Athens County • August 18, 2025
Good morning, Athens County. When conflict arises, having the right skills to navigate tough conversations can make all the difference. Athens Area Mediation Service is stepping up with free training sessions for OHIO community members starting September 26, teaching valuable facilitation techniques that extend far beyond campus boundaries. Meanwhile, the local real estate market continues its brisk pace, with properties from Athens to Coolville changing hands at values ranging from $16,205 to nearly $330,000.
Transitions are happening across the region as Murray City prepares to bid farewell to its old school building, scheduled for demolition by year's end. The Hocking County Commissioners have been busy redirecting funds from paving to water meters and reviewing plans for new residential developments. They're also supporting alternatives to incarceration through Court of Common Pleas grant funding—proof that even as some landmarks disappear, community growth continues.
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🕊️ Free mediation training offers conflict resolution skills to OHIO community. Athens Area Mediation Service is providing two cohorts of Fundamentals of Mediation training on Fridays between September 26 and October 24. Sessions will be held both in-person at Baker University Center and virtually via Teams from 9 a.m. to noon. The training teaches participants how to facilitate conversations between people experiencing conflict, with skills applicable in various settings. While free for Ohio University students, faculty and staff, non-university participants will be charged $200.
🏠 Athens County real estate market sees properties changing hands rapidly. Multiple transactions occurred between August 11-14, 2025, with property values ranging from $16,205 to $329,900. Notable sales included Jeffrey Burris purchasing multiple properties on Carol Lane and Robin Hill Lane in Athens for a combined $329,900. Rural properties also saw significant movement, with transactions in Glouster, Nelsonville, and Coolville. The diverse sales reflect continued activity across various Athens County neighborhoods and price points.
🏫 Murray City's old school will soon be demolished. Hocking County Commissioners received updates on multiple community projects, including plans to tear down the Murray City school by year's end. They approved a change order to redirect funds from paving to water meters in Murray City, and heard about an upcoming pickleball court project. Commissioners also reviewed plans for a new residential subdivision in Laurel Township and approved a $616,984.17 performance bond. Additionally, they learned that the Court of Common Pleas will use a grant to support local alternatives to prison.
Lavish golf course estate paradise: Priced at $549,900, this Athens luxury home offers 4,645 sq ft of refined living space with 4 bedrooms, 3.5 baths, and golf course views, featuring natural light, a gourmet kitchen, and an expansive primary suite.
Elegant Athens gem modern updates: Offered at $466,500, this architectural gem in a desirable Athens neighborhood features timeless elegance with hand-painted stucco exterior, restored slate roof, white oak flooring, and modern updates like marble countertops and Italian appliances.
College-area woodsy potential-packed ranch: This $185,000 ranch home near the university offers 2-3 bedrooms, original hardwood floors, and classic craftsmanship, with development potential in both the full basement and walk-up attic.Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.
-Proverbs 3:5-6
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