BELLVILLE, Ohio – Bellville Mayor Darrell Banks announced his intention to run for Richland County Commissioner in the Republican primary next March for a term beginning Jan. 2, 2017. Banks told supporters at a press conference Monday morning that he wants to address the county’s financial issues and to implement “efficient and effective government.” Banks […]
Bill Henderson, Correspondent
Posted inEducation
Clear Fork board studies survey results, move toward two-school option
BELLVILLE, Ohio – Clear Fork Board of Education members agree the timing is right to pursue new elementary school facilities. In a work session Tuesday night that was open to the public, the board members considered results of a second survey by registered voters. They weighed the pros and cons of one consolidated building versus […]
Posted inElections, News
Bellville voters to consider street levy on Nov. 3
BELLVILLE, Ohio — Bellville residents will vote on a 4 mil replacement street levy on Nov 3. Officials say the levy will provide income to maintain streets and alleys in Bellville. “It is not a new tax,” said Fiscal Officer Brigette Gatton, “but it is a replacement levy and not a renewal levy.” Gatton said […]
Posted inNews
Tennis courts await repairs
BELLVILLE, Ohio — Repairs to three tennis courts in Bellville may be forthcoming, but not before spring. Large cracks in the playing surface have made play sketchy, and sometimes pose a danger to players. Talk of a new school tennis facility is also gaining traction in the community. The tennis courts are used by both […]
Posted inEducation
Clear Fork considers building options
BELLVILLE, Ohio — Clear Fork Local Valley Schools hosted three public meetings recently to inform residents about elementary school building options and to garner feedback from area voters. An estimated 400 residents turned out for the meetings held at three locations around the district. A recent survey indicated residents want newer elementary facilities. Superintendent Janice […]
Posted inElections, News
Lone write-in candidate will be new Butler mayor
BUTLER, Ohio — Butler will have a new mayor this November. Residents knew that when Kevin Carr declined to seek re-election after four years in the position. But for a time it was unclear who would succeed him. No one filled out an application to run for the position until Ken Kinley finally registered as […]
Posted inEducation
Clear Fork buildings may not require tax increase; Residents urged to attend meetings
BELLVILLE, Ohio — The Clear Fork board of education learned new buildings can be constructed without a tax increase. Rockmill Financial Consulting president David Conley said after reviewing the district’s financial condition he believes Clear Fork can “build any of the three options under consideration without raising taxes.” However, it would require voters to “extend […]
Posted inEducation
Clear Fork teacher Jamie Chamberlain remembered by students and staff
BELLVILLE, Ohio — Jamie Chamberlain has been described as a talented professional who will be missed by students and staff in Clear Fork. The 40-year-old Spanish teacher died Sept. 25 after battling cancer. The Baldwin-Wallace graduate taught at Clear Fork High School for 16 years. Her students say they remember her as a role model […]
Posted inEducation, Elections, News
Four write-in candidates on Clear Fork BOE ballot
BELLVILLE, Ohio — Voters in the Clear Fork school district will choose from four candidates competing for two open board of education seats. However, none of the four candidates will be on the ballot form because they are write-in candidates. Officials say voters should know the procedures when casting a vote for these write-in candidates. […]
Posted inEducation
Clear Fork to ask residents to consider future of elementary schools
BELLVILLE, Ohio — The Clear Fork school board is taking the first steps toward replacing both their elementary school buildings in Bellville and Butler. District officials say they will be seeking community input through surveys in the coming weeks. School board members and Superintendent Janice Wyckoff insist the decision will be up to the community […]