August 25 News

At the Crooksville Council workshop meeting held August 25, 2025, business owner Terry Hinkle of Larry’s Tire Shop raised concerns about paving near his property on Baker Street alley. Hinkle noted that the section in question, measuring 133 feet by 15 feet, belongs to the Village but has been maintained by him for the past 25 years without Village assistance.

Council member Mr. Redfern suggested that the Village begin setting aside $10,000 annually to fund alley paving. Mr. Hampton stated the idea could be discussed at future workshop meetings. The council agreed to include the paving project in upcoming votes, with a decision scheduled for Tuesday since Monday’s meeting falls on Labor Day.

The Village of Crooksville may soon see new additions to its EMS department. At the August 25 workshop, Chelsea Simpson, an EMT with 3 ½ years of experience, introduced herself and expressed interest in joining the team.

She was followed by Casey Cullison, a paramedic with two years of paramedic experience and five years in EMS overall. Cullison is also enrolled in Fire School and currently resides in Zanesville.

Both applicants shared their availability and enthusiasm to serve the community. Their applications will be included on the agenda for a formal council vote at next week’s meeting.

During the August 25 workshop meeting, Mrs. Tumblin provided council members with updates from the Environmental Protection Agency. The report contained a few key recommendations, including:

• Reducing water loss.

• Conducting an inspection of the east tank.

• Increasing the frequency of roof and hatch checks on water tanks.

• Improving valve exercises.

Council members acknowledged the recommendations, which will guide upcoming improvements in the Village’s water management efforts.

Mrs. Tumblin presented a proposed change order regarding the B1 station’s electrical system at the August 25 council workshop. She requested unofficial approval for an upgrade from 200 amps to 400 amps, with new lines run underground to replace the current overhead setup, which she described as inadequate.

The project would be funded using money set aside by Heidi Milner specifically for change orders. Council members agreed with the proposal, and an official vote will take place at next week’s meeting.

Crooksville’s youngest residents may soon enjoy a new recreational space. Mrs. Tumblin reported to council that discussions about the baby pool project went well, with a target completion date set for summer 2026. The project remains in the planning stages, but progress is ongoing.

Recreation facilities were also on the agenda during the August 25 council workshop. Mrs. Tumblin shared that a quote received from Willett for a block wall at the park entrance came in higher than expected. She said she would continue to seek additional quotes before making a decision.

Additionally, Tumblin and Mrs. Edwards inspected the South Park batting cages and found them beyond repair. They suggested the possibility of removing them and installing a pickleball court instead.

Council member Mr. Redfern mentioned the Critical Infrastructure Grant through HAPCAP as a potential funding source to add utilities to South Park, which could support future improvements.