HAMILTON — Hamilton-based vertical farming company 80 Acres Farms announced Monday that it is winding down operations after failing to secure the financing needed to continue the business. In a statement, the company said it had made "an exhaustive effort to find a way forward" but ultimately could not obtain the capital required to keep operating. "For a decade, our team has proven that vertical farming can work at scale—building and operating indoor farms that ultimately supplied more than 18,000 retail locations across the U.S.," the company said. "Unfortunately, under current circumstances, we could not secure the capital required to continue that work." 80 Acres Farms has been one of the nation's leading vertical farming companies, producing leafy greens, herbs, microgreens and salad products inside climate-controlled indoor facilities using hydroponic growing systems. The company said its technology uses 100 percent renewable electricity and up to 95 percent less water than traditional farming. The Hamilton-based company expanded rapidly over the past decade, with its products sold in more than 17,000 retail locations nationwide. Just weeks ago, the company highlighted the advantages of indoor farming during a nationwide Cyclospora outbreak, noting that its closed-loop growing system eliminates many of the contamination pathways associated with outdoor agriculture.

The company thanked its employees, retail partners and the communities that supported its growth. "We have seen vertical farming's potential up close, and we still believe that this industry is just getting started, and that we have helped plant the seeds for generations of future harvests," the statement said. The announcement did not specify how many employees will be affected or provide a timeline for winding down operations. The company's headquarters are located at One Renaissance Center in downtown Hamilton.

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WEST CHESTER TOWNSHIP — The Voices of America Country Music Festival will not return to VOA MetroPark after its 2026 event, according to West Chester Township officials. The township announced Wednesday that it informed festival organizer Further Concepts and Investors, LLC, doing business as Further Festivals, in early June that it would not renew the license agreement for use of township property beyond next year. Officials said the advance notice gives organizers time to secure a new location for future festivals.

The original agreement included automatic renewals for the 2025 and 2026 festivals, but any events in 2027 or 2028 required mutual agreement between the township and festival organizers. After reviewing the event's continued growth, township leaders determined the current site is no longer the right long-term fit.

Township officials said hosting an event of the festival's size requires significant commitments for public safety, traffic management, operational planning and restoring the property afterward. The release also states the festival "has not produced a measurable local economic benefit sufficient to offset these impacts."

Despite the decision, West Chester thanked festival organizers, first responders and community partners who have helped make the event possible over the years. Township officials said they remain committed to working with Further Festivals and regional partners to ensure the 2026 festival is held safely and in full compliance with the existing license agreement.

The township's announcement does not indicate where the festival may relocate after 2026, and organizers have not announced future plans.

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(Image Courtesy: Voices of America Festival)

FAIRFIELD — Law enforcement agencies across Butler County received a major boost in life saving equipment Wednesday as Project Heart ReStart donated 90 Automatic External Defibrillators (AEDs) valued at $175,500. The donation, part of Phase Six of the ongoing community initiative, was announced at a ceremony held at 10 a.m. at the Fairfield Community Arts Center, 411 Wessel Drive. Speakers included Steve King, chair of the Project Heart ReStart Committee, and Chief Pat Carr, president of the Butler County Chiefs of Police Association. The gift was made possible through a partnership that includes The Christ Hospital Health Network, Mercy Health, UC Health, TriHealth, Premier Health, the Medical Staff of Mercy Fairfield, Kettering Health, Cintas, Zoll Medical, and the Rotary Clubs of Cincinnati, Fairfield, Oxford, and Middletown. Project Heart ReStart launched in 2023 in the wake of Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin’s high-profile cardiac arrest during a game in Cincinnati. The effort focuses on equipping first-responder vehicles with AEDs so defibrillation can begin as quickly as possible when someone suffers sudden cardiac arrest. In its first phase, the committee worked with the Rotary Club of Cincinnati, Zoll, Cintas, Hamilton County Commissioners, Cincinnati hospital systems, and community donors to raise $260,000 and place 130 AEDs in every Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office cruiser.

Across six phases, Project Heart ReStart has now raised more than $1 million and distributed nearly 634 AEDs. The devices are in service in Hamilton, Butler, and Clermont counties in Ohio; Boone, Kenton, Campbell, Pendleton, Grant, Mason, Robertson, and Gallatin counties in Kentucky; and Ripley and Franklin counties in Indiana. Organizers note that having an AED available at the scene of a cardiac emergency can raise the chance of survival from roughly 10 percent to as high as 40 percent. Wednesday’s donation expands that coverage deeper into Butler County, putting additional life-saving tools directly into the hands of local officers who are often the first to arrive when every minute counts.

HAMILTON — Standing amid hay bales, American flags, and the towering Ferris wheel of the Butler County Fair midway, Republican gubernatorial candidate Vivek Ramaswamy told supporters Tuesday that the heart of Ohio — and the country — runs through places like this.

Campaign signs reading “VIVEK FOR OHIO — LOWER COSTS. BIGGER PAYCHECKS.” lined the stage as Ramaswamy, in a blue button-down shirt and baseball cap, pointed into the crowd with a microphone in hand.

“It’s like coming back home,” Ramaswamy said. “I actually grew up in Butler County. I was born and raised off Tylersville Road.” He noted his father worked at the GE plant off I-75 and spotted his first-grade teacher, Mrs. Hendel, in the audience, recalling a recent visit with his own children to Evendale Elementary. Ramaswamy framed the November election as the most consequential governor’s race in state history and drew a direct contrast with his Democratic opponent, former Ohio Health Director Amy Acton. He called the choice one between “the most conservative governor we have ever seen” and “the first socialist governor Ohio has ever had,” referring to Acton as “the Anthony Fauci of Ohio.” He criticized Acton’s role during the COVID-19 pandemic, saying public schools were closed for nearly two years while private schools, including St. Xavier High School where he later attended, closed for only five days. “Those kids in the public schools… will never get those two years of their education back,” Ramaswamy said. “Now the Democrats preach about inequality — well, they caused that inequality.” Ramaswamy pledged to bring high-paying jobs to Ohio, end sanctuary city policies (including in Cincinnati), support law enforcement, lower electric bills through expanded energy production, aggressively fight Medicaid fraud, and deliver lower costs, bigger paychecks, and better schools.

Property Taxes, Income Taxes, and Government Spending

Answering questions from the crowd, Ramaswamy called property taxes “insanely high” and “unacceptable.” He blamed post-COVID federal spending for inflating home values on paper, leaving many residents — especially those on fixed incomes — with far higher tax bills. His plan, he said, would reset the property tax base to pre-pandemic levels within the first six months of 2027 and then cap growth, describing it as “the biggest property tax cut in the history of the state of Ohio.” He insisted the reduction could be achieved without cutting funding for police, fire, or schools by targeting waste, fraud, and abuse. Ramaswamy also restated his goal of making Ohio a zero state income tax state. “You get to keep what you earn. It is your money, not the government’s,” he said, arguing it would attract investment while cutting red tape for small businesses. He noted Ohio’s 88 counties and roughly 2,000 taxing authorities as examples of excessive government. On the state budget surplus and gas tax, he said any extra revenue should return to taxpayers through property tax relief or lower consumer taxes. He highlighted an estimated $4.7 billion that could come back to Ohioans by cracking down on Medicaid fraud, pointing to a Tennessee model and recent discussions with federal officials.

Schools, Crime, Abortion, and Election Integrity

On education, Ramaswamy argued the biggest problem is not funding but the erosion of standards. He proposed requiring every Ohio high school graduate to pass the same civics test given to legal immigrants and ending social promotion so third-graders who cannot read do not advance. “Passing a kid along like a widget on an assembly line isn’t compassion, that is cruelty,” he said. He told a retired educator that he supports rethinking Ohio’s school funding formula to include a stronger statewide component, which he said could ease local property tax pressure while raising performance standards. On public safety, Ramaswamy blamed activist judges and prosecutors for releasing repeat violent offenders on low bond. He pledged greater transparency and accountability, noted the recent endorsement of the Fraternal Order of Police, and said the state should rebuild psychiatric hospitals so county jails are no longer the primary form of mental health care. Ramaswamy described himself as “as pro-life as they come” and called Acton “the single most pro-abortion governor the state of Ohio has ever seen,” criticizing the use of state dollars to fund Planned Parenthood. He said he would instead support crisis pregnancy centers.

He also urged support for Issue 3 on the November ballot, which would require government-issued photo ID to vote and place the requirement in the state constitution. “There aren’t that many 80-20 issues in politics — this is one of them,” he said. An 18-year-old asked about Flock cameras. Ramaswamy expressed concern about the growth of a surveillance state in the AI era, saying America should not compete with China by becoming more like it. He again tied the issue to Acton, claiming she had overstated COVID risks and supported expanded government power. Throughout the appearance, Ramaswamy mixed personal stories with policy proposals and closed by urging Butler County residents to vote and bring others with them. “If you all come out and vote… I promise you that my family and I, we will do our part to make sure that Butler County’s best days, Ohio’s best days, and through Ohio, America’s best days are actually still ahead of us.” The fairgrounds setting — carnival rides, campaign signs, and local supporters in red shirts — underscored Ramaswamy’s effort to root his statewide campaign in the southwest Ohio community where he was raised while drawing a clear contrast with Acton’s record as the state’s former top health official.
 

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Butler County commissioners are moving forward with an appeal of a Board of Zoning Appeals decision that favored Garver Family Farm Market, escalating a months-long dispute over whether the popular farm market and winery qualifies for Ohio's agricultural zoning exemption. Commissioners Don Dixon and T.C. Rogers voted Monday to authorize the Butler County Prosecutor's Office to challenge the March decision, while Commissioner Cindy Carpenter voted against the resolution.

The county argues Garver's new building is primarily used for commercial activities—including a deli, coffee shop, bar, retail sales and entertainment—and therefore should not qualify for an agricultural exemption under the county's rural zoning regulations.

The resolution also states county records show no zoning certificate, occupancy approval or permits were issued for a public assembly or entertainment venue and notes testimony from the local fire chief that the building lacked a certificate of occupancy and fire suppression system. Garver Family Farm Market strongly disputes those claims. Following Monday's vote, the farm posted on Facebook that two commissioners had voted to continue pursuing legal action despite previously expressing support for the business. The farm later accused county officials of "wrongful use of power and targeted harassment," calling the legal battle "a coordinated attack." The latest developments come four months after the Butler County Board of Zoning Appeals voted 4-1 to overturn the county's zoning violation. During that hearing, board members heard testimony from architects, agricultural experts, farmers and community members supporting Garver's position that the operation qualifies as an agricultural and viticultural business under Ohio law. In a Facebook post after that March ruling, the Garver family said county employees had reviewed its construction plans, attended its grand opening and knew of the farm's plans long before the zoning dispute began. The family maintains its farm market, winery, deli and other attractions are permitted components of a working agricultural operation. The appeal now moves into Butler County Common Pleas Court, where a judge will determine whether the Board of Zoning Appeals correctly interpreted Ohio law.
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(Image Courtesy: Garver Family Farm Market)

MASON — Carter Lumber has confirmed that one of its employees was killed in a shooting today at the company's door manufacturing facility on Reading Road in Mason. In a statement, the company says law enforcement responded immediately and remains on the scene. Carter Lumber says it is fully cooperating with the investigation and is providing assistance to authorities. The company says it is not releasing additional details while the investigation remains active and out of respect for those affected. Carter Lumber extended its condolences to the employee's family, loved ones and coworkers, saying its focus is on supporting employees and everyone impacted by the tragedy. Police have not yet released additional information about the shooting or identified the victim.

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(Image Courtesy: Google Maps)

FAIRFIELD — The Butler County OVI Task Force will conduct a sobriety checkpoint tonight in Fairfield. The checkpoint will operate from 7 until no later than 10 p.m. on northbound U.S. 127, or Pleasant Avenue, at Symmes Road. The checkpoint is part of the task force's ongoing effort to reduce alcohol- and drug-related crashes, injuries and fatalities. Motorists who suspect an impaired driver are encouraged to call 911 or pound-677. The Butler County OVI Task Force is funded through grants from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the Ohio Department of Public Safety. 

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FAIRFIELD TOWNSHIP — Fairfield Township police have identified the motorcyclist killed in an early Friday morning crash as 29-year-old Kenneth McConnell of Ross. Police say an officer found the motorcycle on its side in the median of State Route 4 near Headgates Road around 1:50 a.m. McConnell was located unconscious nearby and was taken to UC West Chester Hospital, where he later died. Investigators say the preliminary investigation indicates the motorcycle's tires entered the grass median before returning to the roadway. The motorcycle then went back into the median, where the rider lost control and was thrown from the bike. Police say McConnell was not wearing a helmet. The crash remains under investigation. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Fairfield Township Police Department Communications Center at 513-785-1300. 

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HAMILTON— The City of Hamilton and the Miami Conservancy District have received a major boost in their efforts to restore the Great Miami River, securing $2.45 million in H2Ohio Rivers Program funding. The grant launches Phase I of the Lower Great Miami River Restoration Initiative and paves the way for the full removal of the Hamilton Low Dam.

The project, a partnership between the City of Hamilton, Miami Conservancy District (MCD), MetroParks of Butler County, the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, and the Hamilton Community Foundation, aims to restore a free-flowing stretch of the river through Hamilton. Since the initial funding application, detailed engineering has refined the total project cost to $7.66 million. “This grant is the green light Hamilton has been working toward,” said Craig Bucheit, City Manager for the City of Hamilton. “The Great Miami River is one of Hamilton’s greatest natural resources. For years, we’ve talked about increasing recreational opportunities and driving riverfront development, but a major concern has always been the danger created by the existing dam. What’s particularly exciting about this project is the opportunity to replace that structure in a way that improves safety, increases recreation, and helps restore the river.”

A Key Step in River Restoration

Located south of downtown, the Hamilton Low Dam is the first barrier encountered by fish and paddlers traveling upstream from the Ohio River. Its removal will reconnect approximately 33.7 miles of river, allowing it to flow freely once again. The initiative is designed as the first phase of a broader restoration effort. Just upstream, MCD’s Two Mile Dam is scheduled for removal or modification through an Ohio Department of Transportation project starting in fiscal year 2027, creating a rare opportunity to restore a longer continuous stretch of river.

Restoring a Healthier River

Constructed in the late 1980s for recreational boating, the Hamilton Low Dam transformed a naturally flowing river section into a slow-moving, pond-like pool. This has resulted in warmer water, reduced oxygen levels, and altered habitat conditions.

The restoration project will:

• Remove the dam structure
• Rebuild a natural riverbed featuring gentle rapids and deeper pools
• Restore natural movement of sand and gravel downstream
• Improve water temperature and oxygen levels for fish and wildlife
• Maintain an upstream pool to support rowing activities throughout most of the year
• Significantly enhance safety for river users

Ohio EPA data indicates the river is notably healthier downstream of the dam than upstream, highlighting the structure’s environmental impact.

Improving Safety and Recreation

Low-head dams like Hamilton’s are notorious for dangerous recirculating currents. The Hamilton Low Dam has been linked to multiple drownings and rescues over the years, including a fatal incident in July 2025.

Removal of the dam will eliminate this hazard, allow seamless passage for paddlers and boaters, and improve safety for anglers, recreational users, and first responders.

The project also aligns with Hamilton’s riverfront development goals, including better public access, enhanced trail connections, and a stronger role for the city in the Great Miami Riverway.

Strong Partnerships and Funding Outlook

The City of Hamilton serves as the lead applicant, managing grants, contracts, and finances. The Miami Conservancy District, which owns the dam, will oversee engineering, permitting, construction, and long-term river management. Burgess & Niple is providing dam removal and river restoration expertise.

Project partners are actively seeking additional funding to cover the remaining gap and complete the full $7.66 million project in one phase. Potential sources include the Ohio EPA Water Resource Restoration Sponsor Program, the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service National Fish Passage Program, and local support. The City has also committed to helping secure any unfunded costs consistent with a 1987 agreement with MCD. Construction is targeted for 2027–2028 following final design, permitting, and full funding. “This is a defining moment for the Great Miami River in Hamilton,” said MaryLynn Lodor, General Manager of the Miami Conservancy District. “By removing the lowest barrier on the river, we’re not just improving one location — we’re unlocking the potential of the entire river system.” This project helps reconnect a region to its river,” Lodor added. “It restores ecological function, protects lives, and creates new opportunities for people to experience the river. It’s an investment in the future of Hamilton and Southwest Ohio.”

HAMILTON — As health officials continue investigating the multistate Cyclospora outbreak linked to fresh produce, a Hamilton-based indoor farming company says its products are not affected. 80 Acres Farms has posted a message reassuring customers that its leafy greens are grown indoors using a hydroponic system, eliminating exposure to soil and open irrigation water—two of the primary ways Cyclospora contamination can occur. The company says its produce is grown in a closed water system, with largely automated harvesting and packing to reduce human handling. It also says products typically reach store shelves within two days of harvest. A banner across the company's website reads, "Romaine Calm," adding that its products are not impacted by the current outbreak. While 80 Acres says no food production system is completely risk-free, the company says its indoor growing process is designed to eliminate the contamination pathways associated with the current Cyclospora outbreak.

Hamilton— After months of debate and a previous delay, Hamilton City Council voted 4-3 late Wednesday night to allow both medical and adult-use cannabis dispensaries to operate within the city. The ordinances limit dispensaries to certain designated business districts and impose strict regulations on their operation. Supporters argued the move will help capture tax revenue currently going to neighboring communities such as Seven Mile.

The vote passed despite strong opposition from three council members:

• Councilman Timothy Naab voted no, delivering an emotional plea referencing the death of his daughter Mallory, who was killed by a driver impaired by marijuana and six other drugs. “It’s been 8,628 days since my daughter Mallory was killed… She left home on a Saturday morning after Thanksgiving, kissed me goodbye, and never came home.”
• Mayor Pat Moeller also voted against the measure, citing concerns about public health. “I also believe that there’s a correlation between an increased number of emergency room visits and dispensary availability… In my mind, that correlation has a negative impact on public health, public health providers, and public safety.”
• Councilman Eric Pohlman expressed worries about the pervasive smell of cannabis in public spaces, including drive-throughs and even the golf course.

Former Hamilton Citizen of the Year David Stark spoke in favor of the measure, saying it does not represent an endorsement of widespread use but rather maintains “the rules of polite society, social order, and dignity” while allowing for responsible regulation. The proposal had been delayed last month due to a council member’s absence and fears of a 3-3 tie.

This decision marks a significant shift for the city. WMOH will continue to follow implementation of the new regulations and any community impacts.

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HAMILTON — The Butler County Coroner's Office has identified the person found dead following last week's commercial building fire on Dixie Highway. The victim has been identified as 48-year-old Hari Prasad Subedi of West Chester. He was pronounced dead at 3:01 a.m. on July 7 after being found inside the burned building in the 3900 block of Dixie Highway. The coroner's office says an autopsy has been performed, but both the cause and manner of death remain pending as the investigation continues. Hamilton police and fire investigators are continuing to investigate the cause of the fire. Authorities have said there is no known threat to the public and are asking anyone with information about the incident to contact investigators.

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(Image Courtesy: Nick Dadabo)

HAMILTON — The Southwest Ohio Air Quality Agency has extended an Air Quality Alert through Wednesday for Butler, Hamilton, Warren and Clermont counties in Ohio, along with Boone, Campbell and Kenton counties in Kentucky and Dearborn County, Indiana. The agency says ozone levels are expected to reach the "Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups" category on the Air Quality Index. People can help reduce ozone pollution by limiting driving, carpooling, walking, biking or using public transportation. Drivers are also encouraged to refuel after 8 p.m., avoid topping off gas tanks and not let vehicles idle. Residents are also asked to avoid using gasoline-powered lawn equipment, oil-based paints and stains, and to postpone campfires, fire pits and charcoal grilling until the alert expires. Conserving electricity by turning off lights and unplugging unused electronics can also help reduce pollution levels. Children, older adults and people with asthma or other respiratory conditions should consider limiting prolonged outdoor activity during the alert.

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FAIRFIELD TOWNSHIP — A Hamilton woman is facing charges after police say she crashed into a utility control box, knocking out traffic signals at one of the township's busiest intersections.

The crash happened Sunday morning at the intersection of Princeton and Gilmore roads, where the impact disabled the traffic signals and caused significant traffic disruptions. Police say the same vehicle had also struck a retaining wall on Winford Avenue before the intersection crash. Officers later found the vehicle facing the wrong direction in the Gilmore Road and Hamilton Mason Road roundabout. Following an investigation, 41-year-old Starr Cole of Hamilton was arrested and charged with operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs and stopping after an accident, commonly known as leaving the scene. The damaged traffic signals required repairs, and motorists were reminded to treat any intersection with inoperative signals as a four-way stop until normal operation is restored. The charges against Cole are allegations, and she is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.

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HAMILTON — thyssenkrupp BILSTEIN of America is expanding its Hamilton operation with plans to hire about 100 new employees while making additional investments in its Butler County manufacturing facility. The automotive technology company says the expansion is driven by the integration of its steering business and continued growth in demand. Hiring will take place across multiple departments, increasing the Hamilton workforce from approximately 600 employees. The company is also investing in the plant to improve efficiency and expand production capabilities. "This expansion represents an exciting milestone for thyssenkrupp BILSTEIN of America," said Managing Director Brian Williams. "It reflects our confidence in the future of our business, our customers, and our team. As we continue to grow, we're excited to welcome new talent who share our commitment to innovation, quality, and operational excellence." Hamilton Human Resources Manager Michelle Farmer says the company is recruiting for a variety of positions, offering competitive pay, benefits and opportunities for advancement. Greater Hamilton Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Dan Bates welcomed the announcement, calling the investment a boost for the local economy. Bates says the addition of roughly 100 jobs demonstrates confidence in Hamilton's workforce while reinforcing the company's long-standing commitment to the community and its support of local initiatives. The Hamilton facility has operated since 1995 and manufactures high-performance shock absorbers and suspension systems. The 420,000-square-foot campus also includes a technical center, proving grounds test track and distribution center.
 

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COLUMBUS — Ohio has been named CNBC's Top State for Business for the first time, earning the number one ranking in the network's annual nationwide study of economic competitiveness. CNBC credited Ohio's rise to its low cost of doing business, strong transportation infrastructure, affordable housing, abundant electric power, market access, and inventory of shovel-ready development sites. Governor Mike DeWine called the ranking evidence that years of economic development efforts are paying off. "This number one ranking proves that Ohio is the best place in America for business and all that comes along with it, including jobs, quality of life, and opportunities for everyone," DeWine said. Ohio's climb has been steady over the past several years. The state ranked 34th in CNBC's business rankings in 2010 before moving to 15th in 2022, 12th in 2023, seventh in 2024, fifth in 2025, and first this year. State leaders pointed to investments in site development, workforce training, career-technical education, environmental cleanup, infrastructure improvements and economic development as key factors in the state's success. JobsOhio President and CEO J.P. Nauseef credited collaboration among state, regional and local partners. "This Top State recognition belongs to Team Ohio," Nauseef said. "Ohio succeeds because government, economic development organizations, employers, workforce partners and local communities all work toward the same goal."

The Ohio Chamber of Commerce welcomed the ranking but cautioned that continued investment will be needed to maintain the state's competitive position.

"Rankings aren't permanent — they're earned every year," Ohio Chamber President and CEO Steve Stivers said. "If Ohio wants to remain the best state for business, we can't coast." The ranking comes as Butler County continues to see significant economic development activity, including recent announcements of Weidmann Electrical Technology's $155 million manufacturing investment in Middletown and Monroe's approval of the $140 million Project Clear distribution facility. CNBC evaluated all 50 states using 138 metrics across 10 categories, including infrastructure, workforce, business costs, technology, quality of life and the overall economy.

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MASON — A dispute surrounding the firing of a Mason police officer has grown into a broader labor conflict, with three public safety unions accusing city leadership of fostering what they describe as a hostile anti-union workplace. The Mason Police Association, Mason Professional Firefighters Local 4049 and Teamsters Local 100 released a joint statement condemning what they called "an ongoing pattern of anti-union conduct and disregard for the collective bargaining rights of public employees." The unions allege city leadership has created a hostile work environment by intimidating employees, denying due process, discouraging union activity and retaliating against workers who assert rights guaranteed under collective bargaining agreements. The statement follows the recent termination of Mason Police Officer Brandon Saylor. Saylor's attorney, Zachary Gottesman, has argued the city improperly fired the officer after an incident involving a department-issued ball cap worn during an outdoor traffic assignment. The city accused Saylor of dishonesty and insubordination after being questioned about the hat. Gottesman also alleges Saylor was denied contractual union representation during the disciplinary process and is seeking his reinstatement. The unions did not limit their criticism to Saylor's case, saying they have observed a broader pattern of retaliation and anti-union conduct affecting city employees. The joint statement calls on Mason City Council to investigate the allegations and hold city leadership accountable, saying current management practices are damaging employee morale, undermining public services and exposing taxpayers to unnecessary legal and financial consequences. When contacted by WMOH News, City of Mason Public Information Officer Amy Tinsley declined to discuss the allegations. In a statement, Tinsley said, "In keeping with City protocols and to respect the privacy of employees, the City does not comment on personnel matters." No lawsuit has been announced, although the Mason Police Association has indicated it intends to pursue available remedies under its collective bargaining agreement.

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(Image Courtesy: Google Maps)

HAMILTON — Hamilton Police are offering a $5,000 reward for information leading to the identification and conviction of the person or people responsible for the death of a 65-year-old Hamilton man last month. Police announced Wednesday that the reward is being offered in the homicide investigation of Vincent Singletary, whose body was discovered June 5 in the 400 block of South 12th Street in Hamilton's Jefferson neighborhood. The Butler County Coroner's Office determined Singletary died from a gunshot wound and has ruled his death a homicide. According to Hamilton Police, detectives have spent the past month conducting numerous interviews, reviewing digital and video evidence, coordinating with other law enforcement agencies and following up on leads. The department says it remains committed to bringing those responsible to justice and expressed condolences to Singletary's family. Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Robert Horton at 513-868-5811, extension 1236. Anonymous tips are also accepted. Police say the investigation remains active.

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MIDDLETOWN — A global leader in electrical transformer insulation is making a major investment in Middletown as part of a worldwide expansion aimed at strengthening the electric grid and meeting growing demand for power infrastructure. Weidmann Electrical Technology announced Wednesday it will invest $155 million to redevelop a vacant industrial site in Middletown into a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility. The project is part of more than $500 million in worldwide investments the company is making to expand production across North America, Europe and Asia. The Ohio project is expected to create more than 100 new jobs between the new Middletown facility and Weidmann's existing operation in Urbana. Company officials say demand for transformer insulation materials continues to grow as utilities modernize aging electrical infrastructure, expand renewable energy, improve grid reliability and build the infrastructure needed to support the rapid growth of data centers. The Middletown project will transform a vacant 350,000-square-foot brownfield industrial property into a next-generation manufacturing facility producing Transformerboard, a critical insulation material used inside high-voltage power transformers.

"We are confident in Ohio, its workforce and its future," said Wally Mahoney, Weidmann's Vice President of Operations for the Americas. "This investment strengthens our manufacturing capabilities, supports our customers and creates new opportunities for growth."

Middletown City Manager Ashley Combs called the project another milestone in the city's economic development. "This reinvestment in a historic manufacturing facility strengthens our growing business-focused ecosystem while solidifying our industrial legacy across the region," Combs said. State Senator George Lang said the investment reinforces Ohio's growing reputation as a destination for advanced manufacturing. "By reinvigorating vacant land and creating dozens of good-paying jobs, Weidmann is making a major investment in the future of Middletown," Lang said. The project was supported through a partnership involving JobsOhio, REDI Cincinnati, the Dayton Development Coalition, the Butler County Land Bank, Duke Energy, and the cities of Middletown and Urbana. Construction will redevelop the long-vacant industrial property, with production at the Middletown facility expected to begin in 2028.

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(Image Courtesy: REDI Cincinnati)

A person is dead following a fire Monday night at a vacant commercial building in Hamilton's Lindenwald neighborhood. Hamilton Police and Fire crews were dispatched around 8:45 p.m. to the structure at 3999 Dixie Highway, where they found the rear addition of the building heavily involved in flames. After firefighters extinguished the blaze, crews discovered one deceased person under the rubble. Authorities are working to confirm the victim's identity.

Officials say there is no known threat to the public related to the incident. Because of the building's location near the Hamilton-Fairfield boundary, firefighters from the Fairfield Fire Department and Fairfield Township Fire Department also responded through mutual aid agreements. Hamilton Fire Chief Tom Eickelberger praised the coordinated response.

"Incidents like this demonstrate the importance of strong mutual aid partnerships and clear communication between neighboring departments," Eickelberger said. "All personnel involved did an outstanding job confining the fire to the section of the building where it originated and prevented it from spreading into the main portion of the structure." The cause of the fire remains under investigation, and officials say all information is preliminary. Anyone with information about the fire is asked to contact Hamilton Fire Arson Investigator Trevor Snider at 513-785-7510 or Hamilton Police Detective Mark Nichols at 513-868-5811, extension 1232.

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(Photo Courtesy: Nick Dadabo)

Eighteen people were killed in traffic crashes across Ohio during the July Fourth holiday travel period, according to the Ohio State Highway Patrol. The reporting period began at midnight Thursday, July 2, and ended at 11:59 p.m. Sunday, July 5. Among the fatalities was a motorcyclist killed in neighboring Preble County. Troopers say 39-year-old Douglas Miller of Gettysburg was riding a 2003 Honda Silverwing north on State Route 726 in Washington Township Saturday afternoon when he lost control of the motorcycle. The bike traveled off the right side of the roadway, struck a ditch and then a utility pole. Miller was taken to Reid Health in Richmond, Indiana, with life-threatening injuries but later died Saturday evening. The crash remains under investigation.

Statewide, the Highway Patrol says safety belts were available in eight of the fatal crashes, but three of those victims were not wearing them. Five of the fatal crashes involved motorcycles, and three of those riders were not wearing helmets. During the four-day holiday enforcement period, troopers investigated 575 crashes, issued 1,722 distracted driving citations, cited 2,195 motorists for seat belt violations, and removed 387 impaired drivers from Ohio roadways. The Highway Patrol reminds motorists to report suspected impaired or reckless drivers by dialing #677.

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A four decade old homicide investigation has resulted in murder charges against a Columbus man. Warren County Prosecutor David Fornshell announced that a Warren County grand jury has indicted 62-year-old Randy McAllister on charges of aggravated murder and murder in connection with the 1985 death of John Warren. Investigators say Warren, a traveling salesman for an auto parts company, was staying at the former Holiday Inn near Interstate 75 in Middletown while attending sales meetings. He was found dead in his hotel room on the morning of October 17, 1985. Authorities say several of Warren's personal belongings, along with his 1985 Oldsmobile, were stolen after the killing. Within days, police in Dalton, Georgia, recovered some of Warren's property and other evidence behind a Cracker Barrel restaurant. His vehicle was later found in Redington Beach, Florida. Despite numerous leads, investigators at the time were unable to develop enough evidence to file charges. The case was reopened in 2019 by detectives with the Warren County Sheriff's Office. Evidence collected from the original crime scenes was resubmitted for modern forensic analysis. Investigators eventually identified McAllister and a now-deceased accomplice as potential suspects. Detectives continued working with the Warren County Prosecutor's Office for several years before presenting the case to a grand jury in late June. Prosecutor David Fornshell praised investigators for their persistence. "Cold case investigations are 'cold' for a reason. Many times there is some evidence that points to a suspect, but just not enough evidence to move forward," Fornshell said. "But particularly over the past five years, Warren County Sheriff's Office detectives have been tenacious in their investigation of this case... and the grand jury agreed." McAllister is now charged with aggravated murder and murder. The case will proceed through the Warren County court system.

The Middletown Division of Police is investigating a fatal shooting that happened early Thursday morning. Police say officers were dispatched around 2:10 a.m. to the 1300 block of Yankee Road on a report of a person who had been shot. When officers arrived, they found the victim suffering from gunshot wounds. The victim was transported to Atrium Medical Center, where he was later pronounced dead. Authorities have not yet released the victim’s identity. Middletown police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting. Anyone with information is urged to contact Detective Kristi Hughes at 513-425-7733 or by email at kristi.hughes@cityofmiddletown.org. Tips can also be reported through the police dispatch center at 513-425-7701.
 

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The Ohio State Highway Patrol is investigating a fatal single-vehicle crash that occurred early Thursday morning in Deerfield Township. Troopers from the Lebanon Post responded to the crash around 2:33 a.m. on northbound Interstate 71 near mile marker 23. Investigators say a 2026 Kia K4 driven by 25-year-old Isaias Zepeda of San Bernardino, California was traveling north when the vehicle went off the left side of the roadway and struck a concrete bridge overpass. After impact, the vehicle traveled over the concrete overpass and went airborne between the northbound and southbound bridge structures of I-71. While airborne, the vehicle struck a utility pole before landing on Western Row Road. Zepeda was ejected from the vehicle and died at the scene from injuries sustained in the crash. A passenger, 30-year-old Edward Garcia of Corona, California was transported to UC West Chester Hospital with serious, life-threatening injuries. Authorities also reported a secondary two-vehicle crash on I-71 caused by debris from the original crash. The crash remains under investigation. The patrol was assisted by the Warren County Sheriff’s Office, Mason Police Department, Mason Fire Department and EMS, the Warren County Coroner’s Office, and Jacob’s Towing.

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BUTLER COUNTY — Dangerous heat conditions continue in southwest Ohio this week, prompting local and state agencies to  extend  warnings into Friday, as heat index values climb as high as 108 degrees. The National Weather Service has issued an Extreme Heat Warning for Butler County and much of southwest Ohio through 8 p.m. Friday. While daytime highs are expected in the low to mid-90s, high humidity will make conditions feel significantly hotter. The Butler County Emergency Management Agency says the combination of extreme heat and muggy overnight temperatures in the 70s could increase the risk of heat-related illness, especially for vulnerable residents. Officials are urging residents to stay hydrated, avoid prolonged outdoor activity during peak afternoon hours, and spend time in air-conditioned spaces whenever possible.

“Hot temperatures and high humidity may cause heat illnesses,” BCEMA warned in its advisory.

Cooling Centers Available Across Butler County

To help residents stay safe, multiple cooling centers are available throughout Butler County, primarily at library locations.

Cooling centers include:

• Hamilton Lane Library, 300 North Third Street
• Lane Community Technology Center, 228 Court Street
• MidPointe Library branches in Liberty Township, Middletown, Monroe, Trenton, and West Chester
• Fairfield Lane Library
• Oxford Lane Library

Hamilton city officials are also reminding residents that seven city spraygrounds are open daily from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. for those looking to cool off outdoors.

Spraygrounds are open at:

• Benninghofen Park
• BTW Center
• Crawford Woods
• Jim Grimm Park
• L.J. Smith Park
• Marcum Park
• Millikin Woods

State Officials Issue Heat Warning

Mike DeWine and the Ohio Emergency Management Agency are also warning Ohioans to take the heat seriously.

Governor DeWine said extreme heat remains one of the deadliest weather hazards.

“No matter where you live in Ohio, you’ll be impacted by this week’s dangerously high temperatures,” DeWine said.

State officials say older adults, young children, people with chronic health conditions, outdoor workers, and anyone without access to air conditioning face the highest risk.

Recommended precautions include:

• Drink water regularly
• Avoid peak heat from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Wear loose, light-colored clothing
• Take frequent breaks in shade or air conditioning
• Check on elderly neighbors and relatives

Rumpke Adjusting Trash Collection Schedule

Rumpke says crews may begin collection routes earlier than usual this week to reduce heat exposure for workers.

Residents are asked to place trash and recycling at the curb the night before scheduled pickup to avoid missing collection.

Pet Safety Also a Major Concern

Animal Friends Humane Society is also warning pet owners to protect animals from dangerous heat.

Officials stress that pets should never be left in parked vehicles, even briefly.

Pet safety recommendations include:

• Keep pets indoors or in shaded areas
• Provide fresh, cool water
• Walk dogs early in the morning or later in the evening
• Avoid hot pavement that can burn paws

Animal experts say warning signs of heatstroke in pets include:

• Excessive panting
• Drooling
• Weakness
• Vomiting
• Bright red gums
• Collapse

Residents are encouraged to check on neighbors, relatives, pets, and anyone without reliable cooling as the dangerous heat continues through Thursday.

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