Home / Newsletters / Ohio / Fayette County / August 11, 2025

🗺️ Plan refresh

Fayette County • August 11, 2025

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Good morning, Fayette County. After gathering dust for over two decades, Highland County's development roadmap is finally getting a much-needed refresh. Economic coordinator Julie Bolender is rallying impressive support for a comprehensive plan that will shape the county's future, with an overwhelming 87% of business leaders already on board within just 48 hours. The initiative aims to tackle pressing priorities from education to infrastructure, replacing the outdated 2003 plan with a vision that matches today's challenges.

Meanwhile, Ohio's recreational cannabis market has blazed through its first year with $702.5 million in sales and over 100,000 pounds of product moving through 159 dispensaries statewide. And for something completely different, the Highland County Fair is preparing to crown its cutest contestants – both human and furry – as the annual "Cutie Pie" and "Cutie Pet" competitions return, with penny votes benefiting programs for children with disabilities.

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☕️ What's Brewing Locally

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🗺️ Highland County dusts off 22-year-old development roadmap for renewal. Economic development coordinator Julie Bolender is spearheading efforts to create a comprehensive plan that will guide the county's future growth and investment. The initiative has already garnered support from local governments in Hillsboro, Leesburg, and Lynchburg, with 87% of surveyed business leaders responding positively within 48 hours. Top priorities identified include education and workforce development, economic development, and infrastructure improvements. Commissioners unanimously supported the proposal, recognizing that the county's only previous plan from 2003 no longer addresses current challenges and opportunities.

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🌿 Ohio's legal weed market blazes to $702.5 million in first year. The state has sold 109,706 pounds of marijuana since recreational sales began in August 2024, following voter approval with 57% support. Average prices hover around $6.63 per gram, with 159 dispensaries now licensed to sell both medical and recreational products. Industry insiders note that while revenue hasn't reached the projected $2 billion, the market continues to attract both new users and those returning after decades. Meanwhile, lawmakers are working to regulate intoxicating hemp products and have proposed bills to limit THC levels and smoking in public places.

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🏆 Highland County Fair to host adorable competitions for kids and pets. SATH (Supplementary Assistance to the Handicapped) is sponsoring the annual "Cutie Pie" and "Cutie Pet" contests during the fair running August 31-September 5. Parents can enter children ages 1 day to 6 years with a $2 registration fee and a 4x6 photo, while pet owners can similarly register their furry friends. Visitors can vote for their favorites with penny donations, with proceeds benefiting SATH's programs for children with disabilities. Winners receiving the most votes by Friday evening will be awarded trophies and crowns during Saturday's ceremony.

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🏡 Real Estate Reveals

Real estate listing image Updated home with outdoor oasis: Priced at $349,000, this remodeled two-story home features 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, hardwood floors, a new kitchen with breakfast area, and a sun room opening to a covered deck with fenced yard.
Real estate listing image Nature estate with modern comforts: Listed at $649,900, this 4-bedroom sanctuary on 5 wooded acres offers a perfect blend of natural serenity and modern luxury, featuring a stocked pond, heated barn, and whole-house generator for off-grid living.
Real estate listing image Golf estate with speakeasy: Priced at $899,999, this custom brick estate beside Buckeye Hills Country Club's 15th hole offers 7,000 square feet of luxury living with amenities including a heated saltwater pool, private pickleball court, and even a hidden speakeasy.

🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

🏙️ Aug. 12 - Downtown Vitality Meeting: Help shape the future of Washington Court House at the Downtown Vitality Task Force meeting! Join community leaders on August 12 in the 2nd floor conference room at 105 N Main St to revitalize our downtown area.
🌽 Aug. 13 - Fayette County Farmers Market: Fresh local produce awaits at the Fayette County Farmers Market! Stop by 1650 Columbus Avenue every Wednesday from 3-6pm through October 1 for the best seasonal offerings from area farmers.
🛡️ Aug. 13 - Service & Safety Committee: Join the Service, Safety & Recreation Committee meeting on August 13 at 105 N Main St in Washington Court House. Your voice matters as community leaders discuss local initiatives that impact our neighborhood.
🏛️ Aug. 13 - City Council Meeting: Have your voice heard at the City Council Meeting on August 13! Join community discussions and local governance in action at 105 N Main St, Washington Court House, OH.
💭 Aug. 14 - The Wake: Hope Talks: "The Wake" tackles tough conversations about teen mental health with free food at 6:30pm and program at 7pm, August 14. Join this important community discussion at The Jaimes Event Center in Washington Court House.
🧘 Aug. 14 - Yoga on the Patio: Stretch and breathe in the fresh air at Yoga on the Patio! Join this free outdoor yoga class at Salty Broads Patio (216 E Court St) on August 14 for a rejuvenating community experience.
🎨 Aug. 14 - Paper Portrait Art: Transform paper into personality at "Average Art with Averie: Paper Portraits" on Aug 14! Create expressive self-portraits or partner up at 127 S North St, Washington Court House—perfect for teens of all artistic abilities.
🧸 Aug. 15 - Preschool Play & Socialize: Little ones can romp and make new friends at Preschool Playtime! The carpet is rolled out and toy shelves are open for your preschooler on August 15 at 127 S North St, Washington Court House.
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