CAMBRIDGE, Ohio — The Guernsey County Board of Commissioners approved funding for a major water infrastructure project while also addressing housing, transportation, child services funding and several community development initiatives during meetings held on July 21 and July 23.
Among the board’s largest actions was the approval of more than $1.26 million for the State Route 313 and Vocational Road Waterline Replacement Project. Commissioners also finalized the construction contract, allowing the project to move forward.
Commissioners additionally approved a revised resolution that will place a proposed 1.25-mill property tax levy for Guernsey County Children Services before voters during the Nov. 3 general election. The 10-year levy is projected to generate roughly $1.75 million each year if approved by voters.
The board also authorized spending up to $25,000 to furnish and equip the conference room at the Guernsey County Public Services Building on Steubenville Avenue. The funding will be used for furniture, office supplies and upgraded audio equipment.
A public road viewing and hearing has been scheduled for Aug. 13 regarding a petition to vacate approximately 1.4 miles of Nighthawk Road in Richland Township.
Commissioners also voiced support for the Guernsey County Community Development Corporation’s application for a Muskingum Watershed Conservancy District Connecting Communities Grant. If awarded, the funding would finance accessibility improvements at Coal Ridge Park & Trails, including paved parking, an accessible walking trail and upgraded access for boats and kayaks.
Housing and redevelopment were major topics during the July 21 meeting as commissioners discussed the future of the Guernsey County Land Bank. Officials considered whether Delinquent Tax Collection (DTAC) funds could help support demolition projects, housing rehabilitation efforts and administrative expenses. Commissioners agreed that any formal funding request must first be submitted by the Land Bank Board after additional review.
The Community Development Corporation also presented an update on several countywide initiatives aimed at improving housing, transportation and overall quality of life.
Officials reported the county’s second-shift transportation service, which began operating June 1, has already provided 188 rides, primarily serving manufacturing employees working evening schedules. Over the past year, the county’s mobility program completed more than 9,300 transportation trips while also installing eight accessibility ramps for residents.
The presentation also highlighted efforts to expand affordable housing, including rehabilitation of rental properties, plans to establish a countywide housing coalition and discussions with local leaders about acquiring property for future residential development. Officials acknowledged ongoing challenges such as increasing rental costs, limited affordable housing options and barriers that continue to affect residents seeking stable housing.
Additional accomplishments included the cleanup of eight illegal dumping sites, removal of more than 53,000 discarded tires, improvements to local trails, wetland restoration work, cemetery assistance, re-entry programming and securing more than $8.2 million in grant funding since 2013.
During the July 23 meeting, commissioners entered executive session to discuss a personnel matter involving the county’s Information Technology Department. No action was taken following the closed-door discussion, and the issue is expected to be revisited in about a month.
Commissioners also conducted their regular courthouse security meeting and received budget projections from Palmer Energy Company to assist with planning for the county’s anticipated utility expenses in 2027.
