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Originally published Sept. 18, 2024
ST. CLAIRSVILLE, Ohio – Ohio State Senator Brian Chavez (R) and Ohio State Representative Don Jones (R-Freeport) announced at the Belmont County Commissioners meeting Wednesday that the Sargus Juvenile Center will receive $1 million for renovations.
Jones explained that the money comes from a capital bill that he and Chavez worked on together to bring the funds to Belmont County. He said the county received between $1 million and $1.5 million dollars in capital funds this year.
Jones said the allocations show how the tax dollars you pay can be put to work and brought back to the district.
Chavez said there were many requests for capital bill money for projects across Ohio.
Commissioners recently toured the Sargus Center and saw what they call the subpar condition of the bathroom and shower facilities. The center also hosted a 50th anniversary gathering that commissioners said was eye opening.
When D.J. [director] had the 50th anniversary, some of these things in that building were hard to look at.
Belmont County Commissioner Jerry Echemann
Jones said that some of the capital funds went to fire departments and EMS but it was unlikely future capital bill monies would go to these groups again.
This was a one-time strategic fund that we may never see again for fire and EMS.
Ohio State Representative Don Jones (R-Freeport)
Chavez took office in December and Jones is in his last term. Commissioners say the two politicians worked together to make the Sargus project happen and thanked them for their efforts.
We’d like to thank you as a board.
Belmont County Commissioner Jerry Echemann
D.J. Watson, Director of the Sargus Juvenile Center, also thanked those involved in approving the project. He said the center serves an average of 20 to 21 youths each day from Belmont and Harrison Counties. Some stay overnight while others stay a few weeks.
Watson said the restroom and shower facilities desperately need remodeled. He explained that this project is not like remodeling your home bathroom. It requires heavy-duty, stainless steel fixtures that are unbreakable.
Chief Deputy Jim Zusack of the Belmont County Sheriff’s Office says his department has a good rapport with Sargus Center staff.
We have a good partnership with Sargus. We try to work with them and pick the kids who need to be there.
Chief Deputy Jim Zusack, Belmont County Sheriff’s Office
Judge Albert Davies of the Belmont County Probate and Juvenile Courts stressed the importance of the Sargus Center in the community.
Sargus Juvenile Center is a very important piece of juvenile justice in Belmont County.
Judge Albert Davies of the Belmont County Probate and Juvenile Courts
Davies added that this area is a “special place” where local and state leaders work to get things done. He said he was appreciative of everyone involved in the Sargus project.