Meigs County • August 15, 2025
Good morning, Meigs County. Mother Nature certainly didn't wait long to test Belpre Elementary's resilience this school year. Just one day after Police Chief Michael Stump welcomed students with enthusiastic high-fives at the entrance, heavy rains left parts of the building flooded. While Superintendent Greenley remains optimistic about maintaining the regular schedule, officials are investigating longer-term solutions to prevent future water damage at the school where excitement quickly turned to concern.
Meanwhile, Athens' attempt to reduce plastic waste has hit a legal roadblock. The state appeals court struck down the city's ban on single-use plastic bags, ruling it conflicts with Ohio law permitting "auxiliary containers" for commerce. The case highlights growing tensions between state authority and local governance, with retired judge Tom Hodson noting this pattern of state preemption over municipal regulations is likely to generate increased litigation across Ohio in the coming months.
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π Belpre students greeted with high-fives on first day back. Police Chief Michael Stump welcomed elementary students with enthusiastic high-fives as the 2025-26 school year kicked off Wednesday. Principal Shane Freshour was also on hand, guiding students safely across the road to the school entrance. The scene captured the excitement and community support surrounding the return to classes at Belpre Elementary School. Local officials played key roles in ensuring a smooth transition back to school for the young students.
π§οΈ Heavy rains flood Belpre Elementary on second day of school. Superintendent Jeff Greenley assured parents that classes should continue despite Wednesday night's flooding issues. The district is investigating solutions to prevent future water damage at the school. Officials promised to notify families if the situation changes overnight, requiring schedule adjustments. The flooding occurred as part of a weather system that moved through the valley region.
π Ohio court blocks Athens' plastic bag ban. The city's attempt to prohibit single-use plastic bags was struck down by a state appeals court in July. The ruling found that Athens' ordinance violated Ohio law, which specifically allows the use of "auxiliary containers" for commerce. This case highlights growing tensions between state authority and home rule, with retired judge Tom Hodson noting that Ohio's legislature has increasingly passed laws overriding local regulations. With conflicting rulings from different appellate districts on similar home rule issues, Hodson predicts litigation in this area will "increase markedly."
Historic Victorian awaits cash buyer: This 1880-built home with 2 bedrooms and 1 bathroom is listed at $104,900, promising "great opportunity" for those ready with cash in hand. The Hubzu auction ends August 20, 2025, with seller covering taxes, HOA, and municipal liens.
Affordable countryside expansion opportunity: This charming two-story home in Tuppers Plains offers two bedrooms, two bathrooms, and expansion potential on a nearly one-acre lot for $135,900, just minutes from Belpre and Athens.
Rural hunting paradise awaits: This 77-acre Meigs County property, listed at $289,900, is ready for hunting with deer and turkey, featuring mixed hardwoods, evergreens, hunting blinds, a food plot, and an old farmhouse sold as-is.π° Financial Friday |
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The LORD is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul.
-Psalm 23:1-3
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