area and around the nation over the past five years, so feel free to check it out.
Enviromental Notes…
On Thursday, May 12th at 6:00pm a fund raising dinner/event will be held to benefit the Hartford Fair Natural Resources Area. This ‘Locally Grown and Gathered Meal’ will be held at the Babcock Building on the Hartford Fairgrounds and will cost $15 per person. C-TEC Culinary Arts students and Chef Jessica Karr will prepare this interesting meal, and musicians from Johnstown High School will perform. The County Commissioners will be in attendance, and they urge you to consider supporting this event. To obtain tickets call 740-670-5330 or e-mail ldeeds@lcounty.com .
The annual Licking County Appliance and Tire Collection will be held Saturday, May 14th. The location will again be the Licking County Highway Garage at 771 East Main Street in Newark from 8:00am till 12 Noon. The cost to drop off tires is $5 per passenger or light truck tire, $10 for per large semi tires, $25 per for tractor/farm equipment tires, and an addition charge of $1 for each tire on a rim. The cost for appliances is $10 for a freon based unit, and $5 each for all others. *Note – NO computers or televisions accepted! Transactions are CASH ONLY.
The Regional CFLP Solid Waste District sponsored Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Day is held in Licking County only every other year due to the expense of the event, and this is our off year. However HHW events will be held in neighboring Fairfield and Perry Counties this year. The dates are August 20th in Lancaster and September 17th in new Lexington. If you would like details call the CFLP Solid Waste District Office at 740-349-6308.
Finally, the Licking County Recycling and Litter Prevention Department offers a handy brochure called “Your Guide To Recycling in Licking County”. To obtain a copy call the Litter and Recycling office at 740-670-5125 or visit them on the Licking County website www.lcounty.com .
Student Government Day a Success…
Last Thursday, April 21st the County Commissioners again sponsored ‘Licking County Student Government Day’. This special event is a unique experience for a group of local high school junior and senior students to shadow public officials for part of a day to learn in detail how County Government functions well to provide a wide variety of services critical to the local quality of life.
Here is the list of public officials and the students they hosted…County Commissioners Tim Bubb, Brad Feightner and Doug Smith, Human Resoucres Director Sue Wadley and Water/Wastewater Director Kevin Eby with Victoria Plehn and Justin Magana both of Licking Heights; Sheriff Randy Thorp with Stephen Burch of C-TEC and Michael Hawkins of Newark Catholic; Board of Elections Director Sue Penick with Alison Waters of C-TEC; Child Support Enforcement Agency Attorney John Whittington with Allison Colvin of Johnstown; EMA Director Jeff Walker with Matthew Chapman of Johnstown and Armando Jaimes of Southwest Licking; Records and Archives Director Katy Klettlinger with Danielle Chirdon of Lakewood; Cooperative Extension Service Director Howard Siegrist with Dylan Justis of Lakewood; Auditor Michael Smith with Bryant Haren of Licking Valley; Soil & Water District Administrator Jim Kiracofe with Jeremiah Moore of Licking Valley; Treasurer Scott Ryan with Anna O’Reilly of Newark Catholic; Clerk of Courts Gary Walters with Tia Dewault of Newark; Municipal Court Clerk Marcia Phelps with Amanda Huff of Newark; and Recorder Bryan Long with Brianna Nelson of North Fork.
Thanks to the Newark and Newark-Heath Rotary Clubs for providing lunch for the students and their hosts
A Few Other Notes…
Thanks to Great Licking County Convention and Visitors Bureau and Executive Director Susan Fryer for her work on an excellent regional sporting event that will bring thousands of dollars into our community this weekend. The 3rd annual Buckeye Cup Soccer Tournament will be held at the NASA Soccer Facility in north Newark. It is expected to bring some 685 participants from a five state region. And the best news is all local hotels are sold out this weekend and our restaurants will be busy as well. Please join the Commissioners in welcoming these families to Licking County as you see them around town this weekend – we want them to return again and again to Licking County.
Next month Licking County Water/Wastewater Director Kevin Eby and the Licking County Commissions will receive, on behalf of the people of Licking County, the 2011 Public Officials Award for OWDA for Southeastern Ohio. This is in recognition for both the planning work underway to bring sanitary sewer service to the community of Jacksontown, and the successful effort to finalize a regional contract to allow for the provision of water and sewer services along the busy and developing State Route 161 corridor.
This Saturday (4/30) is National Prescription Drug Take Back Day from 10:00am to 2:00pm and drop off sites have been established throughout Central Ohio This is a great time to clean out you medicine cabinet of unused and out dated prescription drugs, and over the counter medications. The drop-off locations in Licking County are the Newark Walmart at 1315 North 21st Street and the Pataskala Police Department at 430 South Main Street in Pataskala.
Dawes Arboretum (Route 13 south of Newark/heath) will celebrate Arbor Day this Saturday, April 30th, always a great family event! For details call 800-443-2937 or visit www.dawesarb.org .
On Wednesday, May 4th Licking County will be part of the Sesquicentennial Celebration of the National Road. According to Commissioner Doug Smith this “Caravan of Bells’ will be a parade of vehicles, including many vintage cars and trucks, that will travel through Ohio on Wednesday. They will be carrying special bells commemorating this 150th celebration from each of the states that host the National Road. On May 4th the Caravan will be bringing the bells from Illinois and Indiana, and will be joined by the Ohio bell. The public is encouraged to watch the Caravan, which will enter Licking County around 2:00pm, traveling from west to east. The parade will stop at National Trail Raceway (between Kirkersville and Luray), and the public is invited to meet the participants there shortly after 2:00pm. Local supporters are welcome to join the Caravan in their drive across Licking County. They will leave the Raceway shortly after 2:30pm, and will be passing through Hebron, Jacksontown, Brownsville and other areas headed east. The group will leave Licking County around 3:00pm enroute to a photo op event on the Y-Bridge in Zanesville. The following day the caravan will travel into West Virginia and arrive at the Route 40 starting point in Cumberland Maryland on Saturday, where a major celebration is planned. Commissioner Smith will be in the caravan in his 50’s historic GMC Truck, and invites local residents to view and/or take part in the Caravan, and help celebrate Licking County’s part in the history of U.S. Route 40.
On Thursday, May 5th at midday there will be events in downtown Newark as part of the National Day of Prayer. Citizens who would like to participate are welcome to attend on the service on the steps of Newark City Hall (40 West Main Street). Then at 1:00pm the Commissioners will be at the Gazebo on the public square in downtown Newark for the annual “Prayer Around The Square” event.
On Saturday May 7th the Buckeye Vintage Haulers Chapter of the American Truck Historical Society will sponsor the 16th Annual BVH Truck Show at Coughlin Automotive in north Newark at 21st Street and Mt. Vernon Road. Registration is from 8:00am to 10:00am, and the show is from 9:00am to 4:00 featuring Classic Trucks, Antique Trucks, Restored Trucks, Antique Tractors, Historical Trucks and more.
Thanks for taking time to read this April 2011 Commissioner Update and for the sake of the farmers let’s hope for a dryer month of May!
Feel free to forward in any direction you would like and let me know the e-mail address of anyone who would like to be included on my Update Newsletter list.
Also, visit my website … TimBubb.com, where I post updates on my personal blog.
I can also be e-mailed at tbubb@lcounty.com, and my desk phone number at the Commissioner’s Office is 740-670-5118.
Best Regards…Tim Bubb
Sunday, March 27, 2011
MARCH 2011 LICKING COUNTY COMMISSIONER TIM BUBB UPDATE
Information on positive things happening in Licking County…
As I usually do, let me start this monthly update with some thoughts on jobs. I am specifically sharing unemployment numbers and ‘workforce development’ information, which are related and most important elements in economic development.
After the predictable January surge, we are pleased to see unemployment numbers in Ohio and Licking County drop in February. In Licking County the unemployment number fell from 9.6 to 9.2-percent, with the number of unemployed people declining from 8,000 to 7,600. Licking County’s rate remains below the state average of 9.8-percent, and lower than 70 of Ohio’s 88 counties. Reports of continued local hiring should mean a continued steady decline in those numbers.
Note – Employment assistance and opportunities are available at the County operated Opportunity Links, 998 East Main Street in Newark’s Eastland Shopping Center. Check online for job information at www.ohiomeansjobs.com or www.theonestop.org
As the Licking County Economic Development Department and our partners in the community continue to tout this area as a desirable place to locate and/or expand operations, it is important we realize that ‘workforce development’ and training opportunities in our County are among our major assets. In his current blog, Rick Platt of the Newark, Heath, and Licking County Port Authority explains why the issue of training in critical and needed areas will have a lot to do with our success as a region and a nation…
The Workforce Crunch Looms
Governor John Kasich is quoted in The Dispatch this past week saying there are 80,000 "job vacancies" in Ohio.
The state's job seeker website, OhioMeansJobs.com, has over 60,000 open jobs advertised. In fact, that same website proclaims more than 1,000 open job postings within 20 miles of Newark.
Jefferson County, Ohio's economic development guy was just quoted in a Steubenville Herald Star article as saying that, despite an unemployment rate over 12%, "several employers in the county are commenting on the difficulty of finding skilled workers for jobs."
What's going on here?
Evidence is building.
Despite higher-than-anyone-wants unemployment rates, Ohio is experiencing the early throws of a workforce crunch. Despite a still-mending economy, we are on the edge of a workforce development challenge of immense proportions.
The Class of '65 turns 65 next year. I've cited this stat before in this column, but it bears repeating. An Ohio Dept. of Development stat shows that the number of Ohioans who will turn 65 in 2012 will average 114 a day. That's 500% more than the 2010 average of 19 a day.
Suffice to say there are not that many workforce-entering age birthdays being celebrated on average at that same rate. Thus, the net loss to the workforce pool is predictably large. That's a workforce crunch.
Ohio is not alone in this workforce crunch. This demographic fact is already starting to have an impact all over the country.
Employers will demand an answer and the places that provide the best answers will be the winners in economic development.
Licking County's answer is forming, but our mission is clear: no job goes unfilled.
The C-TEC Manufacturing Certification is part of the answer. C-TEC will soon graduate a class of people ready to fill manufacturer's workforce needs with a manufacturing certification in hand to prove their readiness.
The COTC new W-DIC center is another part of the answer. COTC promises companies can build their own workforce with a tailored curriculum and, even, college credit-worthy training.
Workenomics, the little-known wing of the Chamber that sees the collaboration of community economic development and workforce development efforts, is working on a campaign to expand the pool of available workers for our employers to tap and improving workforce data available for site selectors.
Other items…
This past week the Commissioners attended the annual Developmental Disabilities Awareness Day Luncheon and Awards Ceremony at the E.S. Weiant Center in Newark. The following outstanding individuals and organizations were recognized…
2011 Jane Marsh Disability Awareness Individual Award went to Connie Zeune of Pataskala.
2011 Jane Marsh Disability Awareness Business Award went to Emmanuel Church of Etna.
2011 LICCO Customer of the Year Award went to THK Manufacturing of America, Hebron Plant.
2011 Above and Beyond Service Award went to John Gutmann of Heath and the Employees of Famous Supply Company of Newark.
Congratulations!
Recently State Officials with the Department of Rehabilitation and Corrections (DRC) arrived here to announce the closing of the very successful Community Based Corrections Facility (CBCF), a small 60-bed/training and incarceration facility in Newark. The CBCF has been an excellent resource, for judges here and in the region, to turn around the lives of ‘first time’ non-violent offenders. The closing appears to be state budget related. We are working with the Board of the Facility, our judges, law enforcement, and others to explore options for this state run facility that will close at mid year. This facility sits on County owned land at 119 East Main Street.
A Licking County factoid…
The County Engineer is responsible for maintaining 421.67-miles of County roads this year, an increase over the 2009 total of 409.9-miles. Much of the increase is related to new County roads assigned with the completion of the new State Route 161.
A few upcoming April dates and events to make note of…
On Wednesday morning, April 6th the Licking County Chamber of Commerce will sponsor a Breakfast & Roundtable Discussion’ with local leaders. There will be seven tables in this’ roundtable and interactive format’. The seven leaders, each hosting a table, will be myself, fellow Commissioner Doug Smith, County Recorder Bryan Long, County Planning Director Jerry Brems, County Auditor Mike Smith, County Coroner Dr. Robert Raker and County Engineer Tim Lollo. Breakfast is at 7:30am, the discussion from 8:30am-9:30am. The cost is $20 per person. Call the Chamber at 740-345-9757.
The evening of Thursday, April 7th the Licking County Sheep Improvement Committee will hold their annual Lamb Banquet. It begins at 6:30pm at the Highwater United Church of Christ. For details and tickets contact the OSU Extension Service at 740-760-5315, they are located at 771 East Main Street in Newark, Suite 103.
On Saturday, April 9th the Licking County Master Gardner group and the OSU Extension Service are sponsoring a ‘Master Gardner Conference’ at the Reese Center at the Newark Campus from 8:30am to 2:30pm. The cost is $8 in advance and $10 at the door. For details call 740-745-2333 or 740-344-6652.
As a conservative technique many residents are now considering ‘rain barrels’. They collect rain water and reduce runoff, downstream flooding and water pollution. Rain barrels provide a non-potable water supply for your plants and garden. If interested the Licking County Soil and Water Conservation District (LCSWCD) has excellent rain barrels for sale (finished) for $65 and (unplumbed) for $30. Licking SWCD is located at 771 East Main Street in Newark (740-670-5330).
Saturday, April 23rd at 8:00pm the local Heisey Wind Ensemble will perform their spring concert at the Reese Center on the Newark Campus. Under the direction of Dr. Russel Mikkelson the program will be “An Evening at Pops”. For details visit… www.heiseywindensemble.org
Dawes Arboretum (Route 13 south of Newark/heath) will celebrate Arbor Day on Saturday, April 30th, always a great family event! For details call 800-443-2937 or visit www.dawesarb.org
Thanks for taking time to read this March 2011 Commissioner Update.
Feel free to forward in any direction you would like and let me know the e-mail address of anyone who would like to be included on my Update Newsletter list.
Also, visit my website … TimBubb.com, where I post updates on my personal blog.
I can also be e-mailed at tbubb@lcounty.com, and my desk phone number at the Commissioner’s Office is 740-670-5118.
Best Regards…Tim Bubb
As I usually do, let me start this monthly update with some thoughts on jobs. I am specifically sharing unemployment numbers and ‘workforce development’ information, which are related and most important elements in economic development.
After the predictable January surge, we are pleased to see unemployment numbers in Ohio and Licking County drop in February. In Licking County the unemployment number fell from 9.6 to 9.2-percent, with the number of unemployed people declining from 8,000 to 7,600. Licking County’s rate remains below the state average of 9.8-percent, and lower than 70 of Ohio’s 88 counties. Reports of continued local hiring should mean a continued steady decline in those numbers.
Note – Employment assistance and opportunities are available at the County operated Opportunity Links, 998 East Main Street in Newark’s Eastland Shopping Center. Check online for job information at www.ohiomeansjobs.com or www.theonestop.org
As the Licking County Economic Development Department and our partners in the community continue to tout this area as a desirable place to locate and/or expand operations, it is important we realize that ‘workforce development’ and training opportunities in our County are among our major assets. In his current blog, Rick Platt of the Newark, Heath, and Licking County Port Authority explains why the issue of training in critical and needed areas will have a lot to do with our success as a region and a nation…
The Workforce Crunch Looms
Governor John Kasich is quoted in The Dispatch this past week saying there are 80,000 "job vacancies" in Ohio.
The state's job seeker website, OhioMeansJobs.com, has over 60,000 open jobs advertised. In fact, that same website proclaims more than 1,000 open job postings within 20 miles of Newark.
Jefferson County, Ohio's economic development guy was just quoted in a Steubenville Herald Star article as saying that, despite an unemployment rate over 12%, "several employers in the county are commenting on the difficulty of finding skilled workers for jobs."
What's going on here?
Evidence is building.
Despite higher-than-anyone-wants unemployment rates, Ohio is experiencing the early throws of a workforce crunch. Despite a still-mending economy, we are on the edge of a workforce development challenge of immense proportions.
The Class of '65 turns 65 next year. I've cited this stat before in this column, but it bears repeating. An Ohio Dept. of Development stat shows that the number of Ohioans who will turn 65 in 2012 will average 114 a day. That's 500% more than the 2010 average of 19 a day.
Suffice to say there are not that many workforce-entering age birthdays being celebrated on average at that same rate. Thus, the net loss to the workforce pool is predictably large. That's a workforce crunch.
Ohio is not alone in this workforce crunch. This demographic fact is already starting to have an impact all over the country.
Employers will demand an answer and the places that provide the best answers will be the winners in economic development.
Licking County's answer is forming, but our mission is clear: no job goes unfilled.
The C-TEC Manufacturing Certification is part of the answer. C-TEC will soon graduate a class of people ready to fill manufacturer's workforce needs with a manufacturing certification in hand to prove their readiness.
The COTC new W-DIC center is another part of the answer. COTC promises companies can build their own workforce with a tailored curriculum and, even, college credit-worthy training.
Workenomics, the little-known wing of the Chamber that sees the collaboration of community economic development and workforce development efforts, is working on a campaign to expand the pool of available workers for our employers to tap and improving workforce data available for site selectors.
Other items…
This past week the Commissioners attended the annual Developmental Disabilities Awareness Day Luncheon and Awards Ceremony at the E.S. Weiant Center in Newark. The following outstanding individuals and organizations were recognized…
2011 Jane Marsh Disability Awareness Individual Award went to Connie Zeune of Pataskala.
2011 Jane Marsh Disability Awareness Business Award went to Emmanuel Church of Etna.
2011 LICCO Customer of the Year Award went to THK Manufacturing of America, Hebron Plant.
2011 Above and Beyond Service Award went to John Gutmann of Heath and the Employees of Famous Supply Company of Newark.
Congratulations!
Recently State Officials with the Department of Rehabilitation and Corrections (DRC) arrived here to announce the closing of the very successful Community Based Corrections Facility (CBCF), a small 60-bed/training and incarceration facility in Newark. The CBCF has been an excellent resource, for judges here and in the region, to turn around the lives of ‘first time’ non-violent offenders. The closing appears to be state budget related. We are working with the Board of the Facility, our judges, law enforcement, and others to explore options for this state run facility that will close at mid year. This facility sits on County owned land at 119 East Main Street.
A Licking County factoid…
The County Engineer is responsible for maintaining 421.67-miles of County roads this year, an increase over the 2009 total of 409.9-miles. Much of the increase is related to new County roads assigned with the completion of the new State Route 161.
A few upcoming April dates and events to make note of…
On Wednesday morning, April 6th the Licking County Chamber of Commerce will sponsor a Breakfast & Roundtable Discussion’ with local leaders. There will be seven tables in this’ roundtable and interactive format’. The seven leaders, each hosting a table, will be myself, fellow Commissioner Doug Smith, County Recorder Bryan Long, County Planning Director Jerry Brems, County Auditor Mike Smith, County Coroner Dr. Robert Raker and County Engineer Tim Lollo. Breakfast is at 7:30am, the discussion from 8:30am-9:30am. The cost is $20 per person. Call the Chamber at 740-345-9757.
The evening of Thursday, April 7th the Licking County Sheep Improvement Committee will hold their annual Lamb Banquet. It begins at 6:30pm at the Highwater United Church of Christ. For details and tickets contact the OSU Extension Service at 740-760-5315, they are located at 771 East Main Street in Newark, Suite 103.
On Saturday, April 9th the Licking County Master Gardner group and the OSU Extension Service are sponsoring a ‘Master Gardner Conference’ at the Reese Center at the Newark Campus from 8:30am to 2:30pm. The cost is $8 in advance and $10 at the door. For details call 740-745-2333 or 740-344-6652.
As a conservative technique many residents are now considering ‘rain barrels’. They collect rain water and reduce runoff, downstream flooding and water pollution. Rain barrels provide a non-potable water supply for your plants and garden. If interested the Licking County Soil and Water Conservation District (LCSWCD) has excellent rain barrels for sale (finished) for $65 and (unplumbed) for $30. Licking SWCD is located at 771 East Main Street in Newark (740-670-5330).
Saturday, April 23rd at 8:00pm the local Heisey Wind Ensemble will perform their spring concert at the Reese Center on the Newark Campus. Under the direction of Dr. Russel Mikkelson the program will be “An Evening at Pops”. For details visit… www.heiseywindensemble.org
Dawes Arboretum (Route 13 south of Newark/heath) will celebrate Arbor Day on Saturday, April 30th, always a great family event! For details call 800-443-2937 or visit www.dawesarb.org
Thanks for taking time to read this March 2011 Commissioner Update.
Feel free to forward in any direction you would like and let me know the e-mail address of anyone who would like to be included on my Update Newsletter list.
Also, visit my website … TimBubb.com, where I post updates on my personal blog.
I can also be e-mailed at tbubb@lcounty.com, and my desk phone number at the Commissioner’s Office is 740-670-5118.
Best Regards…Tim Bubb
FEBRUARY 2011 LICKING COUNTY COMMISSIONER TIM BUBB UPDATE
A few quick notes on positive things happening in Licking County…
Economic Development, as always, is a major priority for the County. I am pleased to tell you that interest from business prospects continues to be strong and unemployment in the County continues to trend downward.
Here are three examples of local success. A combination of local incentives and a State Job Creation Tax Credit has resulted in the California based company, Catalina Tempering, now planning to open their eighth U.S. plant in Utica. Catalina’s $4-million investment in our County will create 50-jobs in the next three years at the former Holophane Plant.
Similar incentives have resulted in expansion and job growth for Momentive Performance Materials in the Newark Ohio Industrial Park in Union Township. Making binders, adhesives, coatings and ink resins for mostly international sales; Momentive, with some 245 workers, is expected to add some 20-jobs locally.
In the former Diebold Plant, in the same industrial Park as above, Polymera is setting up shop to manufacturer wood and polymer composites by mid year. Initially employing 6-people, they are expected to grow to 20 by year end and 60-employees within three years.
We continue to benefit from our excellent location here in Central Ohio and from the hard work of the County Development Team and our many community partners! Indeed for us – it is all about JOBS!
Allow me to share some great news on the financial management side for Licking County Government. The County Team including the Commissioners, Treasurer and Auditor recently participated in an exhaustive re-evaluation of the County’s credit worthiness by Moody’s Investors Service. Due to a balanced budget with appropriate reserves, excellent planning, and a growing and healthy local economy; Moody’s analysts determined the County will retain its favorable Aa2 bond rating, placing it among the best managed counties in the Midwest.
In a related note and taking advantage of this favorable rate, the County within two weeks will buy back three long term facility bonds, and consolidate them in a new unified bond offering of some $6.2-million. The refinancing will save local taxpayers some 2-percentage points, which translates into a $700-thousand savings in interest payments over the remaining 14-years of the bond.
The creation of the Licking County Building Code Department was a major success in its first year 2010. The transition from Newark City was seamless and the new department paid its own way and more. Now, with a year of experience behind this new and lean operation, the Commissioners decided to reduce fees and further benefit the county.
Beginning March 1st all building permit fees will be reduced three percent, benefitting projects of all sizes. In addition, the cost of permits for residential interior alterations, residential decks and porches, and detached unfinished residential accessory structures will be reduced to a standard permit fee of $25. Residential interior alterations include interior remodeling, electrical service replacements and upgrades, and re-roofing projects where new roof sheathing is required.
Communities served by County Building Code include all the townships, along with Granville, Hebron, Kirkersville, Pataskala, Utica, Heath, Newark, Johnstown and Buckeye Lake.
Let me add a quick word on the positive work that continues at the Licking County Department of Animal Control. The end of January ‘Dog-Tag-A-Thon’ promotion, in conjunction with Tri-County Auto, was a success and resulted in 15-dog adoptions, 5-dogs reunited with their families and an increase in dog tag sales for 2011.
Another adoption event is planned for the final weekend of February. It will be a ‘Cat-A-Thon’ at Complete Petmart, 597 Hebron Road, in the Southgate Shopping Center in Heath. Anyone interested in adopting one of a number of friendly cats is invited to stop by the store during regular hours Friday, Saturday and Sunday, February 25 thru 27. The only cost related to a cat adoption is for vaccinations and spay/neuter services. County staff and volunteers will man the event.
Remember to check Facebook and visit ‘Licking County Animal Shelter’. It is a great page to learn about animal adoption possibilities. It is important to note that Licking County is among the leaders in the state in helping stray animals find their way home, or finding new homes through adoption and rescue! And we couldn’t do it without the help of our volunteers and the numerous dedicated rescue groups!
Finally, any February summary of County activities must include a word or two about the recent investigations of paranormal activity at the County’s Historic Jail on South Third Street in downtown Newark.
Last fall we permitted three independent paranormal investigation groups, on different weekends, to look into reports of unexplained noises and other activity in the historic old lock-up that dates to 1889, and is now used to house the County’s Records Destruction Center.
In recent presentations they came forth with both audio and video evidence of unexplained paranormal happenings at the historic former jail. This information and a variety of ideas are part of a developing plan to work toward preservation and eventual restoration of the historic jail, and future uses such as a tourist attraction to ensure its viability in the decades ahead.
The Commissioners are committed to the preservation of this important public building and its local history. Anyone interested in serving on a task force to help “Save Our Jail” is welcome to call or e-mail and express your interest.
Thanks for taking time to read this February 2011 Commissioner Update. Feel free to forward in any direction you would like. Please advise by sending the e-mail address of anyone who would like to be included on my Update Newsletter list.
Also, feel free to visit my website … TimBubb.com, where I post updates on my personal blog.
I can also be e-mailed at tbubb@lcounty.com, and my desk phone number at the Commissioner’s Office is 740-670-5118.
Best Regards…Tim Bubb
Economic Development, as always, is a major priority for the County. I am pleased to tell you that interest from business prospects continues to be strong and unemployment in the County continues to trend downward.
Here are three examples of local success. A combination of local incentives and a State Job Creation Tax Credit has resulted in the California based company, Catalina Tempering, now planning to open their eighth U.S. plant in Utica. Catalina’s $4-million investment in our County will create 50-jobs in the next three years at the former Holophane Plant.
Similar incentives have resulted in expansion and job growth for Momentive Performance Materials in the Newark Ohio Industrial Park in Union Township. Making binders, adhesives, coatings and ink resins for mostly international sales; Momentive, with some 245 workers, is expected to add some 20-jobs locally.
In the former Diebold Plant, in the same industrial Park as above, Polymera is setting up shop to manufacturer wood and polymer composites by mid year. Initially employing 6-people, they are expected to grow to 20 by year end and 60-employees within three years.
We continue to benefit from our excellent location here in Central Ohio and from the hard work of the County Development Team and our many community partners! Indeed for us – it is all about JOBS!
Allow me to share some great news on the financial management side for Licking County Government. The County Team including the Commissioners, Treasurer and Auditor recently participated in an exhaustive re-evaluation of the County’s credit worthiness by Moody’s Investors Service. Due to a balanced budget with appropriate reserves, excellent planning, and a growing and healthy local economy; Moody’s analysts determined the County will retain its favorable Aa2 bond rating, placing it among the best managed counties in the Midwest.
In a related note and taking advantage of this favorable rate, the County within two weeks will buy back three long term facility bonds, and consolidate them in a new unified bond offering of some $6.2-million. The refinancing will save local taxpayers some 2-percentage points, which translates into a $700-thousand savings in interest payments over the remaining 14-years of the bond.
The creation of the Licking County Building Code Department was a major success in its first year 2010. The transition from Newark City was seamless and the new department paid its own way and more. Now, with a year of experience behind this new and lean operation, the Commissioners decided to reduce fees and further benefit the county.
Beginning March 1st all building permit fees will be reduced three percent, benefitting projects of all sizes. In addition, the cost of permits for residential interior alterations, residential decks and porches, and detached unfinished residential accessory structures will be reduced to a standard permit fee of $25. Residential interior alterations include interior remodeling, electrical service replacements and upgrades, and re-roofing projects where new roof sheathing is required.
Communities served by County Building Code include all the townships, along with Granville, Hebron, Kirkersville, Pataskala, Utica, Heath, Newark, Johnstown and Buckeye Lake.
Let me add a quick word on the positive work that continues at the Licking County Department of Animal Control. The end of January ‘Dog-Tag-A-Thon’ promotion, in conjunction with Tri-County Auto, was a success and resulted in 15-dog adoptions, 5-dogs reunited with their families and an increase in dog tag sales for 2011.
Another adoption event is planned for the final weekend of February. It will be a ‘Cat-A-Thon’ at Complete Petmart, 597 Hebron Road, in the Southgate Shopping Center in Heath. Anyone interested in adopting one of a number of friendly cats is invited to stop by the store during regular hours Friday, Saturday and Sunday, February 25 thru 27. The only cost related to a cat adoption is for vaccinations and spay/neuter services. County staff and volunteers will man the event.
Remember to check Facebook and visit ‘Licking County Animal Shelter’. It is a great page to learn about animal adoption possibilities. It is important to note that Licking County is among the leaders in the state in helping stray animals find their way home, or finding new homes through adoption and rescue! And we couldn’t do it without the help of our volunteers and the numerous dedicated rescue groups!
Finally, any February summary of County activities must include a word or two about the recent investigations of paranormal activity at the County’s Historic Jail on South Third Street in downtown Newark.
Last fall we permitted three independent paranormal investigation groups, on different weekends, to look into reports of unexplained noises and other activity in the historic old lock-up that dates to 1889, and is now used to house the County’s Records Destruction Center.
In recent presentations they came forth with both audio and video evidence of unexplained paranormal happenings at the historic former jail. This information and a variety of ideas are part of a developing plan to work toward preservation and eventual restoration of the historic jail, and future uses such as a tourist attraction to ensure its viability in the decades ahead.
The Commissioners are committed to the preservation of this important public building and its local history. Anyone interested in serving on a task force to help “Save Our Jail” is welcome to call or e-mail and express your interest.
Thanks for taking time to read this February 2011 Commissioner Update. Feel free to forward in any direction you would like. Please advise by sending the e-mail address of anyone who would like to be included on my Update Newsletter list.
Also, feel free to visit my website … TimBubb.com, where I post updates on my personal blog.
I can also be e-mailed at tbubb@lcounty.com, and my desk phone number at the Commissioner’s Office is 740-670-5118.
Best Regards…Tim Bubb
Monday, January 24, 2011
JANUARY 2011 UPDATE from COMMISSIONER TIM BUBB
Greetings…
Just a quick update from the Commissioner’s Desk.
Beginning today (1/25) through the end of this month the Licking County Animal Shelter, in conjunction with many of our volunteers and our corporate partner the Tri-County Dodge, Jeep & Chrysler dealership in Heath, are sponsoring a special end of the month event.
The intent of the event is to both emphasize the sale of dog tags, which each year are required by state law. And to encourage the adoption of the dogs in our shelter! The Shelter, off Hopewell Drive in Heath, will be open 12-hours a day for this one week period to make visiting the facility and adopting a dog even more convenient. While visiting the Shelter please consider asking for a volunteer application, we welcome interested citizens who would like to help out as time permits.
The details of this special one-week event are below in this news release. Please read and feel free to forward it to others.
Regards…Commissioner Tim Bubb
7-Day Dog Tag-A-Thon: Tuesday, January 25th thru Monday, January 31st, 2011 - 7am – 7pm each day
It’s the Licking County Animal Shelter’s first Dog Tag-A-Thon!
The Shelter will be Open to the Public 12 Hours a Day for a One Week Period to Help People Obtain their 2011 Dog Licenses Before the End of the Month Deadline
For the safety and welfare of your pet, it needs to have its blue 2011 county dog license. Don’t forget! Time is running out to save $15 on the fee since the cost of the tag doubles after January 31st. Ohio law requires that all dogs three months of age or older must wear a current county tag. And the cost of a court citation for failing to register your dog is up to $150.
The value of your pet’s license is priceless when it comes to being quickly reunited. “Every day the shelter’s staff shares the frantic concerns of folks whose dog is missing for the first time”, says Licking County Animal Shelter Manager John Silva. “And the most rewarding part of the shelter’s job is seeing those looks of relief when people find their family pet safe at the shelter.”
The most important thing to know about the dog license fee is that the entire fee is used to care for the shelter’s animals. A special fund known as the “dog and kennel fund” ensures the county is able to provide a suitable place to humanely care for homeless dogs or orphaned pups. Licking County is proud to have an Animal Shelter with the highest adoption rate in Ohio!
The public can view photos of the shelter’s adoptable dogs at www.lcounty.com. Potential adopters can meet the dogs in person between 7am – 7pm during Tag-A-Thon Week. The price of a dog adoption is only $85 plus the $15 dog license, which includes vaccinations and spay-neuter services. During this one week promotional period, the new owner of any dog adopted will also be given a $50 gift card for pet supplies through the generous donation of the shelter’s community partner – Tri-County Dodge, Jeep, Chrysler dealership in Heath, Ohio.
The Licking County Animal Shelter is located in Heath at the corner of Hopewell Drive and State Route 13. Additional adoption or licensing information is available by calling 740-349-6563.
Just a quick update from the Commissioner’s Desk.
Beginning today (1/25) through the end of this month the Licking County Animal Shelter, in conjunction with many of our volunteers and our corporate partner the Tri-County Dodge, Jeep & Chrysler dealership in Heath, are sponsoring a special end of the month event.
The intent of the event is to both emphasize the sale of dog tags, which each year are required by state law. And to encourage the adoption of the dogs in our shelter! The Shelter, off Hopewell Drive in Heath, will be open 12-hours a day for this one week period to make visiting the facility and adopting a dog even more convenient. While visiting the Shelter please consider asking for a volunteer application, we welcome interested citizens who would like to help out as time permits.
The details of this special one-week event are below in this news release. Please read and feel free to forward it to others.
Regards…Commissioner Tim Bubb
7-Day Dog Tag-A-Thon: Tuesday, January 25th thru Monday, January 31st, 2011 - 7am – 7pm each day
It’s the Licking County Animal Shelter’s first Dog Tag-A-Thon!
The Shelter will be Open to the Public 12 Hours a Day for a One Week Period to Help People Obtain their 2011 Dog Licenses Before the End of the Month Deadline
For the safety and welfare of your pet, it needs to have its blue 2011 county dog license. Don’t forget! Time is running out to save $15 on the fee since the cost of the tag doubles after January 31st. Ohio law requires that all dogs three months of age or older must wear a current county tag. And the cost of a court citation for failing to register your dog is up to $150.
The value of your pet’s license is priceless when it comes to being quickly reunited. “Every day the shelter’s staff shares the frantic concerns of folks whose dog is missing for the first time”, says Licking County Animal Shelter Manager John Silva. “And the most rewarding part of the shelter’s job is seeing those looks of relief when people find their family pet safe at the shelter.”
The most important thing to know about the dog license fee is that the entire fee is used to care for the shelter’s animals. A special fund known as the “dog and kennel fund” ensures the county is able to provide a suitable place to humanely care for homeless dogs or orphaned pups. Licking County is proud to have an Animal Shelter with the highest adoption rate in Ohio!
The public can view photos of the shelter’s adoptable dogs at www.lcounty.com. Potential adopters can meet the dogs in person between 7am – 7pm during Tag-A-Thon Week. The price of a dog adoption is only $85 plus the $15 dog license, which includes vaccinations and spay-neuter services. During this one week promotional period, the new owner of any dog adopted will also be given a $50 gift card for pet supplies through the generous donation of the shelter’s community partner – Tri-County Dodge, Jeep, Chrysler dealership in Heath, Ohio.
The Licking County Animal Shelter is located in Heath at the corner of Hopewell Drive and State Route 13. Additional adoption or licensing information is available by calling 740-349-6563.
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
Best New Years Wishes from Tim and Marianne Bubb
As we put the ‘cork in the bottle’ for 2010 and look with optimism toward 2011 - Marianne and I would like to take this opportunity to wish you and yours a Happy New Year!
In this final County Commissioner e-mail newsletter of 2010 I would like to share a Year In-Review column written for the local media…
Licking County Commissioners - Year in Review 2010
In what has been a challenging year, I would like to share some thoughts about the achievements of your Licking County Government in a time of declining resources.
Much has been said recently about cutbacks, and any review of 2010 must begin with the effects of the recession. Unemployment in Licking County has declined from double digits to around nine percent by year end, with a number of employers hiring or planning to hire in 2011. A positive surge in economic activity happened this past year. A considerable increase was noted in commercial and industrial inquiries as our economic development professionals dealt with new business prospects on a level not seen since 2007.
Just to point to some of the successes – development is underway on several new businesses in the New Albany Industrial Park in Licking County, a major new business is locating in a new distribution facility in Etna, construction is underway for a new building with state of the art clean-rooms on the Port Authority site in Heath, a California glassmaker is finalizing plans to occupy a vacant industrial plant in Utica, the former Roper Plant site in Newark is being transformed into a viable ‘brown field’ industrial site for the future, and a number of other sites are seeing increased interest. In addition, the County in partnership with the State, Pataskala City and Etna Township will finish building a ‘development road’ through the JRS industrial site in western Licking County this spring.
The Complete Count Census Committee, for the County, continued its efforts though this past summer encouraging participation. Licking County residents responded with above average return of the Federal Census forms. The detailed Census results will be announced next year.
Licking County celebrated five years of selling surplus property on GovDeals.com, coordinated by Deputy Clerk Pam Jones. In this half decade the County’s unneeded property sold for some $350-thousand. This is many times what the old County on-site auction would have generated.
A number of major water and sewer projects were moved forward to improve local quality of life. After years of discussion, the Commissioners and the Southwest Licking Community Water and Sewer District completed a service agreement for water and sewer services in specific areas of the new State Route 161 corridor. An extension of sewer lines was brought under I-70 to serve the Route 37 corridor to Luray. Improvement is underway to the Prescott Estates water system. The Harbor Hills water system was upgraded and monthly rates were lowered! Work continues to extend sewer services to Jacksontown and St. Louisville, and to find a safe drinking water solution for the Village of Gratiot. A contract extending an agreement between the County and the City of Pataskala to provide drinking water for the Beechwood Trails Subdivision and other areas in Harrison Township is awaiting approval.
Licking County Transit continues to grow and celebrated five years in its new headquarters building in east Newark. In 2011 they will take over all transportation for the County Board of Developmental Disabilities, a collaboration designed to eliminate duplication of services and conserve community resources.
Entering 2011 the County Government continues to manage and provide needed services in a declining budget situation. The 2011 budget represents a five percent cut in spending from 2010, while maintaining a minimal carryover. The interim budget for 2011 is balanced, and we are hopeful the national recovery will mean a stronger local economy in the year ahead. Considering the challenges, I’m proud to say it has been a year of achievement on a number of fronts.
The County continues to develop a comprehensive Records and Archives Program. Efforts are continuing to salvage precious permanent records, and to properly archive and store all County records, paper and electronic. Also, a records destruction program is underway, eliminating unneeded records, and saving resources and precious space.
The County’s Information Technologies Department completed a critically needed data back-up center to protect the millions of computer records and actions, encompassing all aspects of County Government.
It should be noted the County’s investment in paperless digital computer systems for processing work at both our Job & Family Services and Child Support Enforcement agencies has allowed them to keep up with less staff and an increasing workload. These improvements are critical at a time when State financial support for these State/Local operations is dwindling.
The County’s Animal Control Department continues to improve with continued emphasis on professional leadership and an aggressive adoption program supported by our community, several helpful rescue groups, and a small army of dedicated volunteers. County Animal Control is proud to have one of the lowest humane euthanasia rates in the state, with a vast majority of stray dogs either being returned to their owners, or finding new homes through rescue and local adoption. By the way, now is the time to buy dog licenses for 2011, to guarantee your dog a return home if he or she becomes displaced.
An effort began in 2010 to preserve and work toward restoration of the historic old County Jail in downtown Newark. Modeled after efforts at the Mansfield Reformatory, a number of ideas, some tourist-related, are being pursued.
In its first year the Licking County Building Code Enforcement Agency was a major success. The unincorporated areas of the County, and most of the areas serviced by municipal governments benefited from the continuation of residential and commercial building code plan review and inspections.
These highlights represent achievement for the people of Licking County in a challenging year, and on behalf of fellow Commissioners Doug Smith and Brad Feightner, I am proud to share them with you.
Licking County Commissioner Tim Bubb
In this final County Commissioner e-mail newsletter of 2010 I would like to share a Year In-Review column written for the local media…
Licking County Commissioners - Year in Review 2010
In what has been a challenging year, I would like to share some thoughts about the achievements of your Licking County Government in a time of declining resources.
Much has been said recently about cutbacks, and any review of 2010 must begin with the effects of the recession. Unemployment in Licking County has declined from double digits to around nine percent by year end, with a number of employers hiring or planning to hire in 2011. A positive surge in economic activity happened this past year. A considerable increase was noted in commercial and industrial inquiries as our economic development professionals dealt with new business prospects on a level not seen since 2007.
Just to point to some of the successes – development is underway on several new businesses in the New Albany Industrial Park in Licking County, a major new business is locating in a new distribution facility in Etna, construction is underway for a new building with state of the art clean-rooms on the Port Authority site in Heath, a California glassmaker is finalizing plans to occupy a vacant industrial plant in Utica, the former Roper Plant site in Newark is being transformed into a viable ‘brown field’ industrial site for the future, and a number of other sites are seeing increased interest. In addition, the County in partnership with the State, Pataskala City and Etna Township will finish building a ‘development road’ through the JRS industrial site in western Licking County this spring.
The Complete Count Census Committee, for the County, continued its efforts though this past summer encouraging participation. Licking County residents responded with above average return of the Federal Census forms. The detailed Census results will be announced next year.
Licking County celebrated five years of selling surplus property on GovDeals.com, coordinated by Deputy Clerk Pam Jones. In this half decade the County’s unneeded property sold for some $350-thousand. This is many times what the old County on-site auction would have generated.
A number of major water and sewer projects were moved forward to improve local quality of life. After years of discussion, the Commissioners and the Southwest Licking Community Water and Sewer District completed a service agreement for water and sewer services in specific areas of the new State Route 161 corridor. An extension of sewer lines was brought under I-70 to serve the Route 37 corridor to Luray. Improvement is underway to the Prescott Estates water system. The Harbor Hills water system was upgraded and monthly rates were lowered! Work continues to extend sewer services to Jacksontown and St. Louisville, and to find a safe drinking water solution for the Village of Gratiot. A contract extending an agreement between the County and the City of Pataskala to provide drinking water for the Beechwood Trails Subdivision and other areas in Harrison Township is awaiting approval.
Licking County Transit continues to grow and celebrated five years in its new headquarters building in east Newark. In 2011 they will take over all transportation for the County Board of Developmental Disabilities, a collaboration designed to eliminate duplication of services and conserve community resources.
Entering 2011 the County Government continues to manage and provide needed services in a declining budget situation. The 2011 budget represents a five percent cut in spending from 2010, while maintaining a minimal carryover. The interim budget for 2011 is balanced, and we are hopeful the national recovery will mean a stronger local economy in the year ahead. Considering the challenges, I’m proud to say it has been a year of achievement on a number of fronts.
The County continues to develop a comprehensive Records and Archives Program. Efforts are continuing to salvage precious permanent records, and to properly archive and store all County records, paper and electronic. Also, a records destruction program is underway, eliminating unneeded records, and saving resources and precious space.
The County’s Information Technologies Department completed a critically needed data back-up center to protect the millions of computer records and actions, encompassing all aspects of County Government.
It should be noted the County’s investment in paperless digital computer systems for processing work at both our Job & Family Services and Child Support Enforcement agencies has allowed them to keep up with less staff and an increasing workload. These improvements are critical at a time when State financial support for these State/Local operations is dwindling.
The County’s Animal Control Department continues to improve with continued emphasis on professional leadership and an aggressive adoption program supported by our community, several helpful rescue groups, and a small army of dedicated volunteers. County Animal Control is proud to have one of the lowest humane euthanasia rates in the state, with a vast majority of stray dogs either being returned to their owners, or finding new homes through rescue and local adoption. By the way, now is the time to buy dog licenses for 2011, to guarantee your dog a return home if he or she becomes displaced.
An effort began in 2010 to preserve and work toward restoration of the historic old County Jail in downtown Newark. Modeled after efforts at the Mansfield Reformatory, a number of ideas, some tourist-related, are being pursued.
In its first year the Licking County Building Code Enforcement Agency was a major success. The unincorporated areas of the County, and most of the areas serviced by municipal governments benefited from the continuation of residential and commercial building code plan review and inspections.
These highlights represent achievement for the people of Licking County in a challenging year, and on behalf of fellow Commissioners Doug Smith and Brad Feightner, I am proud to share them with you.
Licking County Commissioner Tim Bubb
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
