Crooksville News

Village Approves September Financials, Amends 2025 Appropriations

October 20, 2025

NEW LEXINGTON — The Village of New Lexington Council met on October 20, 2025, at the Municipal Building with Mayor Thompson presiding. During the meeting, council unanimously approved the September 2025 financial statements presented by Finance Director Lewis.

Council also passed Ordinance No. 25-16, amending the annual appropriations and declaring an emergency, as well as Resolution No. 25-19, which certifies the necessary tax levies to the Perry County Auditor.

Finance Director Lewis noted that the Village recently hired a part-time janitor who will work eight hours per week to help maintain municipal facilities.

Administrator Reports Street Work and Equipment Sales

October 20, 2025

NEW LEXINGTON — Village Administrator Emmert updated council members Monday on several ongoing projects and recent sales from the Public Service Department.

According to Emmert, striping work on State Street and Tile Plant Road will begin next week. He also received council’s approval to apply for a second-round dumpster grant through the Perry County Health Department.

The Village recently sold three trucks, two mowers, and a police Crown Victoria on GovDeals, earning a total of $8,056.25.

Emmert also shared that the ELKS organization has purchased two new monuments for Veterans Memorial Park, which will be unveiled during the Veterans Day Services.

Police and Fire Departments Report Successful Trunk or Treat Events October 20, 2025

NEW LEXINGTON — Both the Police and Fire Departments reported a strong community turnout for this year’s Trunk or Treat event, held earlier this month.

Police Chief Gill said the department handed out around 760 tickets and hosted about 60 decorated trunks. He also announced the swearing-in of a new auxiliary officer on October 17 and shared that the department will begin orientation for new body-worn camera systems this week.

Fire Chief Fain added that the event was well attended by families from across the community. He also shared that the department presented a $2,500 donation to the Perry County Cancer Alliance — funds raised through annual t-shirt sales.

Village Addresses Code Enforcement and Housing Concerns October 20, 2025

NEW LEXINGTON — Code Enforcement Officer Wilkins reported to council that several ongoing property complaints and court cases are being addressed.

Wilkins shared that he has been working with legal aid and adult services to help relocate a resident living in unsafe rental conditions. Councilperson Spencer noted receiving similar property complaints, to which Wilkins responded that an open case already exists for that address.

Wilkins’ report follows continued efforts by the Village to uphold property maintenance standards and assist residents facing difficult living situations.

Council Discusses Water Safety, Parks, and Future Planning

October 20, 2025

NEW LEXINGTON — Council discussions at Monday’s meeting included topics ranging from water testing to parks management and zoning updates.

Councilperson DePinto asked whether the Village’s water is tested regularly, to which Administrator Emmert confirmed “yes.” Emmert explained that the Village only receives reports from the EPA when a violation occurs but that anyone may contact the EPA office in Logan, Ohio for information.

DePinto also inquired about the local landfill, which lies outside the corporation limits. Emmert noted that while the landfill does not pay direct fees to the Village, it occasionally provides monetary donations for community purposes.

Councilperson Spencer announced that the Parks and Recreation Committee will need to replace one member and confirmed plans to install the nativity scene at MacGahan Park this season. Meanwhile, Councilperson Bethel plans to hold a Planning and Economic Development meeting to review zoning updates.