Home / Newsletters / Ohio / Ross County / March 28, 2025

🏛️ Council controversy stirs

Ross County • March 28, 2025

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Good morning, Ross County. Chillicothe's city council chambers have become ground zero for one of the community's most divisive debates in recent memory. The proposed anti-camping ordinance known as "Ordinance 555" has residents packing meetings, with impassioned voices on both sides weighing in on how to address homelessness while the police department questions the practicality of enforcement. With two council members recently resigning, the timing couldn't be more challenging for such a contentious issue.

Meanwhile, what began as a simple bicycle tail light violation transformed into a dramatic chase through city streets when Bobby Matthews fled from police. Officer Jon Campbell's persistence paid off when the suspect eventually fell during his escape attempt, leading to his arrest and the discovery of suspected fentanyl. Matthews now faces multiple charges including probation violation and failure to comply as he takes up residence at the Ross County Jail.

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☕️ What's Brewing Locally

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🏠 Chillicothe's anti-camping ordinance sparks fierce community debate.A packed city council meeting saw residents clash over the controversial "Ordinance 555" targeting homeless encampments, with most speakers opposing the measure despite some support. The proposal would require a 72-hour notice period and social service notifications before issuing minor misdemeanor fines, which supporters argue is more compassionate than existing vagrancy laws. Critics questioned the necessity of new regulations, pointing to recent camp clearances and a $35,000 cleanup operation as evidence of existing enforcement capabilities. Meanwhile, the council faces additional challenges with two recent member resignations and the police department expressing concerns about the ordinance's practicality.

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🚲 Bicycle tail light violation turns into dramatic chase and drug bust. Chillicothe police arrested Bobby Matthews after he fled from a routine traffic stop, first on his bike then on foot. Officer Jon Campbell pursued Matthews through city streets until the suspect fell while attempting to escape. After detaining him, police discovered suspected fentanyl in Matthews' possession and found he had two active warrants. Matthews was transported to Ross County Jail on charges including probation violation and failure to comply.

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🏠 Chillicothe's anti-camping ordinance sparks heated community debate. Local resident Nathaniel Elliott urged city council members to reconsider the proposed legislation during a recent meeting, emphasizing their responsibility to make thoughtful decisions. Elliott argued that council members—not the law director—would ultimately bear responsibility for any negative consequences, including potential legal challenges from the ACLU. He highlighted concerns already raised by the mayor and police chief, suggesting the ordinance needs substantial revision despite addressing some legitimate issues. Elliott recommended tabling the proposal to allow for proper research, expert consultation, and collaborative refinement before making a final decision.

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🏡 Real Estate Reveals

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Real estate listing image Move-in ready suburban gem: Priced at $185,500, this move-in ready Chillicothe home offers 4 bedrooms, 2 baths, a full basement, fenced backyard, and comes equipped with a new metal roof and generator.

🚗 Fresh Rides

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2020 Chevrolet Silverado 1500

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2018 Mercedes-Benz GLC

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2022 Jeep Gladiator

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2018 Jeep Renegade

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🚨 Cuff Notes

  • In a recent incident, a man was arrested for attempting to shoplift electronics from a local store. While fleeing the scene, he was apprehended by store security and later handed over to police.

  • A neighborhood experienced a string of car break-ins over the weekend, prompting local law enforcement to increase patrols in the area. Investigators are urging residents to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity.

  • In a rather unusual turn of events, a woman was caught attempting to sell stolen garden gnomes at a flea market. Authorities intervened and returned the whimsical decorations to their rightful owner.

  • A theft of bicycles occurred at a local park, leading to community members calling for better security measures. Local authorities remind cyclists to secure their bikes and stay alert while enjoying the outdoors.

🗓️ Happenings & Hoopla

🎸 Mar. 28 - Micah Kesselring Blues Night: Blues virtuoso Micah Kesselring brings soulful riffs and raw talent to Old Capitol Brewing on March 28. Grab a craft beer and settle in for an unforgettable evening of authentic blues at 79 N Paint St.
🎸 Mar. 28 - Chief with Rich Regal: Catch Chief with Rich Regal rocking the Locker Room Sports Bar and Grill on March 28! Grab your friends for an unforgettable night of live music starting at 7:00 PM in Chillicothe.
🌽 Mar. 29 - Chillicothe Winter Farmers Market: Fresh local produce awaits at the Chillicothe Farmers Market! Stop by the Ross County Service Center parking lot this Saturday from 10AM-12PM for the best winter and spring offerings from area farmers.
🌷 Mar. 29 - Spring Craft & Crop: Get crafty this spring at Adena Mansion & Gardens' Craft and Crop event! Join fellow creators on March 29 at this historic Chillicothe site for a day of seasonal inspiration and creativity.
🎨 Mar. 29 - Spring Paint & Sip: Unleash your creativity with brushes and brews at Old Capitol Brewing's Paint and Sip! Celebrate spring blooms while enjoying your favorite beverage on March 29 at 79 N Paint St, Chillicothe.
🔒 Mar. 29 - Digital Safety Workshop: Step into the digital future at Chillicothe Library on March 29! "Digital Safety in 2025" offers practical tips to safeguard your devices and personal information in our increasingly connected world.
🌸 Mar. 30 - Wildflower Walking Tour: Discover spring's colorful treasures on a Wildflower Walking Tour with Joe Bost at Buzzard's Roost on March 30. Hikes depart from main parking lot—bring the kids and leashed pets for this natural adventure!
🎭 Mar. 30 - Safe Prom Craft Market: Shop handcrafted treasures at the Safe After Prom Craft Market on March 30 at Chillicothe Middle School! Browse unique gifts while supporting a great cause that keeps local teens safe.

💰 Financial Friday

Explore the world of low-cost index funds as a way to invest for the long term; they offer a diversified portfolio at a fraction of the cost of actively managed funds, potentially leading to better returns over time.

🙏 In Remembrance

Terry L. Butterbaugh

Terry Butterbaugh, 64, of Chillicothe, passed away on March 25, 2025, at Chillicothe Post Acute following an extended illness. Born on February 19, 1961, to the late Herbert and Shirley Butterbaugh, he is survived by his three brothers, an aunt, and several nieces and nephews. Terry worked as a home health provider for Ross County Home Health. Funeral services will be held on March 31st, 2025, at the Ware Funeral Home with burial following at Charleston Church of the Brethren Cemetery.

Terry L. Butterbaugh

🍞 Daily Bread Crumb

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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