09/08/25 Council News

Crooksville Council Gives Unofficial Approval for South State Street Storage Project

At the September 8, 2025, Crooksville Council Workshop Meeting, council members gave unofficial approval for a building permit at 302/304 S. State Street. The property will soon feature a 10x12 storage shed placed on a new concrete pad.

Fiscal Officer Lacey Tumblin stated she will include the matter on the next council meeting agenda for official approval. The project drew no opposition from the council members present.

Crooksville families can look forward to improvements at Patterson Pool ahead of the 2026 swim season. At the September 8 council workshop, Lacey Tumblin presented updated plans for the pool’s baby section, noting that reducing the amount of concrete will save money and increase grassy areas for parents and children.

The project aims to be completed before the start of next year’s pool season, improving both the appearance and usability of the facility for local families.

The Village of Crooksville has officially scheduled its 2025 Trick-or-Treat night for Sunday, November 2, from 5:30 to 7:00 p.m.

Mayor Christopher Mohler initially proposed October 30, but after discussion the council chose November 2. The event details will be posted to the Village’s official Facebook page.

Fire Department Equipment Shortages and Squad 212 Discussed at Council Workshop

Fire Department Chief Dyrall Newlon briefed the Crooksville council on several pressing issues during the September 8 workshop meeting. He reported that the department is short on hoses and currently has no spare, which affects compliance with NFTA standards. A grant application is underway to address the shortage.

Newlon also updated council on Squad 212, which remains out of service despite $1,500 in recent repairs. He asked whether the council wants to strip the vehicle or continue investing in it. He will also research the cost of a remount.

Additionally, Mayor Mohler asked Fiscal Officer Courtney Edwards to check with the Bureau of Workers’ Compensation about whether the village faces higher rates once the number of Fire/EMS members surpasses a certain threshold. The department currently has about 57 members.

Two individuals were introduced at the September 8 Crooksville Council Workshop as potential additions to the Fire Department.

Robert Jack, a former Junction City Fire Department member who recently moved to Crooksville, expressed interest in joining the department and eventually advancing to EMS.

Former Fire Chief James Baker may also rejoin the department. Newlon told council that Baker’s resignation only covered his role as chief, not his membership in the department. The council agreed to allow Baker’s return pending completion of necessary paperwork and formal approval at the next meeting.

Council Considers Alley Paving Fund and Stormwater Study

Councilman Redfern proposed setting aside $10,000 annually from income tax revenue to fund alley paving in Crooksville. Fiscal Officer Courtney Edwards stated the income tax fund is healthy enough to accommodate this and offered to create a new budget line item.

Redfern also suggested the village conduct a stormwater study, which would help identify infrastructure needs and potential improvements.

Executive Session Held on Personnel and Real Estate

Following the main agenda at the September 8 council workshop, the Village of Crooksville council entered executive session under Ohio Revised Code sections 121.22 (G)(1) Personnel and 121.22 (G)(2) Real Estate.

No decisions were made during the session, and the meeting adjourned shortly afterward.