Mark Volpatti Wilmington, OH (November 3, 2025)— Wilmington College has named Mark C. Volpatti as the institution’s next chief financial officer/vice president for business affairs. A seasoned higher education finance and operations professional, he most recently has served as the senior vice president for finance and administration, chief financial officer, and treasurer at Valparaiso (IN) University. WC President Corey Cockerill announced Volpatti’s appointment following a national search that elicited interest from a pool of highly qualified candidates, three of whom were invited to engage in on-campus interviews. “We are thrilled to welcome Mark to Wilmington College,” she said. “His proven leadership and depth of experience in higher education finance will be instrumental in supporting our mission and ensuring the long-term financial vitality of the institution.” Adam Lohrey, vice president for enrollment management and marketing, led the search committee. “Upon review of candidates with the search committee, Mark stood out for his proven experience in higher education financial management,” he noted. “Later, meeting Mark on campus, it was easy to see a great fit for the institution, with alignment of his skills and the unique needs and values of Wilmington College.” Volpatti expressed his excitement about joining the campus community. “I truly look forward to collaborating with colleagues at Wilmington College to advance the strategic priorities of the institution, he said. “As was evident throughout the interview process, I could sense a strong alignment between Wilmington's values and my own.” Reporting directly to the president, Volpatti will be responsible for providing strategic leadership for the College’s financial management while also guiding initiatives that strengthen revenue and external partnerships. He will oversee WC’s financial planning and operations, including budgeting, forecasting, reporting, investment management, compliance, and debt strategy. In addition to these core CFO functions, he will play a role in advancing business development initiatives that complement academic priorities and create alternative revenue streams. Volpatti is a Certified Public Accountant and holds a Doctor of Education degree in higher education administration, a Master of Science degree in accounting, and a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration degree, all from Indiana University. Prior to his work at Valparaiso, he served as the associate vice chancellor and director of finance and administration for six years at Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI). Also, he held several other business and finance positions at IUPUI during the previous 14 years. Volpatti will start his position in January. Article Submitted by Wilmington College.

Laurel Oaks Career Campus On October 22, 2025, the Clinton County Workforce Collaborative (CCWC) hosted its 4th Annual Clinton County Career Exploration Fair for local high school students to showcase the careers available to them in Clinton County. The fair featured 31 employers and hosted over 500 students from all four county schools, in addition to the Wilmington Christian Academy. According to Ruth Brindle, Workforce & Data Specialist with the Clinton County Port Authority and representative on the CCWC, the event is aimed at sophomores because that is when students decide whether they would like to attend Laural Oaks Career Campus or stay at their “home school.” Blanchester High School brought 109 students. Clinton Massie brought 50 students. East Clinton High School brought 88 students. Wilmington Christian Academy brought 42 students. Wilmington High School brought 161 sophomores and 54 seniors.  Among the 31 employers at the event were companies representing careers in manufacturing, construction, aviation, healthcare, childcare and education, logistics and trucking, public safety and service, and banking and insurance. Each category highlighted local employers such as ATSG, Wilmington Savings Bank, Peoples Bank, Wilmington College, Ohio Living Cape May, Clinton Regional Hospital, Timbertech, R&L Carriers, the City of Wilmington, and more. According to Brindle, the CCWC brainstormed the event in 2021, inspired by similar events. They held their first career exploration fair in 2022 with the help of Junior Achievement, a national organization known for hosting career fairs. Brindle stated, “This is really aimed at helping students think about what is it that they think they want to do… So, having the breadth of different kinds of employers is also about helping students see, not just within one employer or within one industry, what all of the different options are, but what are all of the options just within Clinton County.” The Clinton County Workforce Collaborative is a group of individuals who have “any touch point onto workforce development” in Clinton County, according to Brindle. The workforce collaborative has a steering committee of four individuals from the four formal organizations that “brought the whole group together.” On the steering committee are: Curt Bradshaw, Superintendent of the Southern Ohio Educational Service Center; Ruth Brindle, Workforce & Data Specialist with the Clinton County Port Authority;  Amanda Haggerty, Senior Case Manager for OhioMeansJobs Clinton County; and Dessie Rogers, Executive Director of the Wilmington-Clinton County Chamber of Commerce. The CCWC also employs Conner Wyatt for the Workforce Development Program under the Southern Ohio Educational Service Center.  To learn more about the Clinton County Workforce Collaborative, visit chooseclintoncountyoh.org/clinton-county-workforce-collaborative .

Board of Trustees members Jonathan McKay (left) and David Raizk witness President Corey Cockerill signing documents for the College to take ownership of the former Bright Farms property. Wilmington, OH (October 30, 2025)— Wilmington College announced its recent purchase of the BrightFarms facility in Wilmington and revealed plans to revitalize the shuttered space into the Wilmington College Agriscience Complex. The acquisition includes the existing 120,000 square-foot hydroponic greenhouse, as well as an adjacent 20 acres bordering the College’s 267-acre Academic Farm. Securing this facility represents a significant step in the College’s strategic vision associated with its marquee agriculture program, which, this fall, welcomed one of its largest incoming classes ever. Agriculture concentrations comprise the largest academic area at WC, accounting for a third of the institution’s main campus student enrollment. The College plans to transform the former commercial greenhouse into the Wilmington College Agriscience Complex, a living-learning laboratory fewer than three miles from the main campus. It will integrate crop science, animal science, agribusiness, and food systems under one roof. This revitalized facility will include classrooms and laboratory renovations and an upgraded greenhouse infrastructure to support advanced agricultural research, sustainability initiatives, and workforce training. A portion of the greenhouse can be renovated into a livestock handling facility that supports training in animal nutrition, reproduction, and pre-veterinary science. Also, a 120’ x 240’ livestock and equine show arena will be constructed on the property. College officials expect the repurposing of the greenhouse to begin as soon as possible, so students can start using the Agriscience Complex as early as fall 2026. President Corey Cockerill said the Agriscience Complex will be a “game-changer” that represents one of the boldest moves in the nearly 80-year history of WC’s agriculture program. “The facility will serve as a hub for hands-on learning, applied research, and community engagement,” she said. “A place where students train across livestock production, pre-veterinary science, meat science, agribusiness, and food systems, while also advancing solutions in sustainability and food security.” Cockerill added that the Agriscience Complex will play a key role in training for agricultural careers in Ohio’s $124 billion agriculture industry, which she said is at a critical crossroads. “Rising food insecurity, rapid technological change, and the generational transfer of knowledge as farmers retire have created an urgent demand for a workforce prepared to meet today’s — and tomorrow’s — agricultural challenges.” BrightFarms opened its $10 million greenhouse at 780 Davids Drive in 2018 as a facility for growing salad greens, herbs, and tomatoes year-round for regional distribution. T. Alex Beres, executive director of the Clinton County Port Authority, said the College’s purchase and redevelopment of the BrightFarms property represents the kind of strategic investment that drives sustainable economic growth in the county. “By reimagining the recently vacated greenhouse into a state-of-the-art agricultural center, the College is creating a vital community asset that enhances the diversity of our economic base,” he said, noting the Port Authority maintained active communication with the facility’s prior ownership and other entities, and managed existing economic development agreements to ensure this transfer and redevelopment could happen quickly and seamlessly. The timing of the property’s availability coincided with the College’s ambition to grow its agriculture program. WC has been raising funds for a proposed agriculture pavilion adjacent to its Equine Center on Fife Ave. Ultimately, the proposed pavilion project has evolved to what the College realized could be accomplished — for less money — at the former BrightFarms property. Fundraising continues for, now, the Wilmington College Agriscience Complex. “We still need financial support to develop and expand the property for a truly integrated agricultural complex,” the president added, while noting the Board of Trustees gave the green light to ready the facility for student use by fall 2026. The greenhouse features existing offices, restrooms, a paved driveway and parking lot, commercial-grade utilities, ADA accessibility, and other professional spaces that can be readily repurposed into classrooms and labs. Also, BrightFarms had excavated and prepared land for a future facility expansion, so the space for WC’s livestock show arena enjoys construction-ready status. The arena, which will have seating for up to 1,000, will be a venue capable of hosting statewide livestock and equestrian competitions, FFA and 4-H events, and applied learning workshops. The WC Aggies student organization has hosted an annual high school judging competition (livestock, equine, poultry, and agronomy) for nearly seven decades. Attracting more than 1,500 competitors in recent years, the Aggies’ Judging Contest long ago outgrew local facilities and relocated to Clark County. Bringing this popular event back to Wilmington, where the College’s impressive new facilities will be on display, is expected to have a significant effect on student recruitment. Adam Lohrey, vice president for enrollment management and marketing, concurred with Cockerill’s description of the Agriscience Complex as a “game-changer.” He noted this “incredible expansion” of facilities will allow the College to continue accelerated growth in enrollment by providing an industry-leading learning environment. “Our reputation in the agriculture industry is grounded in the preparation of students through experiential learning,” he added. “The complex will empower faculty to prepare students for impact on the agriculture industry. It demonstrates our commitment to many future generations of highly educated agriculture leaders.” J. Wynn Alexander, vice president for academic affairs and dean of faculty, said the College’s investment in the complex comes at a time of increased interest and institutional growth in the agriculture program, while the growth in agricultural careers and the importance of agricultural education is at an all-time high. “The number of ag students has literally outgrown our classrooms, faculty resources, and laboratory spaces for the institution to maintain the applied nature, which is one of the hallmarks of a Wilmington College education,” Alexander said. “This acquisition will not only serve our existing students but will allow us to grow to expand our agricultural outreach, broaden our educational portfolio of programs, and provide workforce development opportunities that will serve the agricultural needs of the future.  “This is the right purchase, at the right time, for the right reasons.”   Indeed, building the Agriscience Complex is informed by the College’s strategic plan, In Common Cause, which features seven pillars for guiding the institution from 2024 through 2027. One pillar specifies “elevating agriculture to advance signature curricular and co-curricular opportunities locally, regionally, and on a global scope.” Dr. Chad McKay, associate professor, area coordinator for agriculture, and Endowed Chair of Agribusiness and Leadership, noted the purchase of BrightFarms “marks a new era” for agriculture at WC and dovetails well with the College’s introduction of a Master of Science in Agriculture degree program starting next fall. “It’s an era where innovation meets hands-on learning in the pursuit of a more sustainable future,” he said. “It reflects our commitment to preparing students not just to work in agriculture, but to shape its future, no matter if you were born and raised on a farm or if your first experience with agriculture is our courses. There is something for everyone interested in agriculture at Wilmington College.” McKay is also a WC alumnus who’s aware of the venerable program’s many milestones since its founding in 1947, growing from the original animal science curriculum to six academic concentrations, to the largest major at the College, “The building of the Wilmington College Agriscience Complex is a testament to how far our agricultural roots have grown while still staying true to hands-on learning and community values,” he added. “It's inspiring to see the next generation of WC students gaining opportunities that will keep our legacy thriving and our future bright.” Article Submitted by Wilmington College

Food Resources in Wilmington, Ohio Food is a basic human need and going hungry should not be a worry. This page will help link you to the SNAP assistance program and gives you access to view the food pantry and soup kitchen schedule for Wilmington. Table of Contents Food Financial Assistance ( view ) Food Pantries ( view ) Food Financial Assistance SNAP Food Assistance (Food Stamps) SNAP is available through Ohio Jobs & Family Services ( website ) by calling them at (866) 635-3748 or visiting their office located at 1025 S South St # 200, Wilmington, OH 45177 . If you need assistance (issues with transportation, literacy, etc.), you can alternatively work with HealthSource ( website ) to assist you with getting SNAP benefits by calling their local representative coving Clinton County at (513) 707-9901. Clinton County WIC Address: 111 S Nelson Ave, Wilmington, OH 45177 Phone: (937)382-2862 Who is eligible? Pregnant women and children under the age of 5. Authorized Foods List: PDF Download Free & Reduced Lunch Wilmington City School District is participating in the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP). Every enrolled WCS student is automatically eligible to receive a healthy breakfast and lunch meal at no charge each school day. The program covers a full breakfast and lunch meal. Extra food or á la carte items will incur a charge. Laurel Oaks P-EBT Starting this school year, 2022-2023, our food service program will return to normal, pre- pandemic operations. All families should complete and submit a Free/Reduced Meal Application if they would like to see if their students qualify based on the income of all family members. Cafeteria Price Lists: View Here Application and Information Packet: PDF Download Council on Aging Home Delivered Meals Phone: (937)382-7170 Food Pantries Clinton County Community Action Program Provides 3 day food supply. Household is eligible once a month. Photo ID, Proof of Income, Proof of Address Required for Assistance. Address: 789 N. Nelson Ave. Hours: Mon–Fri 8am to 3:30pm Phone: (937) 382-83665 What to Bring: Proof of income for entire household Piece of mail with an address dated with-in the last 30 days ID and Social Security Number Learn More: Website Clinton County Homeless Shelter Hours: Everyday 10am to 2pm Learn More: Website Laurel Oaks Student Food Pantry This pantry is a great resource for students in need of extra food and hygiene at home. Using public donations this pantry helps students have a sense of food security and access to hygiene products. Learn More: Email Sugartree Ministries (Our Father's Kitchen) Sugartree Ministries is a Christian outreach ministry based in Wilmington, OH. Our mission as a ministry is to reach out to the broken and the hurting in our community and help them find hope, freedom and peace. Address: 180 E. Main St. Wilmington, OH 45177 Hours: Food Pantry: Thursdays 11am to 2pm ( Hot meals provided Mon–Sat) Phone: (937) 382-8359 Learn More: Visit Facebook Wilmington Church of God (Elizabeth J. Looney Food Pantry) Please call ahead of time and leave a message telling the number of members in your family. Address: 627 S Nelson Ave. Wilmington, OH 45177 Hours: Last Saturday of the Month 10am to Noon Phone: (937) 382-1587 Wilmington Faith Lutheran Church Meals: 1st & 3rd Wednesday of the Month Learn More: Website Wilmington Friends Church Please call ahead for food vouchers. Address: 66 N. Mulberry St. Wilmington, OH 45177 Hours : 2nd & 4th Monday of the Month 9:30am to 11:30am Phone: (937) 382-2349 What to Bring: ID Social Security Card WHS Food Pantry for WCS Families Wilmington High School has a Food Pantry that has been set up in partnership with the Free Store Food Bank. Any family with a student attending in the Wilmington City School District is eligible for this program. Phone: (937) 382-1641 Learn More: Website Wilmington St. Vincent DePaul Society Address: 73 N. Mulberry St. Wilmington, OH 45177 Hours: Call for Appointment Phone: (937) 382-6851 (must have a local number or they will not return the phone call)

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Shane Claiborne Wilmington, OH (October 23, 2025) — A Wilmington College favorite, Shane Claiborne, is returning to campus this fall to present a talk on “Extreme Love in Extreme Times Can Make a Better World Possible” on Nov. 3, at 7 p.m. in the McCoy Room of Kelly Center. The event is free of charge. This fall’s second program in the Office of Campus Ministry’s Quaker Lecture Series brings back a popular and regular presenter at the College. Campus Minister Nancy McCormick noted, “Shane speaks from his heart about the radical importance of tending to one another in love, no matter what walk of life we come from.”  Shane Claiborne has had a fascinating life growing up in the Bible Belt, introducing himself to Mother Teresa on the phone, and subsequently working with her in Calcutta, getting arrested in Philadelphia’s Love Park for feeding the homeless, and traveling to Iraq during the American bombing. He’s been described as an activist who uses “biographical stories to animate biblical truths, bringing that home and calling us all to join God’s revolution where we are.” Claiborne is a prominent speaker, activist, and best-selling author. The founder of The Simple Way in Philadelphia, he also heads Red Letter Christians, a movement of folks committed to living "as if Jesus meant the things he said." Claiborne is a champion for Divine Grace, which has led him to jail advocating for the homeless, and to places like Iraq and Afghanistan to stand against war. Now, Divine Grace fuels his passion to end the death penalty and help stop gun violence. Claiborne’s books include Jesus for President, Red Letter Revolution, Common Prayer, Follow Me to Freedom, Jesus, Bombs and Ice Cream, Becoming the Answer to Our Prayers, Beating Guns, Executing Grace, and his classic The Irresistible Revolution. His newest book, Rethinking Life, was released in early 2023. His books have been translated into more than a dozen languages. Article Submitted by Wilmington College

Elizabeth Huber & Ryan Carter On August 8, 2025, the Wilmington News Journal (WNJ) announced its printed newspaper would merge with the Washington Court House 'Record-Herald' and the Hillsboro 'Times Gazette' to become 'The Connector.' The three news outlets will still maintain their own unique online websites. Elizabeth Huber, Media Sales Director, stated, "The only thing that really is new is that Clinton County subscribers also get to read Fayette and Highland County news... A lot of the news crosses the lines anyway, so you get more." Prior to the change, the WNJ's printed newspaper was ten pages. It is now 32 pages, adding coverage of ten more schools and popular elements from the other newspapers, like a cooking column. With the rise in print costs, Elizabeth stated, "Raising the price of the paper and keeping it at the ten pages doesn't make more sense than combining the papers, keeping the cost the same, and having more product." She stated that the change has received positive feedback, and has even resulted in new subscribers. The WNJ started in 1838, originally printing two newspapers a day before changing to one paper published Tuesday through Saturday for many years. In 2023, their parent company, AIM Media, reduced their printed newspapers to twice a week. Around this time, the WNJ lost two long-term employees to retirement, and was operating with only one journalist. However, within the past year, the WNJ has increased their coverage in Clinton County with three journalists, and is using their website to post stories as they happen. In addition to providing local news, the WNJ participates in local programs to encourage youth involvement in media. Through the 'Newspapers In Education' program, they provide newspapers to local teachers. They also manage the "logistics" of Wilmington High School's student newspaper by printing and delivering it to the school free of cost. When discussing the importance of communities having a local paper, Ryan Carter, Managing Editor, stated, "The community would lose a lot without a local newspaper... Somebody once told me that a newspaper is kind of like a mirror to the community, you might like certain things that you see... or you might not... That's what we try to be, a mirror of our community." To submit a story or subscribe, email info@wnewsj.com.

Wilmington, OH (October 20, 2025) — Wilmington College Theatre will present the musical, Pippin, on Nov. 20, 21, 22, at 7:30 p.m., in Heiland Theatre in Boyd Cultural Arts Center. Director Bryan Wallingford noted that, with infectious and unforgettable music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz, the composer and lyricist of many beloved musicals, including Godspell, Wicked, and Children of Eden, and book by dramatist and screenwriter Roger O. Hirson, Pippin holds an important place in the American Broadway musical canon. The show finds traveling players gathering to perform the story of one young man's extraordinary journey. Heir to the Frankish throne and son of King Charlemagne the Great, the young prince, Pippin, is in search of the secret to true happiness. On his journey, he encounters the thrills and terrors of the battlefield, the temptations of the flesh, and the intrigue of political power. In the end, though, Pippin finds that happiness lies not in extraordinary endeavors, but rather in the simple moments of everyday living and the honest connections with another person. Pippin's message is both poignant and pressing. The cast is guided by the Leading Player, Emma Schnecker/Dalan Toups. Devon Snyder takes on the role of Pippin with Carlie McCoy as Catherine, a widow who falls in love with the prince. The role of Charles, the king, will be portrayed by Tadeo Palafox, and Ollie Basta will play his scheming third wife, Fastrada. Pippin’s half-brother, Lewis, will be played by Bryce Stambaugh. Mary Alexander will join the cast to play Berthe, Pippin’s lively grandmother. The ensemble of players who make up the dancers, singers, and citizens are Otto Cipollini, Ellie Craig, Nathyn Fulton, Ethan Kau, Hillary LeForge, Teddy Murphy, Claire Newkirk, Ari Rudd, Hannah Schroeder, Nathan Sorn, Makayla Thomason, and Hunter Wood. WC students Spencer Anderson and Elaine Groves serve as the stage managers. In addition to Wallingford as director, the musical direction is by Timothy Larrick, with choreography by Cole Haugh. Jason Burgess, the newest member of the theatre faculty, is providing scenic and lighting design. Bekah Wall offers vocal coaching and support to the cast, while Tara Lydy is creating the costumes. Becky Haines mentors student stage managers and manages the Theatre Box Office, and Linda Mead manages the Scene Shop. Pippin is intended for mature audiences. Reservations are available exclusively at < wc.booktix.com . Tickets, which are $17, go on sale at 9 a.m. on Nov. 3. Each Wilmington College student is entitled to a complimentary ticket with their student ID. Those seeking more information or needing assistance with ordering tickets can contact the Theatre Box Office weekdays, from 9 a.m. to noon at 937.481.2267. Article Submitted by Wilmington College

At the October 16, 2025, Wilmington City Council Meeting, Public Service Director Michael Crowe dispelled a rumor circulating on social media that the city is planning to demolish Xidas Park and turn it into a parking lot—located at the corner of Sugartree Street and South Street. Crowe stated that a woman approached him asking about the rumor that had been gaining traction on social media. To ease community concerns, Crowe stated, "There was a gentleman [that] posted that we intend or had conversations about tearing down Xidas Park and putting in a parking lot... Couldn't be anything further from the truth than that. That's never been a discussion... [It's] not true." Jason Stoops, owner of Midnight Auto Repair located at 70 W Sugartree Street, claimed to have heard the rumor and raise the initial concern on social media. Stoops stated, "Jim Xidas [who the park was named in memory of after his murder in 2011] was a customer [of mine] from way back, so that plan [to demolish the park] needed squashed before it even hit a committee." Stoops went on to express gratitude for Public Service Director Michael Crowe for "squashing that." To learn more about Wilmington City Council or watch previous meetings, visit wilmingtonohio.gov .

Wilmington DORA map At the October 16, 2025, Wilmington City Council Meeting, city council members voted to renew the Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA) for downtown Wilmington. During the judiciary portion of the meeting, Councilman Josh Schlabach brought up the renewal of Ordinance 25-60. The ordinance passed with the votes as follows: David Nanstad - Yes Michael Snarr - Yes Don Wells - Absent Bob Osborn - No Jamie Knowles - Yes Joshua Schlabach - Yes Kelly Tolliver - Yes According to the Ohio Department of Commerce, DORA is a "specified area of land that a local legislative authority (city council) has designated as exempt from certain open container provisions." Individuals who purchase a beverage with a DORA sticker are able to take their alcoholic beverage in the designated area. It is permitted seven days a week, year around, anytime between noon and midnight. Main Street Wilmington's website says individuals can purchase drinks from the following businesses: American Legion (140 East Locust Street) The Eagles (141 East Sugartree Street) The Escape (36 West Sugartree Street) Fiesta Veracruz (37 West Locust Street) The General Denver (81 West Main Street) Mediterranean Restaurant (53 East Main Street) Ole Town Tavern (26 N. South Street) TinCap Cidery (59 West Sugartree Street) Venice Wine Co. (64 West Main Street) The conversation to initiate a DORA began in the summer of 2020, lead by Jason Vaughan, Owner of TinCap. As reported by Wilmington News Journal, when promoting the initiative, Vaughan stated that it would "help stimulate business growth," as it allows customers to purchase a drink from local restaurants and take the drink with them to local shops and businesses. The initiative passed that September and was required to be reviewed five years later. The current legislation reads, "An Ordinance Renewing A Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA) In The City Of Wilmington, Ohio WHEREAS, on September 17th, 2020, Wilmington City Council adopted Ordinance O-20-40 establishing a Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA) pursuant to Ohio Revised Code (ORC) Section 4301.82; and WHEREAS, ORC Section 4301.82 requires review and reauthorization of a DORA after a five-year period; and WHEREAS, in accordance with ORC Section 4301.82, notice of the date and time of the public meeting regarding the renewal Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area was duly provided, and said meeting was held on October 2, 2025, at 7:00 PM, allowing for public comment and review of the application; WHEREAS, the renewal of the Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area will serve to enhance the experiences of patrons of City business establishments and the attendees of special events held within the City..." The remainder of the ordinance details the specifics of the ordinance, including a safety plan, sanitation plan, and the streets where DORA is in effect. The full ordinance can be found on the city's website. For more information about Wilmington City Council, visit wilmingtonohio.gov .

Left to Right: Councilman Michael Snarr, Councilman Bob Osborn, Councilman Jamie Knowles, Councilman David Nanstad, Councilman Kelly Tolliver, Mayor Pat Haley, Public Safety Director Nick Eveland (at the Podium) At the October 16, 2025, Wilmington City Council Meeting, Councilman Kelly Tolliver shared that he would like the city council, through the city law director, to seek a formal advisory opinion regarding Councilman Michael Snarr's and Police Chief Josh Gibson's presence on the board of Sugartree Ministries. Tolliver stated that he would like to know if it is compliant with state ethics laws and local policies. During his comments, he also mentioned that he submitted a letter of request to the Ohio Ethics Commission. Tolliver stated, "It’s come to my attention that both a member of this council and our chief of police serve on the board of a local nonprofit organization that operates within the city, specifically within that council member’s ward. And I want to be clear I’m not making any accusation or questioning anyone’s intent. The organization in question provides charitable services. However, this same nonprofit's operations also appear to intersect regularly with city resources and public safety services. Given that overlap, I believe its appropriate to examine whether this dual involvement by a policy maker and the head of our police department could present an appearance of impropriety or potential conflict of interest under Ohio ethics standards." He continued, "I'm separately submitting a formal letter of request for the advisory opinion to the Ohio Ethics Commission, I did that before this meeting." Tolliver argued that public servants should avoid situations that could "appear to compromise impartiality." He continued on to state, "I believe taking this step will protect the integrity of both this council and our police department, and reassure the public, every decision involving city resources is made objectively, transparently, and in the best interest of Wilmington residents." In response to Tolliver's concerns regarding Snarr's presence on Sugartree Ministries' Board, Councilman Snarr stated, "Kelly, I just want to say I appreciate it. If there's a conflict of interest I don't want to be voting on something and I have made a past request to the ethics commission to see if I could vote on a certain issue and... I've shared that with the law director's office." Later in the meeting, Public Safety Director Nick Eveland defended Chief Gibson. He stated, "Councilman Tolliver, I appreciate your comments and your thoughts... but I will say this... If an incident occurs at Sugartree [Ministries], [Chief Gibson] has always been there. If it's a violation of the law, he will arrest... He even put his brother in handcuffs at one point [for breaking the law]... He's a man of strong character and while he feels... that it's his calling to work for Christian ministries and the homeless, nothing would stop him from engaging in whatever's necessary to enforce the law." To watch the city council meeting or learn more, visit wilmingtonohio.gov .

Wilmington City Schools Board of Education. Left to Right: Tim Wiederhold, Bill Davis, Carrie Zeigler, Marty Beaugard, Eric Hildebrandt, DeWeese The Wilmington City School Board of Education held a Special Board Meeting at the Board Office on Friday, October 17, 2025 at 7:30am for the appointment of the recent vacancy of School Board Member Bill Liermann on September 23, 2025, and to appoint a Vice President of School Board for the remainder of the 2025 calendar year. According to Wilmington City School Treasurer Kim DeWeese, the Board of Education had 30 days to name Liermann's replacement to serve the remainder of his term until December 31, 2027. The following candidates applied: Erik Hermanson Eric Hildebrandt (running for election on November 4, 2025) Kirstin Harris (running for election on November 4, 2025) Jessica Manzo Krista Tolliver (out of town during the week of interviews) Heather Vilvens Michael Weller School Board President Bill Davis started the meeting by expressing his appreciation the the amount of qualified candidates who applied and their passion for serving the schools. Davis stated, "I will say as a group [of School Board Members]... it was atually encouraging [to see] the people people who put in [application], people who are invested in the area, care about it, and I think it just shows... to show that we had quality people put in [their application] really shows a lot, and I'm thankful for all of them that did because it makes it a had choice, but a good thing—it's good when you have good candidates to choose between. I'm excited for that; excited for the future. As I've told people, no matter what happens, get involved. Get involved in the schools." School Board Member Carrie Zeigler then nominated Eric Hildebrandt for the open school board vacancy and School Board Member Marty Beaugard seconded. Tim Wiederhold, who was also appointed to School Board in 2024 when Brian Shidaker vacated his seat for another position, commented that, "Even though I can legally vote on that [nomination], I will abstain with [Hildebrant and I] being in the election together." Erik Hildebrant was sworn in to serve the remainder of Bill Liermann's term on the Wilmington City School Board until December 31, 2027. According to Superintendent Tim Dettwiller, Hildebrant will withdraw his petition with the Board of Elections for the November 4, 2025 election, and the three remaining candidates will now run for three open seats on the Wilmington School Board—Sara Fear, Kirstin Harris, and Tim Wiederhold. Beaugard then nominated Zeigler to School Board Vice President for the remainder of the 2025 calendar year, seconded by Wiederhold. Erik Hildebrant & Kim DeWeese