Tag: clermont county

  • Clermont County Board of Commissioners select partnerships for Federal grants

    Clermont County Board of Commissioners select partnerships for Federal grants

    Batavia, Ohio – Nearly $1.75 million in federal funds have been targeted for a variety of projects to benefit communities and non-profits throughout Clermont County, ranging from home repairs for seniors to a program that teaches about gardening and healthy food preparation.

    The Clermont County Board of Commissioners on June 28 selected the 2023 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME Investment Partnerships Program (HOME) projects to be included in the Action Plan to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

    CDBG projects were selected from 2023 CDBG applications as submitted from local jurisdictions and non-profits. Projects were awarded based on the overall benefit to low and moderate income areas and persons.

    The Clermont County Department of Community and Economic Development (CED) works with communities to leverage multiple funding sources for their projects, such as CDBG, HOME, Capital Bill Funds, ODOD Demolition Funds, OPWC, FEMA, FAA, OEPA, as well as others.

    The 2023 CDBG projects include:

    Clermont Senior Services Inc. Home Safety Repair Program: $115,000
    Home Repairs for Seniors including accessibility, furnace, plumbing, electrical repairs. Many wheel chair ramps and grab bars that keep seniors living in their homes and damaged floor repairs will be completed. It is estimated that 36 families and over 50 people will be assisted.

    Clermont County Community Alternative Sentencing Center (CASC): $71,000
    This is the very successful program the Board has funded for a number of years as an alternative to jail for those residents struggling with addictions. This provides much needed counseling and treatment and helps many of our residents turn their lives around.

    Clermont County General Health District Homeowner Septic Rehab Program: $100,000
    Fund 10-15 septic system repairs or replacements for Low income residents through forgivable loan. The Health Department will combine these funds with WPCLF and H2Ohio funding from Ohio EPA.

    Clermont County General Health District Newtonsville Sewer Connection Program: $100,000
    Fund 10-15 sewer connections for low income residents through forgivable loan.

    Housing Opportunities Made Equal Fair Housing Program: $15,000
    HUD required Fair Housing Program. This organization provides fair housing training to groups such as realtors and landlords and assists renters when they have complaints or concerns about their housing situation.

    Ohio Township Mt. Pisgah Playground Phase 2: $12,000
    Replace outdated playground equipment at Mt. Pisgah Park.

    OSU Extension Clermont County Demonstration Gardens/Food Science Lab: $82,000
    Construct demonstration vegetable gardens and replace outdated food science kitchen for demonstration of gardening and healthy food preparation to JFS Clients and other low to moderate income persons.

    Felicity Franklin PTO Felicity Cool Tools for School: $10,000
    Purchase of school supplies for children of needy families including backpacks, binders, pencils. This program was run successfully before but funding has been lost currently for the program. Approximately 300 back packs will be stocked with supplies and additional supplies on hand during the school year.

    Streetlight Ministry Homeless Outreach Program: $25,000
    Outreach to homeless in form of sleeping bags, meals, clothing, transportation, ID and Birth certificates, and connecting clients with services such as helping them with IDs and Birth Certificates.

    Tate Township Parking Lot at Bethel Cemetery/Park: $90,000
    Construction of parking lot with paving. Township has provided the gravel base which is installed. The Township has purchased additional land adjacent for a park and plans for trails.

    Wayne Township Former Newtonsville School Roof: $70,000
    Pay 70% of Roof for building up to maximum of $70,000. The building houses two non-profit food pantries that serve the LMI community.

    Williamsburg Township Emergency Service Building Upgrades: $147,000
    Upgrade outdated and dangerous electric system in building to operate while on backup generator already purchased. Switch electric from 3 phase to 1 phase.3 new HVAC Units that operate on 1 phase electric. Update Kitchen for EMS/ Fire employees.

    Clermont County Community and Economic Development (CED) planning and administration of grants: $189,469

    The 2023  HOME projects include:

    Clermont Housing Corporation (CMHA) Veterans Village Housing Project: $640,000

    Clermont County Community and Economic Development (CED) planning and administration of grants: $70,000

    • Clermont County Community and Economic Development (CED) activity delivery: $40,000
  • Ramsey-Paxton Cemetery featured at Clermont County Recorder’s office

    Ramsey-Paxton Cemetery featured at Clermont County Recorder’s office

    Loveland, Ohio – This month, a Ramsey-Paxton Cemetery display is at the Clermont County Administration Building, Recorder’s office.

    The Ramsey-Paxton Cemetery officially has been classified as a historical site within the city.
    Rob Geiger  (L) receives historical marker from City Manager Dave Kennedy
    At the Jan. 24, 2023, Loveland City Council meeting, Rob Geiger of the Ramsey-Paxton Cemetery Association was presented with the plaque for a designated historical place. The plaque will be installed at the cemetery.
    The cemetery is located in the White Pillars subdivision off SR 48.
    The Ramsey-Paxton Cemetery originated in 1813 with the burial of Lt. Col. Thomas Paxton, a Revolutionary War Soldier, on land that he received for his military service.
    _______________________

    BACKGROUND:

  • Everything you need to know: 4th of July events in Loveland, Ohio

    Everything you need to know: 4th of July events in Loveland, Ohio

     

    Right Click to Enlarge Map

    Download, save to your phone or tablet or print map

    David Miller is the managing Editor of Loveland Magazine

    by David Miller

    Loveland, Ohio – Special events must provide additional accessible parking and restrooms based on the anticipated number of people who will attend. After our request, City Hall has provided Loveland Magazine with some information for persons with a disability who may need parking spots, accessible bathrooms, or shuttle service for the 4th of July event that will be held in Historic Downtown. Loveland Magazine has provided additional information.

    • The accessible restrooms at the Loveland Bike Trail will be open at Nisbet Park.

    • There will be accessible portable toilets placed along/near the Loveland Bike Trail in the Linda J. Cox Trailside Parking lot, near Browns Crossing, and near Harrison Avenue.

    Map of Historic Downtown.

    • For the downtown vicinity, there are existing accessible parking spots at Nisbet Park, the Firefighters’ MemorialCity Hall, and Linda J. Cox Trailside Parking lot.

    • There will also be added, temporary accessible parking spots along the Loveland Bike Trail near Nisbet Park.

     The shuttle service to the festival is not accessible for persons with a disability.

    Here is the guide to the day’s activities

    Railroad Avenue will be temporarily closed from 2 PM until 11 PM to through traffic on July 4th. There will also be a temporary road closure along the parade route from approximately 6:30 PM until 8:30 PM.

    The Parade Route

    • The parade starts on Loveland-Madeira Road near the Loveland Elementary School at 7 PM.
    • It proceeds north on Loveland-Madeira Road to West Loveland Avenue.
    • The parade ends at West Loveland Avenue and the State Route 48/Second Street intersection.

    West Loveland Avenue will be closed from Riverside Drive to Karl Brown Way During the fireworks from approximately 10 PM until 10:30 PM.

    Parking Restrictions

    Some parking will be restricted due to parade and shuttle routes. Some parking spaces will be affected on the following streets:

    • West Loveland Avenue in Historic Downtown
    • Park Avenue
    • Riverside Drive
    • Third Street
    • Railroad Avenue
    • Harrison Avenue

    Kiwanis Park, including the Matt Haverkamp Foundation Dog Park, will be closed to event parking. In addition, the dog park will close at noon on July 4.

    Parking in Historic Downtown

    The city operates more than 10 free public lots. View parking map.

    Parking fees will be waived in the City Hall/Works lot on July 4.

    Keep in mind there are also private lots throughout Historic Downtown and fees may be charged.

    Right Click to Enlarge Map

    Shuttle 

    There are FREE shuttle rides that will run continuously from 4 PM until 11 PM.

    The shuttle is not accessible to persons with a handicap.

    Park-and-ride shuttle locations will be at Loveland High School (1 Tiger Trail) and the Loveland Early Childhood Center (6740 Loveland-Miamiville Road). Drop-off locations will be at Riverside Drive (near Veterans’ Memorial) and Third Street (near Whistle Stop Clay Works).

    A free concert by the band, Pandora Effect be at the Nisbet Park Amphitheater from 8 PM until 10 PM. The band played in the FanZone at GABP when the Atlanta Braves were in town for a sold-out game.

    More

    Concert & Cornhole Tournament — 3 PM until 6 PM — Jackson Street Market

    Live music by Thing1Thing2.

    Kid Zone — 4 PM until 6:30 PM Nisbet Park

    • Meet an FC Cincinnati player
    • Games
    • Reptile petting zoo
    • The Loveland Frog, princesses, and superheroes
    • Loveland High School Robotics Team
    • Martial arts and dance/gymnastics demos
    • Photo opportunities
    • SURPRISE live entertainment
    • And more

    Lawn Games — 4 PM until 6:30 PM — Fountain Greene (Near Fleet Feet)
    NEST Community Learning Center will host lawn games.

    Yankee Doodle Dog Show — 4 PM — Nisbet Park
    Meet at 3:45 PM at the Clock Tower in Downtown Loveland (near the Bike Trail crossing). Dogs will parade toward Nisbet Park at 4 PM. Three dogs will be selected as best-dressed winners and will receive a prize basket from Pet Wants.

    Water Zone — 4 PM until 8 PM — City Hall Lawn
    There will be a giant inflatable water slide and misting fans, plus a splash station for little ones.

    Food Trucks — 4 PM until 10 PM
    Food truck vendors will be available throughout the downtown area.

    Bingo — 5 PM & 8:30 PM — City Hall
    Take a break from the heat to play a few cards of bingo! An afternoon and evening session will be held. Prizes for game winners. Monetary donations will be accepted with all proceeds going toward the Ben Morrison Memorial Fund, which provides scholarships to Loveland High School seniors.

    Kids’ Bike Contest — 6:15 PM — Loveland Elementary School
    Decorate your bike/scooter/tricycle for the holiday, and meet at Loveland Elementary School (600 Loveland-Madeira Road) to take part in this annual tradition. Children will gather and then take part in the parade at 7 PM. Trailside Provisions has donated prizes for the top 3 entries.

    Pie Eating Contest — 8:30 PM — Little Miami Conservancy at Nisbet Park (Little Miami Scenic River and Trail Center)
    There is an online signup to help gauge interest. Pre-register if you would like to participate.
  • Council endorses request by residents for Grailville grant application filing

    Council endorses request by residents for Grailville grant application filing

    The request must still go before Miami Township and Clermont County leaders

    David Miller is the Managing Editor of Loveland Magazine

    by David Miller

    Loveland, Ohio – On Tuesday the Loveland City Council approved a request by the Cardinal Land Conservancy to put their mark of support on a plan that could save 89 acres at Grailville as dedicated green space in perpetuity. Andy Dickerson, on behalf of the Conservancy, appeared at the meeting requesting a vote of support for a grant application that would be submitted to the Clean Ohio Conservation Fund, for funding the purchase of the 89 acres of Grail property that is within the city’s corporation boundaries.

    After their successful effort to convince Loveland Council to support the plan they worked on for a year, some members of the Grailville Land Preservation Group posed for a photo. Laurie Kiley, Kevin Kiley, Sharon Scovanner, Andy Dickerson, Elizabeth Murphy, Elizabeth Robinson, Mary Lu Lageman, Jamie Smith, and Loretta Rokey.

    After Council unanimously approved the request Dickerson expressed caution because the Conservancy will still need the support of the Miami Township Trustees and the Clermont County Commissioners.

    This is the site where Drees Homes was denied the zoning change they requested in 2022 after local residents filled Planning and Zoning chambers to urge that the site be protected. The Kentucky home builder had requested the land become a Special Planning District which could have allowed 209 homes on the site. The same parcel is also where the Loveland City School District proposed building a campus until the funding they wanted was denied by voters in 2019. The site is bounded by O’Bannonville Road and State Route 48 (Oakland Road).

    After the re-zoning Drees requested was denied, local Grail members and other local residents coalesced to find the solution that was presented to City Council on Tuesday. Many of them sat in council chambers to hear the presentation.

    The Grailville Land Preservation Group worked together to stop the zoning change for Drees. Four members of the conservation subcommittee of the larger group consisted of Lauren Enda, Kevin Kiley, Jamie Smith, and Sharon Scovanner.

    Sharon Scovanner told Loveland Magazine today, “I want to make it clear that both the big group and our subcommittee were very important to our success. This was a case of many members of the community coming together with the goal of preserving the land. We are grateful that ‘corporate’ Grail agreed to provide a 25% match for the grant and to the local Grail women, several of who worked alongside us wanted to find a solution. Of course, we have been honored to partner with Cardinal to help facilitate an agreement that is good for the Grail and the community.”

    If the grant application is successful, the 89 acres of land would be deeded as dedicated green space in perpetuity. The proposed purchase by the conservancy would be adjacent to the 100-acre Clermont County Park District property, which was also acquired from the Grail using Clean Ohio funding.

    In this first LOVELAND MAGAZINE TV video, Andy Dickerson explains the details of the grant and what he was asking the Council to do.

    In this second LOVELAND MAGAZINE TV video, Council members ask questions and vote on the resolution of support.

    In this third LOVELAND MAGAZINE TV video, residents and Grail members spoke with cautious optimism about the first public step they made in announcing the plan they had worked toward since Drees first proposed building 209 homes on the site.

    About Cardinal Land Conservancy

    Their address is 790 Garfield Avenue in Milford.

    Cardinal Land Conservancy is a private, nonprofit, 501c3 tax-exempt conservation organization, incorporated in September 1999 under the laws of the state of Ohio. Cardinal is a member of the Land Trust Alliance (LTA), a national organization, and Coalition of Ohio Land Trusts (COLT). Cardinal earned LTA accreditation in 2019 and uses LTA’s “Land Trust Standards and Practices” to guide our work as we grow. This accreditation confirms that Cardinal practices sound finances, ethical conduct, responsible governance, and lasting stewardship.

    Cardinal Land Conservancy, formerly known as the Citizen’s Land Conservancy of Hamilton County (“the Conservancy”), is a non-profit, 501(c)(3) land preservation organization and land trust. Cardinal holds the title to 11 nature preserves.

    Cardinal Land Conservancy is a land conservancy in Southwest Ohio whose mission is to preserve natural habitats, waterways, agricultural lands, and open space in Southwest Ohio.

    We protect and restore natural lands with significant habitats that support native wildlife and create scenic vistas for public enjoyment, as well as agricultural lands suitable for the production of food, timber, or other cultivated or natural products. Cardinal acquires conservation interests in real properties which it then monitors and stewards in perpetuity. These include conservation easements, fee simple title, and other conservation interests which are acquired through donations and purchases guided by, and executed through, Cardinal. Once obtained, Cardinal monitors and otherwise stewards the properties and interests through regular oversight, periodic assessment and, if needed, protective action and legal defense. Our service area includes the Southwestern Ohio counties: Adams, Brown, Clermont, Clinton, Hamilton, Highland, and Warren.

    Rinsky Woods Nature Preserve

    Clermont County

    There are few woods like this in the world. Those woods that exist are found only in Southwest Ohio and Southeast Indiana. Rinksy Woods is the second largest woods of this kind in the world. In fact, it has been designated as an Ohio Natural Landmark by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources. These wet flat woods are adjacent to Stonelick State Park, adding to an admirable stretch of greenspace in the area. Details & Trail Map

    Todd’s Fork Nature Preserve

    Clinton County

    Native prairies give way to a 100+ acre woods on this preserve, which also includes the Todd’s Fork of the Little Miami River. Cardinal has several stewardship projects ongoing here including maintenance of the prairie. Maintenance includes prescribed burning which is meant to discourage unwanted invasive plants on an annual basis. Details & Trail Map

    Kope Hollow Nature Preserve

    Brown County

    In Southeast Brown County, the Kope formation (a bedrock formation unique to Southern Ohio and Indiana) runs through incredibly diverse woods. A recent native plant survey listed over 100 native species. This property is also graced with five waterfalls that contribute to Roup’s Run. This water flows into the Ohio River just beyond the bounds of the property. Details & Trail Map

    Bortz Family Nature Preserve

    Hamilton County

    This 119-acre preserve offers respite in deep and cool woods along with views of the wide Ohio and of the Little Miami’s emerald shores. This land appeals to both humans and wildlife because of its diversity. The Ohio Department of Natural Resources determined that this land is likely the home of the endangered Indiana Bat and several endangered species of mussels. Overlooking the confluence of these two great rivers is an American Bald Eagle nest, atop a towering cottonwood tree. Our eagles can be viewed by our Eagle Camera from January to June! Details & Trail Map

    Read about the other nature preserve of the Cardinal Land Conservancy.

    Send email to lovelandmagazine@cinci.rr.com
  • Air Alert extended into Thursday

    Air Alert extended into Thursday

    Historic Downtown Loveland, Ohio on Wednesday afternoon (Photo by David Miller)

    Loveland, Ohio – The Southwest Ohio Air Quality Agency is extending the Air Quality Alert into Thursday, June 29 through 11:59 PM for Butler, Clermont, Hamilton, and Warren counties in Ohio; Boone, Campbell, and Kenton counties in Kentucky; and Dearborn County in Indiana.

    The Agency expects to see levels of both ozone and PM2.5 (due to Canada wildfires) in the “Unhealthy” range on the Air Quality Index (AQI). Because there are two air pollutants with high concentrations, the general public is encouraged to limit their outdoor exertion, especially children, those with respiratory illnesses, and older adults. Refer to U.S. EPA’s health guide here.

    Everyone can reduce PM2.5 by following these guidelines:

    • Never burn leaves or other yard trimmings.
    • Suspend use of fire pits, campfires, and charcoal grills on Air Quality Alert days.
    The intersection of Rich and Fallis Roads on Wednesday afternoon from Loveland High School. (Photo by David Miller)

    Everyone can help reduce ozone formation by taking the following actions: 

    • Telecommute.
    • Do not idle your vehicle; exhaust contributes considerably to ozone formation.
    • Combine trips or eliminate unnecessary vehicle trips.
  • Watch Angels by the Trail Mural dedication and interviews

    Watch Angels by the Trail Mural dedication and interviews

    Loveland, Ohio – The public was invited to the Loveland Bike Trail to officially dedicate the “Angels by the Trail” Mural on Sunday morning. The ceremony and ribbon cutting took place at the Linda Cox Parking lot in Historic Downtown Loveland. The mural has been painted on the side of an Eads Fence and Hardware industrial building that faces the trail. As a way of giving back to the community, a group of Loveland Area residents, led by Stacie Lund created a mural that is named “Angels by the Trail”. This colorful 65 X 20 foot memorial mural is in memory of Loveland Area children who lost their lives much too soon.

    Follow Angels by the Trail on FaceBook.

    Watch this LOVELAND MAGAZINE TV interview with the muralist, David Uy.

     

    The public is invited to submit more names

    If you would like to have a Angel’s name, a child who has passed on and was a resident of the Loveland community and was between the ages of 3-23 added to the mural, please click the following link.

    Angels by the Trail Submission Form

    On the GoFundMe page created for the project you can contribute to the expenses, Lund said, “Our hope is that the conversion of this plain industrial wall into the “Angels by the Trail” installation will bring joy to the families of these children and those who love them and will give our community another beautiful, bright and cheerful landmark and backdrop within our special home of Loveland.”

    Follow Angels by the Trail on FaceBook.

     

  • West Loveland Avenue Closure Begins Sunday morning

    West Loveland Avenue Closure Begins Sunday morning

    Loveland, Ohio – The divisions within the City will reach a decades-old high Sunday morning when repairs to level the railroad crossing on West Loveland Avenues begins.

    The railroad crossing will be repaired starting at 6:30 AM Sunday, June 11, and reopen sometime on Tuesday, June 13.

    Genesee & Wyoming Inc Railroad will replace “significant” portions of rail, rail subgrade, track seals, and pavement.

    The railroad underpass on Karl Brown Way at Loveland Canoe and Kayak only accommodates vehicles less than 8′ in height.

    ___________________________

    A storm is brewin’

    I wanted to sit on those cold, grayish steel tracks and watch the moon disappear when the big mother star rose to take over and warm us. With Loretta allowing me to sit increasingly closer, wrapping my arm tighter around her waist to do so until it did.

    Ears peeled for the whistle and bell and returning when the caboose trailed.

    Then laying down on the ties using the steel for a pillow so we could count the stars which wouldn’t be enough to equal the ways or whys.

    by David Miller

    ___________________________

  • [VIDEO] Sergeant Dave Corlett spoke of three fallen American heroes who died unreasonably young

    [VIDEO] Sergeant Dave Corlett spoke of three fallen American heroes who died unreasonably young

    Loveland, Ohio – The Loveland Memorial Day ceremony featured a speech by Sergeant Dave Corlett, an Army veteran who served in Iraq and a 31-year member of the Cincinnati Police Department. An already somber crowd grew silent as he spoke and told the stories of three friends and colleagues, fallen American heroes who died unreasonably young.

    Sergeant Corlett is the founder of the Military Liaison Group within the Cincinnati Police Department and an instructor with the Hamilton County Mental Health Crisis Teams. He has worked with Veterans Affairs and the local court system to improve relations between military veterans and law enforcement. His efforts have been recognized by the Department of Justice (DOJ), and he was the winner of the DOJ’s 2021 L. Anthony Sutin Award for Innovative Law Enforcement and Community Partnerships.

    Before joining the Cincinnati Police Department in 1992, Sergeant Corlett was a member of the United States Army. He was assigned to Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, 24th Aviation Regiment where he served in Iraq during Operations Desert Storm and Desert Shield.

    Loveland Magazine takes great pride in honoring and remembering the brave men and women who have served our country. This Memorial Day, we invite everyone to come together, pay tribute to the fallen heroes, and celebrate the freedom and values they have fought for and died to protect. We honor the sacrifice of so many families.


    An Extraordinary Plea

    Dear Loveland Area Friends,

    We are one keystroke and one shutter click away from a technological disaster.

    We work from 11-year-old computers and an eight-year-old video camera. This video took perhaps 20 hours longer to edit and produce than it should have because of the antiquated equipment we use.

    If you see yourself in this video, a loved one, a best friend, or your favorite Veteran, will you please consider making a donation today?

    If you now live out of town or just couldn’t be there and this video adds value to your life by us bringing you to the parade, will you please consider making a donation today?

    With great appreciation and love,

    David, Cassie, (and Sean)

    Loveland Magazine
    243 Wall Street
    Loveland, Ohio 45140

  • Photos from Loveland Memorial Day Parade by Sean Behling

    Photos from Loveland Memorial Day Parade by Sean Behling

    Sean Behling
    Loveland Magazine reporter Sean Behling

    Loveland, Ohio – These still photos were taken by Loveland Magazine reporter Sean Behling as he walked the Memorial Day Parade route on May 27. They are of the people in the parade and some who gathered along West Loveland Avenue in the West Loveland Historic District to watch.


    An Extraordinary Plea

    Dear Loveland Area Friends,

    We are one keystroke and one shutter click away from a technological disaster.

    We work from 11-year-old computers and an eight-year-old video camera. This video took perhaps 20 hours longer to edit and produce than it should have because of the antiquated equipment we use.

    If you see yourself in this video, a loved one, a best friend, or your favorite Veteran, will you please consider making a donation today?

    If you now live out of town or just couldn’t be there and this video adds value to your life by us bringing you to the parade, will you please consider making a donation today?

    With great appreciation and love,

    David, Cassie, (and Sean)

    Loveland Magazine
    243 Wall Street
    Loveland, Ohio 45140

     

     

  • [VIDEO] Ralph Dunnigan named Colonel Paxton Ranger

    [VIDEO] Ralph Dunnigan named Colonel Paxton Ranger

    Ralph Dunnigan, Kevin Egan, and Mayor Kathy Bailey

     

    Loveland, Ohio – Ralph Dunnigan, the semi-retired owner of Paxton’s Grill in Historic Downtown Loveland was named a Colonel Paxton Ranger; an “award that recognizes distinguished service by Loveland area citizens who improve the city Colonel Thomas Paxton founded”. The Loveland area was first settled in 1795 by Col. Thomas Paxton.

    One of the co-owners of Paxton’s, Kevin Egan was present at Tuesday’s council meeting and praised all that Dunnigan has done for the City since the restaurant opened in 2004. Dunnigan, through Paxton’s, has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars supporting local charities.

    This LOVELAND MAGAZINE TV video is brought to you by the generous support of…