WILMINGTON, Ohio (July 9, 2025)— Wilmington City Schools has earned the Auditor of State Award for excellence in financial reporting for the 2023-24 school year. This award is presented to local governments and school districts upon completion of a “clean” audit report. Every year, an audit team spends weeks reviewing accounting practices, internal controls, and compliance against state and federal rules and regulations for financial reporting. They randomly choose from all financial transactions to ensure an objective examination of the financial statements. Only thirteen percent of the entities audited for 2023-24 qualified for the Award. “Receiving this award is testimony to the excellent work of all staff members across the District who handle public funds and to our ongoing goal to be good stewards of our taxpayers’ dollars”, said Wilmington Treasurer Kim DeWeese. This award certifies that: ● Wilmington City Schools filed a timely financial report in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP). ● The district’s audit report does not contain any findings for recovery, material citations, material weaknesses, significant deficiencies, Single Audit findings or questioned costs. ● Wilmington City Schools management letter contains no comments related to: ethics referrals; questioned costs less than $10,000; lack of timely report submissions, reconciliation, failure to obtain a timely Single Audit; finding for recovery less than $100; or public meetings or records issues. ● No other financial or other concerns exist that involve Wilmington City Schools. The financial audit report is designed to provide citizens, taxpayers, investors, and creditors with a general overview of the district’s finances and show the district’s accountability for the money it receives. Wilmington City Schools financial audit report can be found by searching for Wilmington City Schools at ohioauditor.gov (https://ohioauditor.gov/). For questions related to the district’s audit or other school finance issues, contact Mrs. DeWeese at 937-382-1641 or kim.deweese@wilmington.k12.oh.us . Article Submitted by Wilmington City Schools

Davids Drive WILMINGTON, Ohio (July 8, 2025)— The City of Wilmington, in collaboration with the Clinton County Port Authority (Port Authority), has been awarded an additional $175,000 in funding from the Ohio Department of Transportation’s Jobs & Commerce Economic Development Grant Program to support Phase III of the Davids Drive reconstruction project. This most recent grant award builds upon ongoing efforts to upgrade and modernize this critical industrial corridor that serves several major employers and manufacturers in both the City of Wilmington and Union Township. “Davids Drive is an important industrial corridor and connector for Wilmington,” said Wilmington Mayor Pat Haley. “This additional funding allows us to continue enhancing the infrastructure that supports our growing business community. I express my appreciation to the Port Authority for their ongoing partnership with my administration on the City’s initiatives.” As part of the successful grant application, the Port Authority coordinated with the City of Wilmington, and private employers along Davids Drive to document the number of jobs positively impacted by the roadway improvements. A recent and substantial private investment from Alkermes, despite the firm not being within the City’s boundaries, was a key component in demonstrating the project’s economic return and securing the award. The Jobs & Commerce Program exists to support infrastructure improvements that directly enhance job creation and private investment. “This grant is another example of how we are working diligently to reduce the burden on local taxpayers by leveraging external resources,” said Wilmington City Auditor Mary Kay Vance. “Every dollar we secure from the state helps us stretch our local dollars further.” The funding will support Phase III of the Davids Drive project, which will continue eastward improvements from Fife Avenue to Rombach Avenue. The enhancements will include full-depth pavement reconstruction, lane widening, drainage improvements, and upgraded traffic signage— continuing the transformation of the corridor into a more functional, safer, and business-ready roadway. “The Port Authority’s mission is to serve as a vehicle for economic development and investment into Clinton County,” said Clinton County Port Authority Executive Director Alex Beres. “Public and private investment can, sometimes with the right nudge, compound and become a virtuous cycle, where private investment lures public investment, which then incentivizes additional private investment.” To date, the Clinton County Port Authority has assisted in securing $1.575 million in total funding to support the multi-phase reconstruction of Davids Drive—an investment that strengthens the region’s logistics, manufacturing, and life sciences sectors. About the Clinton County Port Authority The Clinton County Port Authority is a special purpose government formed to operate transportation infrastructure and lead economic development efforts. Designated by Clinton County, the City of Wilmington, and the CIC of Wilmington as the lead Economic Development agency for the County, it coordinates with the Dayton Development Coalition and JobsOhio to attract jobs to, and retain jobs in, the area. It has been voted a Best Workplace for the last six years. The Port Authority owns and operates the Wilmington Air Park, an integrated aviation and logistics business park located on 1,900 acres with nearly three million square feet of industrial, office and hangar space. It is the highest volume cargo airport in Ohio and ranked 23rd in the United States and was named Best Airport in Ohio in 2020, 2021, and 2022. Learn more at www.ChooseClintonCountyOH.org and www.WilmingtonAirPark.com. Article Submitted by the Clinton County Port Authority

Judge David Henry The Clinton County Municipal Court is undergoing changes to the bond schedule, pretrial bond diversion, and community service program, as shared by Judge David Henry. According to Henry, the changes will require an additional staff member. He shared that Bob Wilson, a former Wilmington police officer, detective, sergeant, and chief of police for 26 years, will take on the position in July. In addition to this, the court changed their bond schedule that outlines bail amounts for criminal offenses. According to Henry, the previous bail amounts "posed significant dangers" depending on an individual's offense, and the new schedule will allow Henry to issue appropriate bonds. According to Henry, the previous policy allowed individuals to post bond before attending court due to the low bail amount. The new schedule will increase bonds from $100 to $1,000, ensuring an individual is assessed by Henry before being released to the public. The new schedule took effect on May 16, 2025. In his press release, Henry explained that the court will also increase the use of their bond diversion program, allowing "low-level, non-violent misdemeanor offenders" the opportunity to stay out of jail during their case. Rather than staying in jail prior to their hearing, eligible defendants would report to the diversion supervisor to ensure they are not committing crimes, using drugs, or fleeing the area. Henry stated that this saves taxpayer money. Additionally, Henry shared that the court is expanding their community service program. The community service includes cleaning public land, painting, lawn maintenance, and other projects. According to Henry, he has received positive feedback from township trustees, local leaders, and Clinton County Sheriff, Doug Eastes, that has led him to expand the program in Wilmington and other local townships and villages in the county. Similarly to the bond diversion program, inmate participants must be low-level, non-violent offenders. When speaking on the importance of these changes, Henry shared that the changes will save taxpayer dollars, in addition to protecting the people, which is his "biggest job." To learn more about the Clinton County Municipal Court and the program changes, visit clintonmunicourt.org .

WILMINGTON, Ohio (July 7, 2025)— The City of Wilmington has scheduled repairs to sanitary sewer and storm sewer infrastructure located on S. Walnut Street between Doan Street and Short Street. Work will take place Monday, July 7 through Friday, July 11, weather permitting. S. Walnut Street between Doan Street and Short Street will be closed while work is underway. Only local traffic will be permitted access. The intersection of Doan Street and S. Walnut St. may be closed periodically. Travelers needing to access properties west of the intersection should approach from Grant Street. The City of Wilmington asks that all motorists be patient, reduce speed, and exercise added caution when traveling near this work zone. Questions regarding the work may be made to the City Services Office at (937) 382-6509. RELEASED BY: Michael Crowe Director of Public Service City of Wilmington 69 N. South Street Wilmington, OH 45177 W: 937-382-6509

WILMINGTON, Ohio (July 2, 2025)— The City of Wilmington informs the public that crews will be repairing pavement in the 500 block of N. Nelson Avenue, near the intersection of Woodside Drive and Country Oaks Lane on Thursday, July 3rd. While crews are working, there will be lane closures and flaggers will be in place. Traffic will be maintained; however, motorists should anticipate and prepare for delays. The City of Wilmington asks that all motorists be patient, reduce speed, and exercise added caution when traveling near this work zone. Questions regarding the closure may be made to the City Services Office at (937) 382-6509. RELEASED BY: Michael Crowe Director of Public Service City of Wilmington 69 N. South Street Wilmington, OH 45177 W: 937-382-6509

WILMINGTON, Ohio (July 3, 2025)— The Theatre program at Wilmington High School had another award-winning year. On June 5th,the WHS Theatre program was recognized by the Miami Valley High School Theatre Awards (MVHSTA) Showcase at the Schuster Center in Dayton. WHS is one of forty high schools who are members of MVHSTA and has a rich history of outstanding fine and performing arts programming. The WHS production of William Shakespeare's A Midsummer Night's Dream was recognized as an Outstanding Production. The Wilmington High School Theatre program and students received 12 awards this year which include: Outstanding Production of a Play A Midsummer Night's Dream Outstanding Ensemble in a Play A Midsummer Night's Dream Outstanding Lead Actress in a Play (A Midsummer Night's Dream) Emily Andrews - Titania Skylar Carson - Helena Fiona Powell - Puck Carissa Preston - Hermia Outstanding Lead Actor in a Play (A Midsummer Night's Dream) Max McCoy - Bottom Colin Wood - Oberon Merit for Lead Actor in a Play (A Midsummer Night's Dream) Nate Fulton - Demetrius Mason Schaffer - Lysander Merit for Stage Management of a Musical (Mary Poppins) Sara Weller Merit for Student Choreography of a Musical (Mary Poppins) Veronica Calderone Article Submitted by Wilmington City Schools

Jeff Rollins, Executive Director of the Clinton County Veterans Service Commission On the June 23rd, 2025, the United States Department of Veterans Affairs held the grand opening and ribbon cutting ceremony for its new community based outpatient clinic at 31 Clark Street in Wilmington, Ohio. Jeff Rollins, Executive Director of Clinton County Veterans Service Commission, along with local community members, officials, and building staff celebrated the occasion by cutting a red, white, and blue ribbon. Previously, the Wilmington VA Clinic was located at 448 W Main Street. The new healthcare center provides medical services to local veterans, and works in conjunction with the Clinton County Veterans Service Commission located at 43 S Walnut Street, which connects local veterans to benefits. During the ribbon cutting ceremony, Michelle Gleich, Nurse Manager of the Wilmington VA Clinic, stated that the opening of the clinic is a "significant step forward" in providing veterans with accessible care. She shared their goal of providing "safe, compassionate, comprehensive, high quality care" to local veterans. After the ceremony and remarks, attendees were able to tour the new facility. According to David Graves, Public Affairs Officer with the Chillicothe VA Medical Center, the new facility will provide primary care, mental health care, preventative services, and other "specialty services" that include blood draws, clinical testing, pharmaceutical services, and smoking and tobacco cessation services, where veterans are provided support, resources, and programs to quit smoking. David stated that the new facility will ensure that "veterans receive the highest quality of care closer to home." In regards to the opening of the building, Ken Mortimer, Executive Medical Center Director at the Chillicothe VA Medical Center, stated, "We are dedicated to ensuring that Veterans in Wilmington and surrounding areas receive the care and support they deserve, particularly our rural Vets who often face unique challenges in accessing medical services.” To learn more about the new federally run Wilmington VA Clinic, or schedule an appointment, please visit va.gov .

WILMINGTON, Ohio (June 30, 2025)— The City of Wilmington announces that trash and recycling collection will operate on its regular schedule on Friday, July 4, 2025, despite the Independence Day holiday. Residents with Friday service should place their trash at the curb as usual. There will be no delay or changes in the pickup schedule due to the holiday. The Wilmington Landfill will be closed on the 4th of July and will re-open with normal business hours on July 7th. For questions regarding trash collection, please contact the Sanitation Department at 937-382-6474. RELEASED BY: Michael Crowe Director of Public Service City of Wilmington 69 N. South Street Wilmington, OH 45177 W: 937-382-6509

Cowan Lake New Restroom Facility Cowan Lake State Park, located at 1750 Osborn Road in Wilmington is currently undergoing exciting updates and renovations—such as new weekend programs, facility renovations, and volunteer opportunities. Several projects are ongoing and some will begin this year. According to Stephanie Oberlin, Park and Watercraft Manager, Cowan Lake’s naturalist team will offer weekend programs over the summer, such as guided hikes, owl prowls, water excursions, and kids’ nature crafts. The schedules for these events are posted around the park and on their Facebook page. Stephanie stated, “These programs are great for families looking to connect with nature and learn about local wildlife.” The state park is also currently “fully renovating” 12 of its 24 cabins. According to Stephanie, the renovations will provide “refreshed” accommodations that allow guests to enjoy nature while still having access to “modern amenities.” The date for the completion of the cabin renovations is currently unknown. However, once the renovations are completed, they plan to announce the openings on their website and social media. In addition to the cabin renovations, Cowan Lake will also be upgrading the restrooms located on the public beach. According to Stephanie, the old restrooms have been demolished and construction on the project is currently in progress. Stephanie stated, “This much-needed upgrade will provide visitors with modern, clean, and accessible amenities near one of our most popular summer spots.” Additionally, the state park is always seeking volunteers and hosting service opportunities, said Stephanie. She stated that volunteer opportunities are available for “all ages and abilities.” Volunteers can complete tasks such as picking up litter, assisting in removing invasive species to protect native plants, and volunteering at the nature center. Nature Center volunteers can help with garden work, tree planting, and environmental projects. Stephanie stated, “Volunteering at Cowan Lake is a rewarding way to give back, learn more about local ecosystems, and meet others who share your love for nature.” To learn more about Cowan Lake State Park and their summer events, visit ohiodnr.gov .

Sydney Murtland In April of 2025, the Ohio House of Representatives passed a state budget proposal that would no longer require counties to send a portion of their recorder fees to the Ohio Housing Trust Fund (OHTF). Instead, county commissioners would keep those funds to distribute themselves. Sydney Murtland, Assistant Director of the Clinton County Homeless Shelter, expressed concerns that this would greatly reduce local funds, as money from wealthier counties would no longer be distributed from the statewide fund to rural areas, like Clinton County. The budget proposal is currently being reviewed by the Ohio Senate. The Ohio House and Senate must then pass the revised budget, and Governor DeWine must sign it by June 30th, 2025. As it stands, fifty percent of the money counties collect stays within their county, and the other fifty goes to the OHTF to be redistributed throughout the state. Sydney stated that leaving the money distribution up to county commissioners is a “major concern” for the homeless shelter. Regarding the funds, Sydney stated, “It's vital for rural counties to have the support of the OHTF. [Rural] areas often lack the infrastructure and resources found in urban centers, making state support essential.” Sydney continued, “The trust fund provides critical assistance, from emergency shelter to home repair programs, that help keep people housed and communities stable. Without it, many rural Ohioans would be left without a safety net.” The program funds support diverse uses, including housing development, emergency home repair, handicapped accessibility modifications, housing counseling, rental assistance, new construction, and other services related to homelessness and housing. Local communities are able to apply for money from the fund. Sydney stated that the projects are "more times than not" awarded more funding than what the county requests. According to the Coalition on Homelessness and Housing in Ohio, state law requires that fifty percent of the OHTF collected must be awarded to rural communities. In 2024, the Clinton County Homeless Services received $234,000. According to Sydney, the Clinton County Homeless Shelter receives money from the fund every two years. To learn more about the status of the state budget, visit legislature.ohio.gov

Dustin Pearce & Elyse Fife Elyse Fife with The Purple Wagon joins the podcast to share about her home bakery and garden on Accommodation Road in Wilmington, Ohio. Elyse graduated from Wilmington High School, met her husband while working at Generations Pizza, and has worked in HR and real estate before starting her homestead where she currently home schools her two daughters. Listen to episode 72 of the Real Change Wilmington Podcast, 'Baking Dreams Come True at The Purple Wagon' with Elyse Fife, on your favorite podcast player below: 🍎 Apple: bit.ly/rcwp-apple 🟢 Spotify: bit.ly/rcwp-spotify 🎥 YouTube: bit.ly/rcwp-youtube 😎 Website: bit.ly/rcwp-website

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