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Articles by JD Long
Tappan Lake opens regional safety center
Local officials and first responders gathered Oct. 30 for a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the new Tappan Lake Regional Safety Center, 35400 Cadiz-Dennison Road, Scio. The facility along U.S. 250 houses the Tappan Lake Volunteer Fire Department and provides classroom space, law enforcement training facilities and a helicopter landing pad for emergency medical transport. “Really proud of the facility,” said Craig Butler, executive director of the Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District.
Atwood Lake training becomes water rescue
Bowerston and New Philadelphia crews rescued a kayaker Oct. 24 after his boat capsized while he tried to retrieve a submerged drone Bowerston and New Philadelphia rescuers pulled a man from Atwood Lake Oct. 24 after his kayak capsized near the command post of a water rescue training exercise. A unified rescue training session at Atwood Lake involving Bowerston, New Philadelphia, Unified Rescue, a technical rescue group based in Dellroy, and Tech and Rescue turned into an actual rescue.
Harrison County reviews demolition grants, Adena trail
County officials discuss demolition grants, Adena trail project County officials discussed demolition grant requirements and plans for Adena’s Historic Adena Coal Trail and Visitors’ Center during the Harrison Regional Planning Commission’s final meeting of the year Oct. 27. The commission met in the county commissioners’ office at the courthouse. Its balance was $5,817.08, down from $6,117.08 in June.
Harrison foundation awards $35,945 in grants
The Harrison County Community Foundation awarded $35,945 in grants during an Oct. 28 ceremony in the press box at Wagner Field in Cadiz. Committee member Matthew Puskarich said the foundation began with $10,000 in 2012 and now has an endowment approaching $1 million. “We’re closing in on our first million,” Puskarich said.
Cleveland man keeps attorney in drug case
Hervie L. Johnson, of Cleveland, agreed to continue with his court-appointed attorney during an Oct. 27 appearance before Judge T. Shawn Hervey on drug charges. Johnson is charged with possession of cocaine and trafficking in cocaine, both first-degree felonies, and aggravated possession of drugs and aggravated trafficking in drugs, both second-degree felonies. Hervey questioned Johnson about filing “30 to 40” motions on his own while represented by attorney Dan Guinn.
Archer Township questions proposed landfill plans
Jump to main content Residents and Harrison County officials raised traffic, water and zoning concerns over Waste Management's proposed Toot Road landfill Residents from across the area voice concerns about Waste Management's proposed landfill in Archer Township during a public meeting. The company has indicated it plans to begin operations in 2030.
Harrison County voters face commissioner race, levies
Harrison County voters will decide a contested county commissioner race, several tax levy renewals and a statewide constitutional amendment Nov. 3, along with races for the U.S. Senate and Ohio House of Representatives. Ohio's U.S. Senate race is a special election to fill the remainder of JD Vance's term, which expires in January 2029. Republican incumbent Jon Husted faces Democrat Sherrod Brown, a former U.S. senator, Libertarian William B. Redpath and independent Gregory Levy.
Cadiz council withdraws ordinance creating village jobs
Cadiz Village Council voted 3-2 Oct. 22 to withdraw a proposed ordinance creating two full-time positions after a council member questioned whether the measure complied with Ohio law. The ordinance, which had reached its second reading, would have created the positions of public works director and compliance and grants analyst. Both positions would report to the village administrator.
Cadiz retains cemetery mineral rights
Cadiz Village Council voted 3-2 Oct. 22 to retain mineral rights beneath the old cemetery while unanimously approving the transfer of cemetery property to the Cadiz Union Cemetery trustees. Village Solicitor Charles Kidder opened the discussion by informing council that a judgment involving the cemetery and its property description had been recorded. “And I need council to tell me if we’re going to deed that, to the trustees of the cemetery,” Kidder said. Mayor R.
Scio man approved for polygraph exam
Floyd E. Burge, a Scio resident facing six felony charges, has received court approval to undergo a polygraph examination under an agreement that could affect the prosecution of his case. Burge faces two counts of rape and two counts of trafficking in persons, all first-degree felonies, and two counts of gross sexual imposition, both third-degree felonies. During an Oct. 20 pretrial hearing, Harrison County Common Pleas Judge T.
GOP approves troop care package donation
The Harrison County Republican Party approved a $250 donation to help send holiday care packages to U.S. troops serving overseas during its Oct. 20 meeting. Paul Coffland made the motion to approve the donation. “I was made aware that we, as a party, usually make a donation to the veterans support group to help send the packages to our troops overseas during the holiday season,” Chairman Don Jones said.
Bowerston man receives probation in assault case
Two Harrison County court cases involving Preston G. Smalley, 59, of Bowerston and Jake D. Emery, 34, of Jewett had developments following regular Tuesday court proceedings. Smalley's case was resolved Oct. 14, the morning his trial was scheduled to begin, before jury selection. Smalley faced a fourth-degree felony assault charge and a first-degree misdemeanor charge of resisting arrest.
Scio repairs water line beneath Route 151
Scio Village Administrator Jason Tubaugh reported that a three-quarter-inch water service line leak beneath state Route 151 has been repaired. Tubaugh told council at its Oct. 14 meeting that the leak was discovered Oct. 2, but excavating the roadway was not the preferred option. “The repair required a bore under the roadway to replace the entire three-quarter service line,” Tubaugh wrote in his report.
Former elections director faces felony charges
Former Harrison County Board of Elections Director Dion Troiano was among 16 defendants scheduled for arraignment Oct. 13 in Harrison County Common Pleas Court. Troiano, who also served as treasurer of the Harrison County Republican Party, faces three felony charges: fourth-degree felony theft, third-degree felony telecommunications fraud and third-degree felony tampering with records. Troiano submitted his resignation Oct. 7 after being placed on unpaid leave.
Adena drops alley paving plan over cost
Adena Village Council learned Oct. 13 that plans to pave an alley next to the Village Green will not move forward because of insufficient funding. Mayor Brenda Roski said the village cannot afford the project, prompting a lengthy discussion about parking concerns near LA Pizza, the Village Green and Hanna Avenue. During the September council meeting, Roski proposed converting the alley next to LA Pizza into a paved roadway with parking spaces along the fence bordering the Village Green.
Harrison County fields new business inquiries
The Harrison County Community Improvement Corporation continues to field inquiries from companies considering potential business locations in the county, Economic Development Director Nick Homrighausen told the board during its Oct. 13 meeting at the Puskarich Public Library in Cadiz. During the old business portion of the meeting, Homrighausen provided updates on several prospective economic development projects identified by code names rather than company names.
Harrison elections board appoints new director
The Harrison County Board of Elections appointed a new director and deputy director at its Oct. 12 meeting following the resignation of Dion Troiano, who was indicted on three felony charges related to his time as treasurer of the Harrison County Republican Party. The charges filed in Harrison County, include theft, a fourth-degree felony, and telecommunications fraud and tampering with records, both third-degree felonies.
Cadiz preserves road in lake project redesign
A project involving the large lake at Sally Buffalo Park that has been under discussion for at least five years will move forward with a revised design following action by Cadiz Village Council. During its Oct. 8 meeting, council considered whether to proceed with a plan to modify the dam and create a spillway that would eliminate the road between the lake and a sunken field bordering Ohio 9 near Harrison Central High School.
Cadiz council reviews deer-feeding concerns
A Cadiz resident asked village council to address neighbors feeding deer, saying the practice has caused the animals to approach her on her property and created safety concerns. Kelly McKeever told council she has been tracking 10 to 25 bucks, including deer with eight- to 10-point antlers. “I go outside, they’re walking up to me,” McKeever said.
Harrison commissioners approve court appropriations
The Harrison County commissioners approved several appropriations at their Oct. 7 meeting, including five requests involving the county's common pleas court. The first request came from Judge T. Shawn Hervey, who sought an additional $20,000 for appointed counsel assigned to cases when needed.
Former elections director indicted in Harrison County
An investigation lasting more than six months into missing funds from the Harrison County Republican Party has resulted in the indictment and arrest of Dion Andrew Troiano II. Troiano, the party's treasurer at the time the missing funds were discovered, was arrested the evening of Oct. 2, according to the Harrison County Jail's Facebook page.
Harrison County to hold free tire collection
The Harrison County commissioners announced at their Sept. 30 meeting that a scrap tire collection will be held Oct. 10 from 9 a.m. to noon at the Harrison County Fairgrounds. The collection is free to county residents. Participants are asked not to arrive early to avoid traffic backups. A maximum of 10 tires per vehicle will be accepted. The collection is limited to passenger car and light truck tires without rims. Tires from businesses will not be accepted.
Harrison County recognizes Domestic Violence Awareness Month
The Harrison County commissioners recognized October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month during their Sept. 30 meeting. Community Education Advocate Misty Klug and Sexual Assault Facilitator JaQue Galloway of the Tri-County Help Center attended the meeting to present the board with Resolution 66-26.
Harrison Hills to retire bond debt early
The Harrison Hills City School District announced at its Sept. 30 meeting that its building bond will be paid off nearly 28 years early. “The Board of Education approved a resolution authorizing the final steps to complete the payoff,” Director of Communications and Marketing Katie Sedgmer said.
Cadiz man’s felony case awaits hearing
Ralph D. Robinson, 29, of Cadiz, was scheduled to appear for a hearing, but the matter did not proceed on the record. Robinson, who is represented by attorney Logan B. Graham, faces 11 felony charges involving a minor. Nine are pandering charges involving a minor, including six second-degree felonies and three third-degree felonies. Two charges involve illegal use of a minor, including one second-degree felony and one fifth-degree felony.
Council rejects move to eliminate code officer
Councilmember Amy Ossman raised concerns about code and zoning enforcement officer John Vermillion, who was appointed to the position last December for a 90-day period. At the Sept. 24 meeting, Ossman said she had asked for a job description but could not find one and asked council members for their thoughts on the matter. “First thing I think we should make a motion to do away with it,” Councilmember Albert Peters said.
University of Cincinnati studies Cadiz water concerns
The water situation in Cadiz continues to be a topic of discussion as village officials work to address discoloration and odor that residents say have affected the water for several years. Local residents seeking answers reached out to the University of Cincinnati, and a community discussion was held Sunday, Sept. 27, among residents, university students and two educators as part of a student project.
Cadiz officer Wyatt Hervey begins field training
Judge T. Shawn Hervey swore in his son Sept. 22 after he completed the village police department's first cadet program Judge T. Shawn Hervey swears in his son, Wyatt Hervey, as a Cadiz police officer. The Cadiz Police Department has received some new help, but there was added significance inside the Harrison County Common Pleas courtroom Sept. 22 when Judge T. Shawn Hervey swore in his son, Wyatt.
Harrison County commits $60,000 for demolition grant
The Harrison County commissioners voiced their commitment to the county’s 2027 Building Demolition and Site Revitalization Grant by confirming a 25% local match during their Sept. 23 meeting. Commissioner Dustin Corder read a letter to the Ohio Department of Development, Office of Community Development, committing up to $60,000 toward demolition costs. “We hereby commit up to $60,000 for demolition costs,” Corder read.
Scio awaits $38,000 in missing checks
Funds from accumulated taxes and other sources have not been received by Scio or other villages around Harrison County, according to Fiscal Officer Renea Riesen, who discussed the issue at council’s Sept. 23 meeting. Riesen told council that checks have been reissued, but the village has not received those either. She said the post office had no answers at this time. “Back in June nobody got their checks but then they reissued those and I’ve not gotten the reissued ones for Scio yet,” Riesen said.
Green sentenced to 24 years to life
Family members of Steven Andrews gave emotional victim impact statements before Mickey L. Green was sentenced Sept. 23. Green was found guilty on all four counts he faced at his Sept. 3 trial, which included two charges of murder, discharging a firearm on or near prohibited premises and felonious assault. Judge T. Shawn Hervey said there was nothing he could do that day to bring back Andrews, a father, husband and son.
Harrisville sewer plant shows progress
Council was updated on the progress of the village’s sewer situation by plant operatorKyle Moffit at their Sept. 17 regular meeting. After a guest prompted the discussion Mayor Lisa Milliken opened the floor for Moffit as he explained the situation and answered questions. “The sewer plant is functioning now like it’s supposed to,” Moffit said.
Hopedale submits 20 homes for demolition aid
Mayor Mike Pelegreen raised the issue of housing demolitions and said the program is changing its qualifications. He said it has become a “merit-based selection process now.” Pelegreen said the village has 20 structures ready to submit with its application. He said he sent a letter of recommendation to the state in an effort to keep the project moving. “Because what’s happening is a lot of places are not submitting, and the money is going to dry up. It’s going to go somewhere else,” Pelegreen said.
Harrison County advances land bank plans
Harrison County Commissioner Paul Prevot appeared before Jewett Council at its Sept. 17 meeting and provided an extensive update on the proposed county land bank and other projects commissioners are pursuing. Commissioner Dustin Corder announced at a recent meeting that the county was pursuing the creation of a land bank. Corder said Harrison County is one of only 16 counties in the state without one. A land bank acquires abandoned or tax-delinquent properties and can return them to productive use.
Harrison County demolition grants now competitive
President Dale Arbaugh opened the Harrison County Community Improvement Corporation’s Sept. 15 meeting with a brief financial report. The August numbers were normal and have remained the same for the first half of September. Arbaugh’s motion to file for audit was approved. He continued with the usual report of communicating with various companies, which Economic Development Director Nick Homrighausen, who was not present at the time, continued to do.
Man arraigned in Scio Circle K robbery
Blake E. Judy, 24, of Point Pleasant, West Virginia, was arraigned Sept. 15 in connection with the attempted robbery of the Circle K in Scio Aug. 31. He allegedly fled in a van reported stolen from Tuscarawas County. Flock license plate reader cameras, which have been the subject of debate across the country, aided authorities in locating Judy while he was traveling in western Pennsylvania. Judy’s bond was set at $100,000, and he requested that an attorney be appointed to represent him.
Harrison County approves emergency planning contract
A services contract between the Harrison County Local Emergency Planning Committee, the county Emergency Management Agency and the commissioners was agreed upon at the board’s Sept. 16 meeting. The LEPC has been in effect for years led by EMA Director Eric Wilson who was present for Agreement 30-26. Wilson provided background on what they would vote on telling them the Ohio EPA has a division called the State Emergency Response Commission, who are responsible for overseeing hazardous chemicals.
Harrison County prepares polling site backups
The Harrison County Board of Elections held their Sept. 14 meeting in the Coal Room to accommodate the extra guests, which included Captain John Thompson of the sheriff’s office, Det. Todd Smith, Emergency Management Director Eric Wilson and Fiona Furmanski, secretary of state liaison. With Election Day now just six weeks away security and emergency services were discussed with the board in securing services for Harrison County’s 12 precincts.
Scio resident presses Cadiz on sediment in water
When Scio resident Tammy Stroud-Penton held up her glass container of soiled water, the sight was eerily familiar. It was reminiscent of what Cadiz has been going through during the past year, but this problem appears to be isolated to the Hilltop Drive area. “We have, still have our ongoing water problem,” Stroud-Penton said. She described the situation as ridiculous and asked council for answers.
Wright ordered to prison for probation violation
The Anderson, Indiana, woman received 540 days after admitting she violated sanctions in the Jewett animal cruelty case Harrison County Common Pleas Court Judge T. Shawn Hervey presides over a Sept. 8 hearing for Jamie Wright, who appeared by video. Wright admitted to violating the terms of her community control and was ordered to serve 540 days in prison, with credit for 336 days served. Jamie Wright, the 35 year old who lists Anderson Indiana as home, was back in court Sept.
Wright sent to prison in Jewett cruelty case
Jamie Wright received 876 days in prison, with credit for 336 days served, after admitting a community control violation Harrison County Common Pleas Court Judge T. Shawn Hervey presides over a Sept. 8 hearing for Jamie Wright, who appeared by video. Wright admitted to violating the terms of her community control and was ordered to serve 540 days in prison, with credit for 336 days served. Jamie Wright, the 35 year old who lists Anderson Indiana as home, was back in court Sept.
Pedestrians struck in Cadiz incidents
Police said neither pedestrian suffered life-threatening injuries in separate Labor Day weekend crashes on East Market Street Two pedestrians were struck by vehicles in separate incidents in Cadiz over Labor Day weekend, with neither injury considered life-threatening, according to Cadiz Police Chief Ryan McCann. McCann said neither pedestrian suffered life-threatening injuries.
Adena residents press council on village projects
Concerns over parking, sidewalk access and former bank renovations dominated the Sept. 8 council meeting Hair Headquarters and LA Pizza were at the center of discussion over parking and sidewalk improvements near the Village Green. Several residents attended Adena Village Council’s Sept. 8 meeting to raise concerns about communication, parking and ongoing improvements around the Village Green.
Jewett council seeks quote for sewer pump
Council delayed action on an estimated $13,000 pump while approving $10,000 more for an East Main Street wall The wall near Block O Sports Bar will undergo improvements. Village council in Jewett covered sewer pumps, walls and community improvements at its Sept. 3 meeting. One early issue discussed was a sewer pump estimated to cost $13,000, according to Councilmember Bobbie Prevot, who said the information came from absent Treasurer Linda Ager.
Tippecanoe man convicted in fatal shooting
A Harrison County jury found Mickey L. Green guilty of murder and two related felonies in the April 2025 shooting of Steven Andrews near Deersville Mickey Green is placed in shackles after being found guilty of murder while awaiting the jury’s modification of the verdict form for count three. The three-day trial, which began with a final preliminary hearing Aug. 31 and ended Sept. 3, came crashing down on Mickey L.
Harrison County awards Dunbar school bid
Commissioners selected Marlo Construction Solutions for the Brownfield Grant project and established land bank tracking funds The Dunbar project was awarded after bids were reviewed for the Brownfield Grant, with the board selecting Marlo Construction Solutions LLC of Rayland. The bid award was approved unanimously with no further discussion. The Harrison County commissioners moved through an uneventful Aug.
Cadiz forum examines data center impacts
Environmental researcher Randi Pokladnik outlined concerns about water use, pollution, energy demand and Ohio regulations at the Puskarich Public Library Dr. Randi Pokladnik, who holds a doctorate and master’s degree in environmental studies as well as degrees in engineering and chemistry, held a symposium at the Puskarich Public Library in Cadiz Aug. 29 before a well-attended crowd.
Judge weighs Satterfield statement suppression
A Harrison County judge heard testimony Aug. 25 on whether statements from the Toronto man accused of trafficking and rape complicity can be used at trial Brian Satterfield awaits a decision following a hearing on a motion to suppress statements he made to police. Brian D.
Cadiz tables North Main truck restrictions
Council delayed proposed truck limits and a new four-way stop while advancing water plant staffing and park funding plans A three-way stop will soon be a four-way just up from Mazeroski Field after U.S. 22 work is completed. At the Cadiz council meeting, eight ordinances sandwiched around an executive session, which lasted more than twice as long as the actual meeting, revealed some long-awaited safety measures as well as attempts to cut down on truck traffic in certain areas.
Scio council approves funds for former PNC building
The emergency measure also covers salt supplies and a sewer-project disbursement approved Aug. 26 The lift station fire occurred inside the building but no damage was seen outside. In a move Scio council has been working on for months, Resolution 2026-8.1 was passed as an emergency at its Aug.
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