Joe Lyons

Miller, Ashland County Delegation Tour Southern Border

Joe Lyons • October 3, 2024

COLUMBUS, OH – State Rep. Melanie Miller (R-Ashland) toured the southern U.S. border in Cochise County, Arizona this week alongside Ashland Mayor Matt Miller and incoming Ashland County Sheriff Kurt Schneider.

The Ashland County delegation met with Cochise County Sheriff Mark Dannels and local law enforcement to gain a firsthand understanding of how federal policy is affecting illegal immigration.

“This tour was an eye-opening experience,” said Miller. “You see dozens of stories on the news, but until you are here, it’s difficult to grasp the full scale of the crisis caused by our federal border policies.”

Along with a briefing on the Cartel’s control of the border and efforts to combat human and drug smuggling, the delegation met with local leaders and joined the border enforcement team on patrol.

“Seeing firsthand how easily cartels smuggle people across the border really drives home the severity of the human trafficking crisis. The border is just the starting point of a horrific journey for many victims, and it’s clear we need to take stronger action, not just at the border, but here in Ohio, to stop this exploitation and protect vulnerable people.”

Ashland County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Hall Presents 90-Day Update as New Dog Warden

Joe Lyons • October 3, 2024

ASHLAND, OH— In a this morning’s meeting with the Ashland County Commissioners, Deputy Hall of the Ashland County Sheriff’s Office provided an insightful 90-day update on his new role as the county’s dog warden. The presentation highlighted significant strides made in dog licensing, shelter operations, and community relations, underscoring the positive impact of strategic community policing initiatives.

Deputy Hall began his address by expressing gratitude to Sheriff Risner, Chief Blake, and Captain Sims for their support, which he credits with enabling a flexible approach to his duties. “This position has allowed me to not only engage with the community but also utilize innovative policing strategies, such as building bridges instead of walls,” Hall remarked, emphasizing the importance of understanding the people he serves.

Collaboration with Local Agencies

A central theme of Hall’s update was collaboration. He acknowledged the efforts of the local auditor’s office, which he described as “unsung heroes” in ensuring that records accurately reflect the dynamics of dog ownership in the county. “With their assistance, we’ve made significant improvements in tracking and reporting,” Hall noted, addressing the challenges posed by fluctuations in dog populations due to factors like relocations and unfortunate incidents.

He also praised the health department for their cooperation in tackling the rising number of dog bite incidents. “Our dog bite numbers are through the roof,” Hall admitted, while detailing his efforts to work closely with legal authorities, including the law director’s office and local judges, to streamline the handling of such cases. Hall expressed appreciation for the support he received, which has led to advancements in how dog-related incidents are charged and prosecuted.

Significant Impact on Dog Licensing

Hall reported that in the past 90 days, he has managed a total of 170 calls for service, a clear indication of the proactive measures being taken to improve dog ownership compliance. He highlighted that 473 delinquent dog licenses have been resolved, contributing to the issuance of 641 total dog licenses, which generated approximately $20,000 in revenue directly allocated to the Dog Shelter Fund.

“This funding is crucial for relieving some of the financial stress on our shelter,” he explained. “Contrary to popular belief, these funds are not entering the general fund but are specifically directed back to support the shelter.”

Hall noted that Ashland County now ranks third among neighboring counties in terms of dog license compliance, a notable achievement given the historical challenges faced. He compared this success to Union County, which has a more established program, indicating a significant upward trend in local compliance.

Shelter Performance and Adoption Success

Deputy Hall’s update also encompassed a report on shelter operations. Currently, the Ashland County Dog Shelter is housing 34 dogs. In the past 90 days, 35 dogs have been adopted, and 40 have been reunited with their owners. Hall projected that the shelter generated about $7,300 in revenue during this period, although he suspects the actual figure may be higher due to unaccounted fees.

This performance is not just about numbers; it reflects a broader commitment to improving the welfare of animals in the county. Hall has been actively involved in efforts to promote the shelter and its services, indicating that upcoming events, such as adoption fairs, are crucial for public engagement.

Community Engagement Initiatives

In an effort to enhance community visibility and relations, Deputy Hall announced several initiatives aimed at increasing public awareness of the shelter’s mission. “We’ve participated in the fair and other public events, allowing us to connect with the community,” he stated. He invited community members to an upcoming adoption event, which will feature a range of activities, including a raffle and potential food offerings.

Sheriff Risner commented on Hall’s performance, stating, “We entered this initiative unsure of what to expect, but Hall has shown enthusiasm and dedication. This job is challenging, especially when dealing with issues that affect families.”

Commissioner President Denny Bittle echoed these sentiments, emphasizing Hall’s organizational skills and proactive approach. “When Deputy Hall started, we had over 900 unlicensed dogs. To see such a significant reduction in such a short time is remarkable,” Bittle remarked. He also praised Hall for his balanced decision-making regarding the shelter’s policies, especially concerning the sensitive issue of euthanizing aggressive or unadoptable dogs.

Conclusion

As Deputy Hall concluded his presentation, he reaffirmed his commitment to continuous improvement in dog licensing and shelter operations. The collaborative efforts with various local agencies have positioned Ashland County to tackle challenges more effectively while ensuring that the welfare of dogs remains a top priority.

With ongoing community engagement and innovative strategies, the future looks promising for both the Ashland County Dog Shelter and its four-legged residents. As Deputy Hall prepares for the next phase of his role, he remains focused on creating a safe, compliant, and caring environment for all dogs in the county.

Video courtesy of the Ashland County Commissioners Office

ACCF Revamps Loans for Adult Education

Joe Lyons • October 3, 2024

ASHLAND – Starting this fall, Ashland County Community Foundation will award Hess Educational Loans to eligible adults year-round, so these individuals can take the next step in their education at their own pace.

Hess Educational Loans are available to help qualified students pay tuition and fees for higher education. Applications are typically reviewed three times each year for high school, continuing college or adult students pursuing a 2 or 4-year degree. For adult students pursuing certifications or other non-degree programs, year-round applications with quick-turnaround decisions are now available.

“We recognize that adults don’t operate on semesters, and adult education programs can start at various times throughout the year,” said Lanie Hartge, ACCF’s Educational Programs Director. “By creating a program specifically for adults, we are able to meet the needs of students pursuing certificates and other non-degree programs.”

Hess Loans are an exclusive Ashland County advantage made possible by a generous gift of Dr. and Mrs. Gilbert Hess in 1923. These loans are interest-free during the time the student is in school plus one year. After that time, interest is charged at the current prime rate.

Ashland County residents who are entering or currently enrolled in an Adult Education program are invited to visit www.ashlandforgood.org/educational-loans to learn more and take an eligibility quiz to see if they qualify.

“We’re excited to offer this new program, which was developed in alignment with our strategic priority of strengthening Ashland County’s workforce,” said Jim Cutright, ACCF President/CEO. “We hope that with a more flexible timeline, more adults will be able to take advantage of this financial assistance as they work toward their career goals.”

Applications for assistance with certificate and other non-degree programs can be submitted at any time with notification of loan approval or denial within three weeks.

For graduating high school seniors, continuing college students and adults pursuing degrees, application deadlines are November 1 for spring semester, March 1 for summer programs and June 15 for fall semester.

About Ashland County Community Foundation: Ashland County Community Foundation advances philanthropy and improves the quality of life in Ashland County by connecting people who care with causes that matter. ACCF has awarded over $33 million in scholarships, grants and distributions.

Fatal Crash on Bowman Street Road near Myers Road

Joe Lyons • October 3, 2024

Franklin Township – The Ohio State Highway Patrol, Mansfield Post, is investigating a fatal crash involving a 2019 Nissan Rogue and a Richland County Highway Department worker.

The Richland County Highway Department was completing intermittent moving road maintenance along Bowman Street Road, between Myers Road and Amoy West Road.

Delana Kunz, age 43 of Shelby, Ohio, was operating a white Nissan Rogue SUV southeast on Bowman Street Road, south of Myers Road. Trenton Gallaway, age 20 of Lucas, Ohio, was outside of a Highway Department vehicle when he was struck, while the Nissan Rogue was attempting to pass on the left.

As a result of the collision, Mr. Gallaway succumbed to his injuries at the scene. The crash occurred on October 2, 2024, at approximately 2:24 P.M.

The Mansfield Post was assisted by the Richland County Sheriff’s Office, Franklin Township Fire & EMS, Weller Township Fire & EMS, Richland County Coroner and Ronk’s Towing.

The crash remains under investigation.