ST. CLAIRSVILLE, Ohio — Belmont County Port Authority Director Larry Merry introduced a new regional economic development partner during the June 25 Belmont County Board of Commissioners meeting, welcoming Brian Hill of Ohio Southeast Economic Development (OhioSE) to the county.
Hill, who manages engagement and partnerships across 12 counties within the OhioSE network, will be working closely with Belmont County as part of the group’s broader mission to spur economic growth throughout the southeastern portion of the state. OhioSE, a JobsOhio regional partner, serves 25 counties across the region.
According to the OhioSE website, Hill “served as General Manager/CEO of Guernsey-Muskingum Electric Cooperative. His public service career includes terms as an Ohio State Senator (20th District) and State Representative (97th District), where he chaired the Agriculture and Rural Development Committee and was actively involved in energy, utility, and environmental issues.”
Hill acknowledged the strong groundwork laid by Merry and the Port Authority and expressed enthusiasm about advancing partnerships focused on workforce development, technology infrastructure, and business retention.
Belmont County hopes to benefit from OhioSE’s strategic planning, which includes fostering innovation, attracting investment, and supporting local employers in sectors like energy, logistics, and advanced manufacturing.
Hill’s visit marks a renewed focus on regional collaboration, with officials optimistic about future opportunities for economic growth and modernization across eastern Ohio.
Concerning other business at the meeting, the Belmont County Board of Commissioners approved travel for Senior Services of Belmont County employees and highlighted the outstanding work the agency does for local senior citizens.
Commissioners noted that while senior centers remain very active throughout Belmont County, out-of-county travel is typically limited to once per quarter per center, which is why these approvals were specifically highlighted during the meeting.
The board praised the centers for maintaining a packed schedule of social, recreational, and intergenerational programming. A recent example included a collaborative event at the Centerville Senior Center, where senior participants joined with 4-H youth in a fair-style event—an intergenerational initiative the commissioners hope to see continue.
“These activities, trips, and services are essential not just for nutrition but for social connection and overall well-being,” said Commissioner J.P. Dutton. “We are proud of the work our senior centers do every day.”
Commissioners reaffirmed their support for senior services, noting that approximately 1,200 meals are delivered daily to eligible residents through nine carefully planned delivery routes.
The next meeting of the Belmont County Board of Commissioners is Wednesday, July 2 at 10 a.m. at the Belmont County Courthouse in St. Clairsville.
