SDN Progress 22412

Third of Four Sections • Friday, February 24, 2012

Emergency Services • Government • Courts

COURTS • EMERGENCY SERVICES • GOVERNMENT

Editorial index City of Sidney Community Service Department ...............14 Finance Department ...................................14 Fire and Emergency Services .....................24 Mayor .............................................................4 Municipal Court ..........................................26 Parks and Recreation Department ............16 Police ............................................................23 Public Works Department ....................15, 17 Shelby County Regional Planning Commission .................................................12 Shelby County Auditor .........................................................10 Clerk of Court..............................................11 Commissioners ..............................................3 Common Pleas Court ..................................25 Jobs & Family Services ...............................20 Juvenile Court .............................................25 Probate Court ..............................................26 Prosecutor....................................................27 Recorder.......................................................12 Sheriff ....................................................18, 22 Treasurer .....................................................13 Townships Perry ..............................................................9 Salem .............................................................9 Villages Anna...............................................................5 Botkins...........................................................6 Jackson Center ..............................................7 Kettlersville...................................................8 West Ohio Development Council....................13 Industry articles Freshway Foods ..............................................28

Sidney Daily News, Friday, February 24, 2012

Helman Bros. Body Shop................................28 Kard Group .....................................................29 Kirk NationaLease .........................................30 LaserFab .........................................................34 New Knoxville Supply Co...............................33 NK Parts .........................................................32 Shaffer Metal Fab ...........................................35 Sidney Body CARSTAR..................................34 Sidney Door and Window Inc.........................37 Sidney Electric Co. .........................................36 Sidney Manufacturing Co. .............................35 Sidney Tool & Die Inc. ....................................38 Sollmann Electric Co. .....................................31 Wayne Trail Technologies...............................39

Advertising index A & B Machine ................................................38 AAA World Wide Travel ..................................36 Agrana Fruit US, Inc ........................................6 Alternative Maintenance..................................2 Apple Farm Services .........................................7 Area Wireless ....................................................3 Barker Insurance Agency ...............................37 Buckeye Ford ...................................................24 Clancy’s..............................................................2 Dorothy Love Retirement Community ............6 Edison State Community College ..................22 Fair Haven Shelby County Home ..................20 Father Hubbard’s Cupboard .............................5 Ferguson Construction....................................24 Francis Furniture............................................31 Fultz Warehouse Carpets .................................7 Gagel’s Plumbing & Heating ..........................29 Gateway Arts Council .......................................2 Greve Drywall & Painting ..............................18

Page 2

Greve Electrical & Plumbing .........................22 Hampton Inn Sidney.......................................10 Hearts On Call ................................................37 Helman Brothers Body Shop............................4 Honda of America, Mfg ...................................19 HR Associates Personnel Service .....................2 Jeffrey J. Beigel, Attorney...............................36 Lochard’s Inc. ....................................................8 Marco’s Pizza of Sidney ....................................8 Marketing Trends/Custom Screen .................10 New Bremen Machine.....................................21 New Knoxville Supply Co. ................................4 Ohio Vision ......................................................33 Osgood State Bank..........................................23 People’s Federal Savings & Loan ...................11 Primecare Physicians of West Central Ohio ................................................34 Ruese Insurance Agency.................................17 S & H Products................................................37 Shelby County Library ...................................32 Sidney Body Carstar .......................................35 Sidney Chiropractic Center ............................30 Sidney Daily News ..........................................39 Sidney Electric Co. ..........................................27 Sidney Inn .........................................................5 SMS Pro Tech .................................................33 Staffmark.........................................................20 The Pavilion Care Center ...............................32 The Spot of Sidney ............................................8 Upper Valley Career Center ...........................11 Valentine Vision (Dr. Phillip Valentine) .........11 Valley Eye Institute ..........................................9 Westaff .............................................................23 Wilson Memorial Hospital ..............................40 Wissman Door Sales .......................................12 Wright State University, Celina.....................30

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COURTS • EMERGENCY SERVICES • GOVERNMENT

Sidney Daily News, Friday, February 24, 2012

Page 3

Commissioners deal with less money in county funds State balances budget at expense of local government “Reduced revenues continue to make the delivery of local governm ent a l services a c h a l lenge,” Commissioner L a r r y K l e i n - Kleinhans hans says as he delivers the following report by Shelby County Commissioners: During the great recession of 2008 to 2010 county revenues dropped by $2 million.

This was in sales tax, investment credit and jail

fees. County government adjusted and we hoped the worst was over.

However, going into 2011 we knew the next state budget would be proposed and approved

by June. By attending seminars and receiving updates from our state association (CCAO) on the progress of the state budgeting process we began to hear that much of the county’s share of Local Government Funds (LGF) and Tangible Property Tax (TPP) were going to be kept by the state.

That soon became fact. The governor pro-

posed, and our two representatives approved along with their colleagues, to keep such funds to balance their growing budget which went from $50 billion to $55 billion.

What does this mean to Shelby County?

First of all, the legislature balanced the state budget at the expense of local government, but not by cutting expenses.

Second, Shelby County will lose $900,000 in LGF and TPP funding over the next two years. The combined loss of $2 million from the great recession, plus the $900,000 loss in

state funding makes it difficult to balance the county budget.

To compensate, we have reduced expenses over the past four years and have used permanent improvement funds for operating. The downside of this is our aging equipment and facility infrastructure have not received needed upgrades. The jail, courthouse, and annex all need upgrading (HVAC, roofs, exterior walls) along with an outdated dispatch and communication system all more than 20 years old.

Two things we are working on and need

your help with are to get our three legislators to introduce bills that would require the state to fully fund the public defender’s office and the board of elections. The state public defender’s office and secretary of state have full control of these departments, so we are of the opinion the state needs to fund them.

These changes would save the county $600,000 annually. Our other initiative is to have our legislators approve the funding stream fir the emergemncy wireless 911 program which is due to

expire at the end of 23012. If that expires and becomes the county’s responsibility, it would cost the county and city another $120,000 annually.

If you see our state representatives Sen. Keith Faber, and Reps.

John Adams and Jim Buchy, encourage them to extend the funding stream for the vital 911 system.

We know the funding of county government can be complex and may be misunderstood. If you would like to discuss the general fund funding process, call 498-7226 to arrange a time to meet.

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COURTS • EMERGENCY SERVICES • GOVERNMENT

Sidney Daily News, Friday, February 24, 2012

Page 4

Sidney strives to provide quality services with limited resources next five years, the city of Sidney will receive about $750,000 less per year from the state of Ohio. This reduced level of support, on top of the deep recession and coupled with the many unfunded mandates from the State and Federal governments have negatively affected the city’s financial ability to provide critical services.

Despite these challenges, the city of Sidney has taken the necessary steps to remain financially viable. Significant budget reductions have been made, including reductions in staffing. We currently have 54 fewer employees (both fulltime and part-time positions). Through the efforts of our remaining staff, every attempt has been made to continue to provide a high level of service. Unfortunately, there has been some curtailment of services and the reduction of services will undoubtedly become more noticeable with the passage of time..

The recession has taken its toll on the city’s ability to maintain its infrastructure. The most obvious example is the condition of city streets.

The cost of asphalt has doubled in the last eight years. Reduced tax revenues and reduced State assistance have combined to limit the funding available for street maintenance and resur-

facing. Nearly half of the 103 miles of streets are now in substandard condition. To adequately maintain the streets, 6 to 7 miles of streets should be resurfaced annually, but current funding makes it possible to resurface only about 2.5 miles of streets per year.

As a result, the streets will see further degradation.

Our fiscal prudence helped the city of Sidney maintain its AA bond rating from Standard & Poor’s. Considering the loss of revenue and economic woes, this is a sign i f i c a n t accomplishment. Standard & Poor’s cited the city’s strong financial

management practices as a primary reason for the continued positive rating. They said “although the city’s financial operations have been pressured recently, we believe officials have made, and continue to make, sufficient adjustments to maintain general fund reserves that we consider to be very strong.” This is validation by an outside rating agency is a good indication that city is a good steward of public money.

There are two significant threats on the horizon: 1. The city may be forced to make improvements of at least $25 million to its wastewater

treatment plant in order to comply with new EPA mandates. This would cause an increase of at least 50 percent in the city’s sewer rates. The shame of it is that we do not believe that the expenditure of these vast amounts — and resulting hardships upon individuals and businesses will contribute at all to the quality of the water in the Great Miami River. We will continue to work through our Congressional representatives to seek a common sense solution to this situation.

2. The General Assembly is preparing legislation to “reform” municipal income tax as-

sessment and collection.

One of their goals is to make municipal tax laws uniform for all cities and villages in Ohio. Some of the changes that have been discussed would deal a devastating blow to the city of Sidney’s tax base.

A second reported goal is to centralize the collection of municipal income taxes at the State level.

The city of Sidney collects taxes in a very cost efficient manner and all indications point to the fact that the State could not collect them as cost effectively. We also believe that there would be the natural tendency for the State to assess even See SIDNEY/Page 5

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The city of Sidney’s biggest challenge in 2011 continued to be finding ways to provide quali t y services to the citizens of Sidney at Barhorst a time of limited resources.

“The city’s largest sources of revenue — income tax collections and charges for water and sewer services — continued to be depressed by a local economy that is still feeling the effects of the global recession,” said Mayor Michael Barhorst. “Income tax revenues, which provide the bulk of the funding for basic services (police, fire, and EMS services, parks and recreation, street maintenance, etc.) were about $650,000 less in 2011 than in 2007.

This marks a slight rebound after income tax collections dropped by nearly 20 percent in 2009 and in 2010.”

His report continues: The city’s economic situation only worsened as a result of action taken by our elected representatives in Columbus.

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COURTS • EMERGENCY SERVICES • GOVERNMENT

Sidney Daily News, Friday, February 24, 2012

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Anna faces challenges of 2011

greater collection fees in order to balance its own budget, effectively draining more money from local economies in favor of the State budget. Finally, the collection of municipal income taxes by the state would create additional investment income for the State at the expense of municipal governments. We will continue to work with our State elected representatives to ensure that local interests are heard and that the city does not suffer further revenue reductions.

In addition to employees who left the city as a result of our need to downsize, City Manager Steve Stilwell left to take the position of village manager in Granville and Law Director Michael Smith re-

neering firm, who built our present plant in the 1990’s, will be in charge of this project.

Kyle Wildermuth, Public Works director, along with Bruce Schroer, Tyler Shuster and Brad Duncum, have been doing a good job with their daily responsibilities as well as overseeing major projects.

Some of these in 2011 were the resurfacing of South Pike Street and Risha Avenue.

The Public Works Department continues to provide year long, 24 hour, 7 days a week services to the residents of Anna. They respond to every infrastructural emergency both during and From Page 4 after hours. In 2011, we treated 57 million galtired. Jeff Amick, forlons of water and took merly law director in the in and treated 124 milcity of Greenville assumed the position of Mike & Kim Sidney’s law director in Eilerman January. Mark Cundiff, currently village manager in Yellow Springs, assumed his duties here on Feb. 22.

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lion gallons of wastewater.

Mary McIntyre and Gloria and Gary Egbert were the recipients of our annual Village Pride Award plaques in recognition of their beautification efforts to their properties.

Speaking of pride; we work closely with the Anna Local School in our efforts to improve our community and cooperate with each other in a constructive, cost-saving and respectful way. Sharing of equipment, as well as employees, at times has and will continue to be very beneficial to both entities.

In the Community Park in 2011, we were able to upgrade the electric service to our large shelter house, maintain our two youth baseball fields, and complete many other projects.

In 2012 we hope to continue to provide good park services for our citizens. We have been very fortunate to receive grants for the rebuilding of our 35-year-old park restrooms from the Bensman Foundation and the Anna Civic Association. Another grant came from the Honda Corp. for repair of some bad places in our park walking path as well as adding some park equipment. Recently we have had new park benches donated to the village by various companies and individuals. All of these donations are deeply appreciated and will result in park improvements to benefit all those that use our park for years to come.

We are hoping to do two street projects in 2012 — repaving of

North Pike Street from Main Street to the north corporation limit and the reconstruction of West North Street from Third Street to Pike. Grants are pending.

Our Police Chief Scott Evans and his fellow officers have been doing an excellent job in their services to our village.

Their efforts have been appreciated.

Fire Chief Tim Bender has been at his very best in directing our volunteer fire department by providing up-to-date training and equipment.

Council has approved the purchase of a new fire engine for this year.

I sincerely hope you all have a great 2012.

Let’s all be good to each other and find new ways to take care of and improve our wonderful community.

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SIDNEY

Linda Pleiman was selected by our village council as our new fiscal officer. Linda is doing a nice job in her first year of employment.

Jenny Maurer, our utility and court clerk, began emailing newsletters and encouraging others to use our village website for forms, Village policies and other useful information. Jenny will soon be implementing the new utility rates selected by Council.

The year 2012 will see renovation, equipment replacement and repair at our 16-year-old wastewater treatment plant.

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ANNA — The year 2011 was one of budgetary struggles, but good fellowship, happiness and thankfulness to live in the village of Anna.

Anderson “ A change taking place in 2011 was the loss of our long time Fiscal Officer Diane Homan. Thanks Diane for a job well done and best of luck in your new venture,” said Mayor Bob Anderson.

His report continues:

COURTS • EMERGENCY SERVICES • GOVERNMENT

Sidney Daily News, Friday, February 24, 2012

Page 6

Botkins completes busy year Village works on downtown streetscape project made for Issue 1 funds to replace the lift station on South Street but the grant was not awarded.

Service committee is reviewing possible street paving projects currently. It is budgeted to replace the cathodic protection system in the south water tank on County Road 25A. That same tank is slated to be painted sometime around 2013-14.

The fire department continues to look to the future concerning a new truck. Fire Chief Pat Fullenkamp has applied for a FEMA Assistance to Firefighters Grant to help cover some of the cost. The awards have yet to be announced.

This year new helmets, gloves, and turnout gear were purchased. Also, the tanker body was replaced.

Of note on the busi-

ness front, 2011 seemed a bit stronger than 2010.

An addition was put up at Brown Industrial; shifts were added at Boomerang Rubber; employment and production remain very steady at Agrana Fruit, US. Fall and winter saw a steady increase in expansion throughout Shelby County which kept our tradesmen busy hanging drywall, painting, doing electrical and plumbing work and in general construction.

The village was very pleased to see the opening of the Botkins Family Practice provided by Wilson Care of Sidney. Having Dr. Teresa Trygstad in town for three days a week has meant more personal attention and convenience to the citizens of Botkins. Her office is located at 111 E. Lynn Street.

The biggest news for the community in 2011 was the passing of the school levy on the first ballot. The school is slated to begin construction after September 2012. Currently several committees are meeting to discuss school design and site placement.

Several members of these committees have also toured other schools in the area to gather ideas.

The village is committed to being helpful throughout this process.

In addition, the village believes the school project may be the right thing to spur new home construction in the next five years. Development of the entire area around the school is a possibility.

The Botkins Athletic Boosters continued work on the new track/soccer sporting complex located at the Community Park.

The Boosters got a nice foundation of grass going for the soccer field and installed a fence.

Soon, a discus pad and a

shot put area will be created. Fundraising continues to support this project.

The Botkins Beautification Club approached the Village Council about converting greenspace at the corner of South Main Street and West South Street into a veterans park. Through the Louise Sheets Fund, money was secured to purchase a Greek pergola which will be put up in the spring. The park will be built through donations.

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BOTKINS — The village of Botkins had a very busy 2011. Most noticeably was the work on the downtown streetscape project from May until October.

“The beautification project consisted of new s i d e walks, curbs, Kent b r i c k work and decorative light poles,” said Village Administrator Jesse Kent. “In addition, the village replaced all of West State Street between the railroad track and Main Street. There are no ready plans for future phases and the ODOT transportation enhancement grant might be decimated with future state budget shortfalls.”

His report continues: Less visible, but just as important, was the work on the wastewater treatment plant. The $1.4 million construction job consisted of a new building, a new digester tank, machinery, pumps, blowers, and a generator.

The upgrades and new work will add years of service to the plant.

Tours will be offered in the spring.

The village does not foresee any major infrastructure projects for 2012. Application was

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COURTS • EMERGENCY SERVICES • GOVERNMENT

Sidney Daily News, Friday, February 24, 2012

Page 7

Holloway donates Pike Street facility to village of Jackson Center Pitts opened an embroidery shop on East Pike Street named The Pitt Shop. In November Heidi Zwiebel opened the Heidout on West Pike Street formerly known as Melvin’s.

In July ODOT repaved Main Street through the village which included new ADA ramps at all intersections, new asphalt and crosswalk markings.

In January a new screening project was completed at the Wastewater Treatment Facility.

The Electric department installed new aluminum poles and lights on West Street.

Twenty-three poles were also replaced that were deteriorating.

The Street department added a 2011 Freightliner dump truck with a snow plow and a pre wet system to the fleet.

In 2011, the Village of Jackson Center implemented a comprehensive

energy efficiency program for its local customers.

Working in partnership with American Municipal Power (AMP) and the Vermont Energy Investment Corp. (VEIC), Jackson Center Utilities will provide a wide range of energy-efficiency for the utility’s 765 residential, commercial and industrial customers.

The goal of the new venture, known as the “Efficiency Smart Power Plant,” is to encourage residential and business customers to adopt costeffective energy efficiency services that provide reliable and verifiable cost savings. Services offered initially will include (but are not limited to): rebates and incentives for the purchase of energy efficient lighting and appliances; and, customer incentives for commercial and industrial customers focusing on such tech-

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ation included a recreational area north of the existing meeting room and food pantry. The newly remodeled area (2,590 square feet) will include a basketball/volleyball area (25 feet by 50 feet), revised exercise room (9 feet by 30 feet), storage and an office. An open house is planned in early 2012.

Jackson Center continues to hold community activities including Community Days, Family Fun Day, Village Christmas, Make a Difference Day and Alumapalooza.

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A 2011 Freightliner dump truck with a snow plow was added to the fleet of vehicles for the village of Jackson Center. nologies as lighting, another alteration to the HVAC, motors and former Leininger Lumber drives.

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JACKSON CENTER — The village of Jackson Center and the community experienced a challenging year due to the recession.

Holloway SportsMetz wear Inc. closed their Jackson Center facility in July 2011 with the relocation of the facility to Mexico which was a loss of 90 jobs in the community.

Village Administrator Bruce Metz has submitted the following report: In November of 2011 Holloway Sportswear donated its facility located at 607 E. Pike S. to the village. The 90,000square-foot facility has 18,000-square-foot of office and 72,000-squarefoot of warehousing. The village preformed a phase I and II environmental study on the property before accepting the facility.

The village is using the facility for storage of equipment and materials that were stored in several locations and outside due to the lack of space.

The consolidation to one facility will be studied along with the possibility of offering the building for economic development.

Several new businesses were started during the past year. In April Steven Butts opened S & K Auto Repair on West Pike Street. In May Joni

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COURTS • EMERGENCY SERVICES • GOVERNMENT

Sidney Daily News, Friday, February 24, 2012

Page 8

Kettlersville has new mayor to begin new year; Shumate chosen president KETTLERSVILLE — The Kettlersville Village Council m e e t s the first Tuesday of the month at 8 p.m. in Council Chambers, located at Kaminsky 8 8 4 4 State Route 274.

“I was elected mayor in November 2011, after serving on the Village Council for nearly 10 years,” said Eric Kaminsky. “I had also served as council president for the past several years. I succeeded Ben Bowsher.

Elected to full terms along with me were John Shumate and Wlaine Staton, who both had previously been appointed to council to fill unexpired terms. Shumate, a former mayor, was chosen as council president at the January 2012 meeting.”

Other members of council are Bart Shus-

ter, Brian Shuster and Roland Kettler. The fiscal officer is Linda Miller. The The Zoning Officer is Randy Wentz.

Kaminsky’s report continues: Construction on the sanitary sewer system, which has been in the planning and engineering stages for several years, began in October 2011, and to date all the main lines on North Street, South Street, Easy Avenue, Kettlersville Road, McCartyville Road and Ohio 274 have been installed.

Work is being done by VTF Construction of Celina, under a contract with Shelby County, and now continues on the areas outside of the core of the village. Funding is being provided by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the state of Ohio. The system is expected to be completed and operational by late summer 2012. It will connect to the county sewer system in McCartyville.

Dippers Delight

Ohio 274 through the village will be resurfaced by ODOT in late spring as part of another major project by the state.

The village was also awarded a grant to replace a storm drain from the alley between North Street and Ohio 274.

Work on that project will occur this spring.

Infrastructure improvements, notably streets and storm drains, are among the top goals of the new mayor. Another area for potential improvement and upgrades is the park on the north edge of village.

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Sidney Daily News, Friday, February 24, 2012

2011 was successful year for Perry Township Trustees PASCO — “The year 2011 was a successful one for Perry Township Trustees and we are looking forward to continued improvements in the year Barhorst to come,” Matthew Barhorst, trustee, reports. “We are striving to serve the needs of our township.

His report continues: Cedar Point Cemetery held a community tribute to all our veterans with our Memorial Day service. We are pleased to be able to include the Fairlawn band, local officials and keynote speakers from Perry Township.

This year we worked with Sidney Municipal Court to secure labor for trimming and mowing assistance at Cedar Point Cemetery with no cost to

our budget. Transportation was also handled at minimal cost by Shelby County Transit. This beneficial program was utilized by our township at a considerable cost savings.

We were able to procure Issue One funds for paving and berming of 1.42 miles of JohnstonSlagle Road.

This amounted to a savings of $28,312 for Perry Township.

Our continued goal is to better serve our community. A new snow plow was purchased this year for our existing truck.

Keeping up with ever changing times, we have added a cremation only garden area at the cemetery.

Most important, with no additional cost to residents, trustees have passed a resolution asking permission to build a Township Service Building. The state requires voters to approve any building improvement at

a cost greater than $50,000. The maintenance facility will be built with funds the township has received from estate taxes.

The facility would serve the needs of citizens by providing administrative offices, meeting space for elected officials, a voting location, and civic group meetings. We will be able to store equipment to maintain roads, ditches and other property.

A new facility would provide much-needed area for maintenance and operation of Cedar Point Cemetery. The building would be handicap accessible to insure that all citizens have access throughout.

This would be a great improvement for our community with no additional cost to Perry Township residents We ask for your support on the March 6 election ballot.

Salem Township completes projects PORT JEFFERSON — Accomplishments for Salem Township in 2011 involved several road maintenance projects.

“Trees were trimmed on Lochard Road between Mason and Fort Loramie Swanders Road,” said Richard Herrick, who was chairman in 2011, and Fiscal Officer Denise Palmer.

“Also Issue 1 grant monies were used to resurface Lochard Road from Fort LoramieSwanders to the town-

ship line.”

Their report continues: Pavement was repaired on the east section of Mason Road.

Side ditches were mowed four times during the season and the snow plow was out on several occasions. A couple of culverts were replaced within the township and several zoning issues were attended to.

Glen Cemetery held 48 services and sold 24 cemetery plots. Thirty-

one foundations were poured. A sign and flag pole were erected at the township building to add a more complete look to the building.

Goals for 2012 comprise of tree trimming on Mason Road, between Pasco-Montra and Sidney-Fryburg.

Trustees also intend to check the roads for brush trimming around signs and intersections.

Additional road maintenace to be addressed as funds become available.

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COURTS • EMERGENCY SERVICES • GOVERNMENT

Sidney Daily News, Friday, February 24, 2012

Page 10

Auditor’s Office busy with real estate revaluations in 2011 logued, a team of appraisal specialists reviewed every property to make sure the data in our system matched reality in the field.

Once this had been done, market statistics for the various parts of Shelby County were gathered and entered into the overall valuation formula. Finally, when all of the changes and fine-tuning had been accomplished, our abstract of values was submitted to the Ohio Deptartment of Taxation for review. Only after our proposed values were approved by the State could we apply tax rates and determine actual tax amounts.

On average, residential values in Shelby County dropped by about 5 percent. However, with so many changes and adjustments having been made, some properties dropped considerably more than average while some homes actually increased in value.

The state-operated current agricultural Use Value (CAUV) formula produced an increase of more than 100% in farmland values compared to three years ago.

This is a reflection of the favorable market prices for grain, better crop yields, and low interest rates that are

making the farming business more profitable than in the past.

It should be noted that the average value of local farmland under the new CAUV formula is around $1,250 per acre. Prior to this year it was about $550 per acre.

In spite of the very high percentage of increase this year, the CAUV program continues to deliver a very favorable valuation with taxable values at approximately 20% of true market value. No other type of real estate, residential or commercial, enjoys this favorable treatment for taxes. All

others have their taxes based on full market value.

In the final analysis, even with the increased taxes on farmland, and considering new construction, the overall amount of taxes paid in the County remained just about equal to 2010. There was no bonanza to any local government or school district as some have surmised.

The Auditor’s Office also continued with our budgetary and other responsibilities during 2011. It is a fairly well publicized fact that the County has been operating with seriously re-

duced revenues since 2009. Our locally derived income streams are now returning to a more normal level. Our sales taxes are projected to be almost back to 2008 levels in 2012.

By far, our largest revenue problem is State funding. By 2013, cuts in our Local Government Fund and TPP replacement money will be more than a million dollars.

This amounts to a 64

percent cut in state funding and means that (along with municipalities and townships) $3 million less of taxpayer dollars will be injected into the Shelby County economy each year.

It is our belief that these huge cuts were both unfair and unnecessary. We urge local citizens to let our legislators know that sending local funds elsewhere is not acceptable.

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Real estate revaluation was a major focus of the Shelby County Auditor’s Office in 2011.

Shelby County Auditor Dennis York has York released the following report: This task is undertaken every six years in each Ohio county. The process actually takes more than two years to complete. Starting in November of 2009, representatives of our appraisal company went into the field to photograph every structure in the entire county.

Also, in the Spring of 2010, an aerial flyover produced photos of all property.

During that same period, letters were sent to all homeowners along with a copy of our records concerning their residence. Homeowners were asked to compare our records with the facts about their home and to advise us of corrections.

Since this step had never been taken before, literally thousands of changes were brought to our attention.

After all of these photos and change forms had been cata-

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COURTS • EMERGENCY SERVICES • GOVERNMENT

Sidney Daily News, Friday, February 24, 2012

Page 11

Clerk of Court’s Office notes many achievements in 2011 ing notifications of all outstanding account receivables. This started in late September 2011 and has resulted in the collection of over $20,000 in three months. As we cycled through the notices, the second stage of the process began by expanding resources to collect the outstanding balances.

This collection process is largely automated, making it much more efficient than the manual procedure used in the past.

Like many businesses, our costs of doing business continued to rise in 2011. For example, postal fees have had several increases over the past few years. This had the immediate negative affect of increasing court costs because the costs of sending

documents are charged to each case. A serious look at filing fee deposits found we charged less than many of our neighboring counties. In fact, we charged less than most counties in the state. Due to the Ohio Revised Code, many fees could not be changed; however, we could adjust the amount of the initial deposits. This resulted in more court costs compensated up front and less outstanding balances owed to the court.

Additional noteworthy achievements occurred on a daily basis. In the legal office we handled approximately 85,500 filings in 2011 or roughly 7,100 per month. This was roughly 10,500 more than in 2010. Our dis-

bursements, including garnishment, appraiser and restitution payments, totaled more than half of a million dollars.

In addition, we sent out more than 2,600 jury summons notifications.

In the title office, we processed more than 18,000 auto titles or on the average, 1,500 per month. We also made 500 watercraft titles, most of which are done from June through August. Our title office collected and paid more than $3.3 million in taxes to the state of Ohio in 2011. This was an increase of almost $457,000 in taxes paid to the state in 2010. I’m proud to say both offices worked very hard and accomplished a great deal while operating at minimum capacity

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On the horizon is a complete software overhaul for the title offices throughout the state of Ohio and e filing is the buzz in the legal office.

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more with less, both offices not only met, but surpassed my expectations. My staff is comprised of Chief Deputy Jamie Arnold, Administrative Assistant Paula Butterfield, Legal Office Manager Linda Byram, Title Office Manager Michelle “Chell” Everett, Deputy Bev Dunlap, Deputy Patty Glass, Deputy Elizabeth Morris, Deputy Joe’l Carr and Deputy Stacy Dickerson.

I am proud of the staff I have and the work we do.

One goal accomplished was the introduction of online public records and document images. In partnership with Common Pleas Court Judge James Stevenson, this addition was provided to offer a better service to the public, local and out of town attorneys, and court staff. The response has been very favorable.

We have also implemented an automated collection process which was introduced in two stages. The first stage was the process of send-

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This past year has been a year of achievements for t h e Shelby County Clerk of Courts office. “ While the econ o m i c condiMumford t i o n s challenged us, we continued to strive toward meeting customer expectations, increasing efficiencies and increasing revenues,” said Michele Mumford, Clerk of Courts. “New projects were implemented, existing services were improved, and new processes were introduced to enable us to meet our goals. However, all of the projects, services, and processes in the world won’t succeed unless there are dedicated, hardworking, competent, caring and team oriented staff.

Her report continues: During a time of doing

COURTS • EMERGENCY SERVICES • GOVERNMENT

Sidney Daily News, Friday, February 24, 2012

Page 12

Slow ecomony impacts Recorder’s Office The slow economy has proven to impact the Shelby C o u n t y Recorder’s office again this past year.

“Receipts for the office were down about 11 percent from 2010,” said Recorder Jodi Siegel. “A large Siegel part of the business we have seen this past year was due to refinancing. Although interest rates

were at a historical low, the number of mortgages filed in 2011 was down 13 percent from the year 2010. Deed transfers were down only 5 percent, but unexpectedly, the number of Sheriff deeds filed was down 30 percent. The revenue for 2011 is definitely down from 2010, but the traffic in the office has remained steady.”

Her report continues: The Recorder’s office has historically been known as an office to generate revenue for the county’s general fund, but

most individuals are not aware of how much revenue the Recorder’s office generates for the State of Ohio. Nearly half of the revenue generated from the Recorder’s office is sent to the State of Ohio and is designated for the Ohio Housing Trust Fund.

A bill was passed and took effect in 2003 which requires county recorders to collect fees for the Ohio Housing Trust Fund. This has not taken away from any of the county’s revenue as the bill also doubled all Ohio county recorder fees.

Since the inception of this bill, the Shelby County Recorder’s office has collected $2,069,166.

One percent of this fee was retained by the county general fund to cover administrative cost. The balance was sent to the state of Ohio.

The Treasurer of State shall deposit the first 50 million dollars of housing trust fund fees collected each year into the low and moderate-income housing trust fund. Any amount in excess of $50 million goes to the state’s general revenue fund. It has generally been difficult to

find statistics which represent how much of these funds have come back to benefit Shelby County over the last nine years.

All of the records kept by the Recorder’s office, with the exception of Veteran Discharges, are public record. We welcome all individuals and will be happy to assist those stopping in to obtain records or just wishing to look up information. Our office hours are 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 8:30 a.m. to noon on Friday.

Reisinger named RPC executive director Patricia Hamberg hired as administrative assistant “With the March 31, 2011 retirement of Executive Director Gary Bensman, the remainder of the year was challenging, as well as exhilarating, with the added responsibility of filling some pretty excepReisinger tional shoes,” said Dianna Reisinger, executive director of the Shelby County Regional Planning Comission.

“Luckily, I am able to rely on

Gary’s continued guidance and support when needed.

For that, I am extremely grateful.”

Her report continues: The Regional Planning office has added a new face with the hiring of Patricia Hamberg as administrative assistant. In 2011 we processed 18 surveys, which included the creation of 12 new lots, totaling approximately 35 acres. Six flood plain building permits were issued and two enterprise zone agreements penned.

Improvements to the wastewater treatment plant

in Arrowhead Subdivision (Washington Township) have been completed in part with CDBG-Formula-10 funds, as well as resurfacing of a portion of McCartyville Road in Van Buren Township. Formula-11 funds have been committed to Kettlersville for storm water sewer improvements in 2012.

Through the Community Housing Improvement Program Grant, (CHIP-09), we were able to improve six homes with full rehab projects, eight homes with singular home repairs, and six homes with new or repaired

septic systems, as well as providing rental assistance through Shelby Metropolitan Housing Authority. With the granting of CHIP-11 funds, we are committed to improving five homes with full rehabs, six homes with singular home repairs, and three homes with septic system repairs or replacements in 2012. Applications are being accepted for low to moderate-income households. (See chart below for eligibility criteria).

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COURTS • EMERGENCY SERVICES • GOVERNMENT

Sidney Daily News, Friday, February 24, 2012

Page 13

Welcome change: unemployment drops The year 2011 brought a welcome change in t h e Shelby County economy.

“The unemployment rate in Shelby County Dodds d e creased considerably in 2011,” said W. Michael Dodds, director of the West Ohio Development Council. “The January 2011 unemployment rate was 11.1 percent;

by November 2011 the unemployment rate dropped to 7.7 percent.”

His report continues: Nearly 1,000 jobs were created or reinstated during the year. Many employers recalled all of

their laid off workers and added new employees to replace a retiring workforce or provide for increase production. It is anticipated that this trend will continue into 2012 since several new projects in the County are being discussed and currently in the planning stages.

Also during 2011, Honda’s Anna Engine plant began construction of a 320,000-squarefoot parts consolidation center which will begin operations in early 2012.

This multi-million dollar center will enhance manufacturing efficiency and flexibility by reducing parts handling and eliminating truck shuttles. This efficiency benefits the environment with fewer truck runs, resulting in less

fuel consumption and lower CO2 emissions.

The new parts consolidation center is part of a series of recent investments Honda is making at its Ohio facilities, which total more than $355 million.

Dickman Supply announced plans to expand and add 15 new jobs.

Dickman’s rapidly growing Electro Controls was approved for tax credit incentives by the state of Ohio and will be making a $500,000 investment by adding 18,000square-feet to its existing facility and creating new electrical technician positions.

Reliable Castings, an employee owned company, is expanding their facility with a new building addition to provide additional space for

new equipment and to expand production. In addition to the expansion, Reliable plans to hire additional personnel for the increased production.

Several local companies are considering the need for more space to provide for sufficient production and warehouse space. Some have found it necessary to move their entire operations to larger buildings; some are building additions to the existing structures to meet their needs. The availability of high quality buildings has made it possible to keep these businesses in Shelby County. A number of companies have added new equipment and restructured their processes to accommodate new business demand.

Many of the automotive parts manufacturers as well as the food processing companies have seen an increase in demand for their products. This increase has resulted in a number of new jobs created to meet the demand. Unfortunately, many employers are finding it difficult to find employees with the skills needed to fill these positions. It will be critical for the continued success of our companies that the community provides the necessary training and skills to meet the employment needs of our industries. The West Ohio Development Council is exploring ways to assist local business and education to provide a workforce prepared for the present

and future demands.

During 2011, the West Ohio Development Council provided information to more than 16 companies considering a location in west central Ohio. In addition, meetings with three international companies that plan to expand into the United States took place. These international companies already have relationships with local companies and want to locate closer to the client.

Hopefully the trend for increased economic activity and employment will continue to rise in 2012. Based on informal surveys of local business, it appears that Shelby County is recovering from the recession — slowly but steadily.

Treasurer’s Office has challenging year This has been another year of challenges for the c o u n t y, with the state cutting funding to counties and the s l o w economy, the offices and agen- Meininger c i e s within have become more efficient on less.

“While this is happening we have had to look for ways to eliminate or reduce some services considered not as important

or essential,” said Shelby County Treasurer Linda Meininger.

Her report continues: The treasurer’s office has kept its budget the same as last year and is very conservative when it comes to spending. We now serve our largest mortgage escrow accounts tape to tape and it saves printing more than 5,000 bills. Our prepay taxpayers no longer receive envelopes for their monthly payments. This year we started automatically deducting payments from taxpayers checking or savings ac-

counts, this offers another convenient way to pay. We are always looking for ways to rethink, reshape and still provide the services. We appreciate the taxpayers patience, as the bulk of our mail arrives in a couple days and it takes time to process.

The investments have remained safe, but with not as great a return as we have had in the past.

It appears the rates will still remain low through 2013 due to the Federal Reserve Policies. Managing the funds at the bottom of the interest rate

cycle is being accomplished by investing in shorter term securities.

As the rates increase the portfolio yields adjust to a new interest rate quickly.

The treasurer’s office is here to help you with payment plans or prepays if you are not on escrow with a bank. We collected a little over a million dollars this past year in delinquency.

Active duty military personnel are allowed an extension for payment of real estate & manufactured home tax by H.B. 390. Also the veteran’s of-

fice is available to give assistance to veterans.

We accept credit cards on Visa, Master Card and Discover, but the convenience fee is paid by the taxpayer.

As an elected official in public service I began serving the taxpayers the moment the first vote was cast in my favor, and I continue to do so to this day. The old adage: The more you give, the more you receive holds true, but in every instance what we choose to give is in our hands.

I read once that success is not final and fail-

ure is not fatal, it is the courage to continue that counts. We have a wonderful county with a bright future as long as we continue to work together as elected officials.

The treasurer’s office hours are Monday through Thursday 8:30 to 4:30 p.m. and Friday 8:30 a.m. to noon. Our main phone number is (937)498-7281.We are located on the third floorof the Shelby County Annex, 129 E. Court St., Sidney. For your convenience you can view your taxes online: www.shelbycountytreasurer.com.

COURTS • EMERGENCY SERVICES • GOVERNMENT

Sidney Daily News, Friday, February 24, 2012

Page 14

Community Service Department kept busy with permits, grants, inspections The Sidney Community Services Department is responsible for ensuring compliance with the city of Sidney’s o r d i nances for the Dulworth development and continued maintenance of every property in Sidney, including review and approval of permits, inspections, and enforcement of the city’s ordinances.

Director Barbara Dulworth has submitted the following report: The year 2011 marked the retirement of the city’s long-time Code Enforcement Offi-

cer, Patricia Hamberg.

Her replacement, Kirby King, began code enforcement in May, and immediately began learning the laws, process and methods to effective and efficient enforcement. The following summarizes other activities completed by the Community Services Department in 2011.

Residential development: Permits were issued for eight new single family dwellings, with a total construction cost of $1,435,000. Fortytwo building permits were issued for activities such as new garages, accessory storage buildings, additions, porches and decks as well as 232 permits for electric, HVAC and miscellaneous activities.

Commercial and in-

dustrial development: Twenty-one site plan permits were issued in 2011, with a total construction cost of over $6.06 million. Some of the highlights of commercial and industrial development include construction of a new auto parts store; construction of four equipment buildings throughout town to help serve the data, phone, and video needs of the community; and additions and renovations to over ten different commercial and industrial facilities. Thirty-two zoning certificates of occupancy were issued for new businesses.

Grants: The city completed the FY ‘09 Community Housing Improvement Program (CHIP) in early 2011,

and successfully applied for $500,000 in the FY ’11 CHIP program.

Home rehabilitation and home repairs will be started in 2012 and will continue, as funds allow, through the first half of 2013.

The city also began environmental assessment work on the old Wagner Manufacturing site between Fair Road and Wilkinson Avenue through a USEPA Brownfield Assessment grant of $185,000 and received approval of further assessment funding through the Clean Ohio Assistance Fund. The assessment and remediation plans should be completed by the summer of 2012. At that point, further grant funding can be requested to remediate

any environmental hazards and demolish the buildings.

Inspections and Enforcement: During 2011, the Code Enforcement Officer assisted with plans for a new program: Neighborhood Beautification. In addition, he completed a review of the ordinances, policies, and procedures related to code enforcement. In addition, the Code Enforcement department inspected and required compliance on a total of 592 violations, including junk, junk vehicle, trash and debris, weeds and grass, and other property maintenance regulations.

2012 Looking Ahead: The first cycle of thecCity’s new Neighborhood Beautification program will be the

spring of 2012. The goal of this award program is to recognize the efforts of residential property owners in the city of Sidney who have improved the exterior of a home through landscaping, renovation, and/or clean up. The first awards will be announced during the week after Memorial Day. In addition, building inspection staff will begin the education of residents for the new regulation and permit requirements for temporary/seasonal pools.

With environmental assessment work completed in the first part of 2012, the city will take the second half the year to complete plans and grant applications on the road to clean-up, demolition, and reuse of the Wagner Manufacturing

Sidney’s income tax collection increases in 2011 In spite of uncertain income tax revenues and loss of stateshared funding, the city of Sidney continues to manage its financial resources well.

“Sidney’s income tax collections Adams ended 2011 at $12.86 million, a 6.4 percent increase over 2010,” said Ginger Adams, finance officer. “While good news,

collections remain below pre-recession income tax collections of $13.52 million in 2007 (see Exhibit 1 on this page). Income tax is the city’s primary revenue source and supports services including street improvements, police, fire, emergency medical services, parks and community recreation. Income tax collections for 2012 are budgeted to decrease to $12.14 million, reflecting a more ‘normal’ level of taxes collected from business net profits and a modest increase in taxes

withheld from employees.”

Her report continues: City Council and staff have taken actions over the past few years to maintain financial stability. The city’s workforce is down 52 positions since 2008 by keeping most vacated positions unfilled and laying off some seasonal, part-time and fulltime positions (see Exhibit 2 on Page 15). Many vehicle and capital purchases are deferred, an effective shortterm strategy, but more costly over time as mainSee FINANCE/Page 15

COURTS • EMERGENCY SERVICES • GOVERNMENT

Sidney Daily News, Friday, February 24, 2012

Page 15

Public Works Department evolves in 2011

FINANCE taining aging equipment and infrastructure is more expensive. A prime example of this is the condition of Sidney’s streets, which have deteriorated noticeably.

Funding limitations, coupled with higher asphalt prices, puts the resurfacing program on a 45+ year replacement cycle instead of a more acceptable 12- to 15-year cycle. With the failure of the November 2011 ballot proposal to levy an additional 0.25 percent income tax dedicated to street resurfacing, Sidney will continue to repair and replace roadways as limited funding permits.

Going into 2011, there was concern that the state of Ohio, in balancing their budget shortfall, would reduce Local Government Fund (LGF) distributions to municipalities. Not only did the State’s biennial budget beginning July 1, 2011 reduce LGF distributions by 50 percent, it eliminated estate tax distributions and tangible personal property tax reimbursement.

These

State budget cuts reduced the city’s 2011 revenue by about $360,000 and will reduce 2012 revenues by nearly $440,000. In 2013, these reductions will translate into about $800,000 less revenue.

These reductions make it even more challenging to properly fund basic services such as police and fire protection and maintenance of city streets.

The state of Ohio now appears poised to draft legislation, which would result in the State taking over the collection of local income taxes. Such a move will likely result in higher costs to Sidney, less effective collections, and a reduction in service to our taxpayers as our local staff will answer questions and prepare your Sidney tax return free of charge. For the 2011 return (due by April 17, 2012), please contact us at tax@sidneyoh.com or 498-8111 for questions. Our office is in City Hall at 201 W. Poplar St. (An exemption form is available for retired or disabled residents having no Sidney taxable income.)

From Page 14 Sidney maintains low utility rates. In a 2011 City of Oakwood report, Sidney’s rates were 5th lowest of 63 municipalities. Sidney is 28 percent below the average, 19 percent lower than Troy and 40 percent lower than Piqua. Funding continues for a new Water Source to provide an adequate future water supply. Since 2007, the city has set aside $1.3 million as a “down payment” for the project.

In 2011, Sidney refinanced about $7.1 million of existing debt saving the city about $85,000 per year. Standard & Poor’s acknowledged the City’s “strong financial management policies” when it once again reaffirmed the City’s AA bond rating, a considerable achievement given recent economic times. The city’s 2012 budget and our most recently audited financial statements (as well as a Citizens’ Summary Financial Report) can be accessed at Sidney’s website at www.sidneyoh.com/Finance/Fina nce_dept.html.

The year 2011 was an evolving year for the city of Sidn e y ’ s Public Works Department.

“The biggest challenge w a s m a i n Clark taining a high level of service to the residents of Sidney under a difficult economy,” said Public Works Director Chris Clark.

Public Works employees have many responsibilities. The following are a few highlights of the services provided.

Engineering In 2011, the city’s engineering needs were contracted out to a local engineering consultant.

Four positions within the engineering division were eliminated resulting in substantial operational savings.

The streamlined Engineering Department, under the supervision of Randy Magoto, works on numerous projects and services in a wide array of involvement levels, a few of which include: surveying, design services, construction inspection, estimating, construction contract administration, grant writing and support services for other departments within the city.

In 2011 staff worked on several projects: • Brookside Park Development

• Wapakoneta Avenue Reconstruction Phase I • Carey Street Reconstruction • McMillen Park Improvements • 2011 Sidewalk and Curb Program • 2011 Street Resurfacing • 2011 ODOT Urban Paving Program • Russell Road and Main Avenue Traffic Signal • Bridge Load Ratings • Bridge Inspections • Sidney Municipal Airport Runway Expansion The following are projects scheduled for 2012: • Complete design and initiate easement acquisitions for the Wapakoneta Ave Phase II Reconstruction Project (Russell Road to Parkwood). Construction is scheduled for 2013.

• Downtown Traffic Signal Improvements • Southwest Sanitary Sewer Manhole Rehab Project • Sewer Rehab Project in CDBG Investment Area No. 3 • 2012 Sidewalk and Curb Program • 2012 Street Resurfacing • 2012 ODOT Urban Paving Program Engineering has also provided many services in 2011 to contractors and residents some of which include: sidewalk and driveway inspections, right-of-way opening permits, sanitary sewer connection inspec-

tions, construction standards and site plan review, traffic counts and oversize hauling permits. City residents may contact the City Engineering Department at 498-8142 Street Department The Street Department is supervised by Street Superintendent Marty Keifer. The Street Department’s responsibilities include: asphalt maintenance of roadways, parking lots and alleys, mosquito abatement, snow and ice removal, street sweeping, leaf pick-up, maintenance and repair of 48 traffic controlled intersections, maintenance and repair of street lights in the Court Square and on the North Street bridge, maintenance and repair of approximately 5,000 traffic and street signs, roadway traffic markings and street tree maintenance.

In 2011, just more than 2.5 miles of roadway were paved, just under three-fourths of a mile of concrete curb and gutter was replaced, more than 200,000 linear feet of traffic markings were painted, five roadways were crack sealed, asphalt rejuvenator was sprayed over five roadways, four alleys and one parking lot. The city completed an Emerald Ash Borer grant that removed 14 ash trees and replanted 14 non ash trees. The department responded to 25 See EVOLVES/Page 16

COURTS • EMERGENCY SERVICES • GOVERNMENT

Sidney Daily News, Friday, February 24, 2012

Page 16

City dedicates Brookside Park to Tawawa Park Brookside Park was dedicated on Oct. 15, 2 0 1 1 , adding an additional 27 acres to Sidney’s 192-acre Ta w a w a P a r k .

“Thanks to donaGaier t i o n s from Cargill Corp. and an Ohio Department of Natural Resources grant, the parcel was developed into a bicycle and pedestrian only nature preserve,” said Duane Gaier, Parks and Recreation Department director for the city of Sidney. “The 1.6 miles of paved and mulched trails winding throughout, lead to two overlooks with spectacular views of the valley around Tawawa Creek to the north and the hand dug “cut” for the Big Four Railroad to the south. This property gives park users access to meadows, old wood forest, and approximately 3,000 feet of frontage along Tawawa Creek. Four small shelters strategically placed in the park allow the user to enjoy a carried in

lunch, to view nature, or to get out of the rain.”

His report continues: This year there were many private contributions for the benefit of the city parks. Whether it was the many Eagle Scout endeavors within the parks, or contributions made in memory of a loved one to fund a project, these enhancements provided new amenities for park patrons. Also, there were local business monetary and in-kind donations that assisted with improvements.

These donations completed projects such as drainage and safety improvements to the fields at Custenborder, and trail clearing and trash removal along a few miles of the more than 16 miles of trails that the city’s park department maintains. We are fortunate to have businesses and individuals that give back to the community for the benefit of others.

Improvements to McMillen Park and Carey Street, which leads to the park, were funded by a CDBG grant in 2011. McMillen Park received a facelift including a new and enlarged parking lot. Sidewalks were poured, connecting

EVOLVES snow and ice events.

As a result of the economy, the city has not been able to fill four positions in the Street Department. This presents a challenge in meeting the needs of the public. The Public Works Director

has established a “Work Pool” whereby other Public Works department personnel are assigned to the Street Department for special projects and daily work assignments.

The sharing of personnel means that preventative

Photo provided

TWO NEW overlooks have been constructed at Brookside Park. the parking lot to the pedestrian sidewalk along Court Street; additional new walks provided access to the shelter, basketball court, and newly installed water fountain. The play equipment was relocated for closer access to the shelter, and trees that were removed due to the construction were replaced with new plant-

ings. New asphalt, curb, and sidewalk, were installed on Carey Street, leading to the newly constructed parking lot.

The 2011 summer food program served 5,498 meals this past summer. This is an increase from the 5,127 total in 2010. These meals are free to all children that come to one of the four designated

parks (Humphrey, Green Tree, Brown, and Berger) and the Alpha Community Center during the summer months.

Last year, the City contracted with Wilson Memorial Hospital to prepare the hot meals that are provided each day at these locations.

This program was funded through a grant from The Ohio Depart-

ment of Agriculture.

Parks staff will be requesting the addition of a sixth site, Sherman Park, to the food program in 2012.

Recreation programming returned in 2011 thanks to donations of either time or funds by individuals, organizations, or corporations to operate the clinics for the city’s youth. Thirteen programs were offered this past year with 663 participants involved in clinics such as basketball, soccer, a fishing derby and many more.

2012 Goals • Reinstate agreement with the Shelby County Sheriff’s office to operate the work release program, utilizing prisoners for city maintenance • Operate six sites for the summer food program (Adding Sherman Park) • Laser grade infields at Custenborder for improved drainage Resurface Flanagan Sports Complex parking lot and drive • Replace play structures at Geib Pavilion (Tawawa) and the front entrance at Custenborder using generous gifts from private donors.

From Page 15 maintenance and other water and sewer programs must now receive lower priority. Over the long term, this will affect certain city services. city staff continues to work hard to address all citizen issues.

Providing you better service is our goal.

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COURTS • EMERGENCY SERVICES • GOVERNMENT

Sidney Daily News, Friday, February 24, 2012

Page 17

Utilities Department’s divisions share highlights of 2011 accomplishments The city of Sidney’s Utilities Department — consisting of the Water Treatment Plant, Wastewater Treatment Plant, Stormwater Monitoring, and Underground Utilities — was combined with the Public Works Department in 2010 in order to streamline administration and effectively share labor. The city of Sidney’s combined Public Works Department experienced an active year for 2011.

The following are a few highlights of the Utilities Department.

Water Treatment Plant The Water Treatment Plant is supervised by Superintendent Larry Broughton. In 2011, the Water Treatment Plant processed and treated 1.13 billion gallons of drinking water for the public. Some of the activities of the Water Treatment Plant that were completed in 2011 included the rehabilitation of lime sludge collector; and concrete repair in the south settling and recarbonation basins.

Several projects were completed in 2011 with ARRA funding. These include new high service pumps; SCADA system upgrade; new electric actuators for high service piping; and new fiber optic communications.

City Staff continues with the land acquisition phase of the Water Source Study. The development and construction

of the wellfield and transmission main will occur at a later date.

When developed, this new water source will enable the Water Treatment Plant to better serve the community for many years to come and allow for future growth.

Wastewater Treatment Plant The Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) is supervised by Superintendent Brian Schultz. The WWTP is designated a Class IV facility (highest designation) by the Ohio EPA based on its design capacity and complexity of the treatment processes. In 2011, the WWTP treated over 2.2 billion gallons of wastewater from the city’s sewer system and provided additional treatment for nearly 600 dry tons of biosolids.

The WWTP received a renewed NPDES permit from Ohio EPA in 2011.

This permit contains requirements that are more stringent and will require substantial modifications to the WWTP over the next few years.

Staff has selected a Consultant to assist the City in evaluating potential improvements to achieve compliance with the more stringent requirements as cost effectively as possible.

In 2011, the Ohio EPA inspected the WWTP and Laboratory, the Industrial Pretreatment Program and the

Biosolids Land Application program. As with the 2010 inspection, there were no deficiencies noted. In addition, the laboratory received a 100 percent acceptable rating on analyses performed through a separate Ohio EPA required oversight program.

Stormwater Monitoring The Storm Water Monitoring Program, administered through the WWTP, continues to maintain the city’s compliance with the Ohio

EPA’s required six minimum control measures for improving storm water quality. Some of the activities associated with this program are the Clean Sweep of the Great Miami River, stenciling of storm drains, providing educational material to the public on water quality issues, enforcement of the storm water ordinances, and inspections of the storm sewer system.

Underground Utilities The Underground

Utilities Division is supervised by Superintendent Dave Wood. The Underground Utilities Division’s responsibilities include maintaining the Water Distribution System, Sanitary Sewers, and Storm Sewer Maintenance. In 2011, the Underground Utilities Staff cleaned approximately 110,308 feet of sanitary sewers; televised 66,975 feet of sanitary sewers to determine sources of clean water intrusion or identify problems with the sewer

main; performed grout repairs to 3,936 feet of sanitary sewers; maintained eight sanitary and storm pump stations throughout the City; replaced 74 catch basins and repaired 24 water main breaks throughout the city; repaired 80 fire hydrants and replaced an additional seven. Residents have become familiar with the annual spring and fall hydrant flushing process conducted by the Utilities Department.

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COURTS • EMERGENCY SERVICES • GOVERNMENT

Sidney Daily News, Friday, February 24, 2012

Page 18

Sheriff’s Office has busy year The Shelby County Sheriff ’s Office had another busy year in 2011 and will be looking forward into 2012 to provide the residents of Shelby County with professional and courteous law enforcement and public safety services using cooperative efforts.

Sheriff John Lenhart and his staff have reviewed the 2012 budget from top to bottom and trimmed it to $3,756,995. This is comparable to the budget in 2001 and is $88,064 lower than last year. We are proud to have shaved a half-million dollars from our budget over the last 11 years when operating costs have continued to rise.

Lenhart’s report continues: The county dispatch center logged 19,452 calls for service. 1,285 calls for emergency medical services (EMS), and 601 calls for county fire departments and the remaining 17,982 calls were for law enforcement.

There were 420 crashes in Shelby County that were handled by sheriff ’s deputies; 203 of these involved vehicles striking animals, primarily deer. There were 56 accidents that involved injuries, 10 people were ejected from their vehicle, 11 people were trapped inside their vehicle and had to be extricated by Fire and EMS personnel, and seven people suffered fatal injuries.

Reserve deputies, volunteers vital Shelby County reserve deputies and other volunteer personnel have filled another vital part in the operation of the Sheriff’s Office this year. They worked road patrol, sex offender compliancy checks, communications, jail operations and at the animal shelter.

Section Supported Hours Worked Road Patrol, SORN and jail operations . . 4012.5 Dispatch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 455 Animal Shelter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2850 There are a lot of functions or duties of the Sheriff’s Office that generate funds used to operate the Sheriff’s Office, these are summarized below:

Revenue Generation Function Revenue Generated SDN Photo/Luke Gronneberg, File City of Sidney Inmate Work Detail .........$ 57,000 SIDNEY POLICE Chief Kevin Gessler (left) and Shelby County Sheriff John Inmate Commissary............................$ 13,376.94 Lenhart shake hands as they re-establish the joint drug task force in Shelby Inmate Phone Card.............................$ 21,399.06 County in December.

Dog Tag Sales .........................................$ 103,000 WebCheck/Background Checks .................$ 5,943 In 2011 there were gone, who will be check- Ohio Office of Criminal Concealed Carry Weapon Permits...........$ 13,515 677 cases filed in the ing their mail, and how Justice Services.

Port Jefferson Patrol Agreement.............$ 12,000 courts in Shelby County to contact the resident It is a pleasure and Grants Applied for and/or Awarded by the Sheriff ’s Office; or key holder (if neces- honor to be your Sheriff Grant Applied for/ Amount there were 55 felony sary) while they’re away. again. 2011 has been a Awarded charges filed, 204 mis- This information will be difficult year for the Ohio Office of demeanors charges kept private and only be Sheriff ’s Office and the Criminal filed, 379 traffic cita- used by deputies during citizens of Shelby Justice Services . . . . .Applied for $ 25,000 tions issued and 39 ar- their patrol checks. Call County. We are looking Ohio Traffic Safety rest for operating a the Sheriff ’s Office at forward to making 2012 Office . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Awarded $33,078.81 vehicle under the influ- 498-1111 for additional being a safe, cooperaDrug Abuse Resistance ence of alcohol or drugs. information. tive, and prosperous Education . . . . . . . . . . .Awarded $ 19,569.75 I would like to enSidney Police Chief year for all residents Ohio Pet Fund . . . . . . .Awarded $ 2,000 courage citizens to keep Gessler and I have and visitors of the great their residences and out joined forces and re-es- Shelby County. buildings secured at all tablished a joint drug times, even when home task force to counter the Complete access is just a as a safeguard against ongoing drug problems break ins. The Sheriff ’s in Shelby County. A deaway...

Office also would like to tective from the Shersidneydailynews.com remind residents of the iff ’s Office has been Vacation Home Check assigned to the task • Deck Staining & • Interior & Exterior program. Residents can force and is working • Local News • Local Sports Refinishing Painting call the Sheriff ’s Office from an office at the • Local Opinions when they leave on va- Sidney Police Depart- • Local Classifieds • Door Wood Graining • Finished Carpentry cation and provide dis- ment. The task force has • Local Advertising P.O. Box 329 patchers with details on applied for a $250,000 • Local Features 103 E. Walnut St. how long they will be grant from the State of Botkins, Ohio 45306

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COURTS • EMERGENCY SERVICES • GOVERNMENT

Sidney Daily News, Friday, February 24, 2012

Page 19

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COURTS • EMERGENCY SERVICES • GOVERNMENT

Sidney Daily News, Friday, February 24, 2012

Page 20

JFS sees increase in services in 2011 other county JFS’s in southwest Ohio to form more collaborative systems across county borders.

The increase in unemployment has also lead to an increased workload for the Job Center. More than 2,000 visits were made to the Job Center in one year.

Even under increased demand for services the staff has continued to meet the needs of Shelby County residents looking for employment or training opportunities.

Employable people receiving cash assistance and/or food stamps are assigned to participate in some type work activity. Staff work very hard to find appropriate work sites for these individuals.

The Child Support Division has experienced the same level of workload increase. With high unemployment the requests for child support modifications also

increase. The Child Support staff are responsible to enforce more than 4,500 child support orders. Although the majority of people make regular payments, it requires a constant effort to track those who chose not to pay their court-ordered child support.

Unfortunately the Children Services Division experienced a very difficult 2011. The most unsettling development was the increase family situations involving the use of bath salts and the increase use of heroin.

Due to the use of bath salts and/or heroin, 18 children had to be

placed with relatives in order to ensure their safety.

The last half the year also showed an increase in the number adolescents experiencing problems. The increase has been especially noticeable with girls. These adolescents would typically be labeled as “out of control.” It is extremely difficult to find an approach that “works” with this population. All too often they do not respond to any services offered. Sometimes the only option left is foster placement outside their home. In a number of situations the

adolescent needs residential treatment which can cost $200 to $300 per day. The department has a good working relationship with other community agencies in order to cooperate on the provision of services.

This is especially true with the Juvenile Court judge and staff. This level of collaboration is critical in attempting to deal the issues involving these adolescents.

At the beginning of 2012 the department saw a slight decrease in some of the public assistance programs. Along with the decrease in unemployment this is

hopefully the beginning of an ongoing recovery in Shelby County. For several years the department has been developing different ways of doing business. To our regret this has sometimes meant a reduction in personal face-to-face contact with people applying for services.

While regrettable it has been necessary due to the increase of work coupled with the lost of resources. Whatever the future brings the staff of the department is committed to providing the necessary services to the residents of Shelby County.

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The economic downturn continued to significantly affect the operations of t h e Shelby County Department of Job & Fa m i l y Bey Services in 2011.

“The year continued the trend of increased demand for services while resources continued to be reduced,” said Director Tom Bey. His report continues: Since 2008 the department has dealt with: • 47 percent increase in the cash assistance caseload • 97 percent increase in the food stamp caseload • 41 percent increase in the Medicaid caseload • 42 percent increase in visits to the Job Center • 21 percent reduction in federal/state dollars to administer the department’s programs • 25 percent reduction in staff In order to attempt to deal with these situations, the department made changes in the way services are delivered. Use of telephone interviews, online applications and a customer service phone bank have all been implemented in order to attempt to meet federal/state timelines.

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Sidney Daily News, Friday, February 24, 2012

Page 21

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COURTS • EMERGENCY SERVICES • GOVERNMENT

Sidney Daily News, Friday, February 24, 2012

Page 22

DARE has successful year in schools The Drug Abuse ReEducation sistance (DARE) Program in the county schools had another successful y e a r .

T h e r e were 395 Lenhart f i f t h grade students that graduated from the DARE program this year. “The DARE Program provides students from kindergarten through high school with the skills necessary to recognize and resist pressures to experiment with drugs and to avoid gangs and violence,� said Shelby County Sheriff John Lenhart.

His report continues: Lessons emphasize self-esteem, decision making, interpersonal communications skills, and the consequences of drug abuse, conflict res-

olution and positive alternatives to substance abuse.

The Shelby County Jail averaged 73 inmates per day and served nearly 80,000 meals in 2011. There were 1,707 individuals incarcerated in the jail in 2011, 42 percent of those were by the Sheriff ’s Office and the remaining 58 percent were by the Sidney Police Department, Ohio State Highway Patrol or village police departments.

The jail staff was able to rework the inmate meal menus and reduce the annual cost for inmate meals by $36,400.

I have reinstated several jail programs that will generate revenue for the Sheriff ’s Office; these include the Inmate Work Release program, the City Inmate Work Detail, Inmate Commissary and Phone Card programs. These programs are expected to generate approximately $91,776.00.

Civil Process, Records Section busy in 2011 The Civil Process and Records Section also had a busy year handling Sheriff’s Sales, WebChecks (Background checks) and Concealed Carry Weapon Permits.

operated by the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office. The shelter sells dog tags each year; in 2011 the sales generated just over $103,000 which covers a majority of the costs to operate the Animal Shelter. In 2011, a grant was awarded to the animal shelter for $2,000 for Spay and Neuter assistance to help reSheriff Sales duce the rising pet population. Shelter officials are 2011 .......................... 217 applying for the grant again this year. The Spay 2010 ...........................346 and Neuter grant is provided by the Ohio Pet Fund 2009 ...........................291 (a 501c3 organization) which receives its funding 2008 ...........................235 through the purchase of pet friendly license plates.

More information on these license plates and the WebCheck/Background Checks pet fund can be found at http://petsohio.com.

BCI FBI Fingerprint Total Individual dog tags sold ...................................9560 Cards Prints Kennel dog tags sold ..........................................397 Taken Dogs reclaimed by owners .................................152 2010 . . . . . . .520 276 87 883 Dogs adopted out ................................................375 2011 . . . . . . .590 252 104 946 Dogs transferred to animal rescue....................136 Euthanized per owner request ............................35 Euthanized due to illness or other reasons........57 Concealed Carry Weapon Permits It is a pleasure and honor to be your sheriff New Renew Suspended Denied again. 2011 has been a difficult year for the Sher2010 CCW .....258 49 4 0 iff’s Office and the citizens of Shelby County. We are 2011 CCW .....327 7 7 2 looking forward to making 2012 being a safe, coop2010 CCW . . . Emergency 0 erative, and prosperous year for all residents and 2011 CCW . . . Emergency 1 The Shelby County Animal Shelter is now fully visitors of the great Shelby County.

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COURTS • EMERGENCY SERVICES • GOVERNMENT

Sidney Daily News, Friday, February 24, 2012

Page 23

Chief Gessler: Criminal incidents decrease in Sidney for 2011

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the attrition process and will be complete in 2012. While our overall staffing has been reduced from a full complement of 59 to a current staff of 51, we have tweaked work schedules, found alternative funding for equipment, and rely heavily on the dedication of our staff. Our department has and will continue to efficiently and effectively use our resources.

We continue to find alternatives to traditional methods for providing service.

In December 2011, after a brief interruption, the Shelby County Sheriff ’s Department and Sidney Police Department joined forces once again in the war on drugs. We continue to pool resources for other joint ventures such as the Tactical Response Team and combined training.

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Grant, this tool will be used primarily to disseminate messages pertaining to the health, safety or welfare of the county, cities and vilNew drug lages. This was a coordiidentified nated effort of all Public Beginning in the Safety organizations in early spring of 2011, the Shelby County.

Sidney Police DepartDepartment’s ment and Law Enforceorganization ment across the county The size and configudealt with new designer drugs that were ex- ration of the Sidney PoDepartment tremely dangerous. We lice continues to change. In handled over 60 different calls for service July 2010 a veteran offiranging from individu- cer (Captain Michael als that were halluci- Lundy) retired after 35 nating to some that years of dedicated servwere agitated and ag- ice. Our organizational gressive. Although De- structure was modified signer drugs are not to streamline positions new to the United and reduce an unnecesStates, the fact that peo- sary layer of superviby abolishing ple could purchase these sion chemicals legally at Lieutenants and inlocal convenience stores creasing the number of was something we were Sergeants. This change not prepared to handle. is in transition through We were dealing with two main types of synthetic drugs; “Synthetic marijuana” and “bath salts”, both of which could be “legally” sold.

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This increase is attributed to increases in Robberies, Burglaries and Larcenies.

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The city of Sidney continues to experience a decrease in the number of reported criminal incidents. “ I n 2010 we had a total of Gessler 3,850 offenses reported,” said Police Chief Kevin M. Gessler Sr. “That number has decreased by almost 5 percent to 3,701 in 2011. The Sidney Police Department made 913 arrests in 2010 and in 2011 that number went down by 8 percent to 840. The same downward trend is evident for Motor Vehicle Accidents and citations with 678 Motor Vehicle accidents in 2010 and 560 in 2011.With regard to citations there were 1098 citations issued in 2010 and only 856 in 2011.”

His report continues: In order to compare Sidney to other communities, Part I crimes (homicide, robbery, forcible rape, aggravated assault, burglary, larceny/theft, motor vehicle theft, and arson) are used to calculate what is referred to as the Crime Index. While the frequency of some of these offenses has decreased from past years, in 2011 there has been an increase of the Crime

COURTS • EMERGENCY SERVICES • GOVERNMENT

Sidney Daily News, Friday, February 24, 2012

Page 24

Fire department sees increase in activity, many personnel changes in 2011 were referred into the Juvenile Firesetter Counseling Program and over 4,750 youth and adults were served with 150 instructional programs in fire safety, fire extinguisher usage, and educational safety programs given annually in all public and parochial schools in grades K-5.

The department purchased three new LifePak 15 monitors/defibrillators which were placed in service in February and implemented new wireless mobile computers in October. In September, the Russell Road Christian Center held a fundraising softball game and presented a donation to the department which allowed us to purchase three au-

tomatic external defibrillators which were placed on apparatus that had not had them previously.

The Fire Prevention Division took possession of a new Fire Safety Training Trailer in May which was purchased with grant monies and some funding from the Local Emergency Planning Committee.

With more than 4,505 total man-hours, fire personnel continued inservice training with classes in infection control, 12-lead EKG, Pediatric Advanced Life Support (PALS), 1and other EMS courses. Fire training included hose deployment, aerial operations, incident command, engine

operations, first due engine, pump operations, hydraulic and water movement, foam application, ventilation, and truck tactics. Training was also conducted in technical rescue areas including ice rescue; river rescue, trench rescue; auto extrication; rope rescue; Rapid Intervention Team (RIT); grain bin extrication; and confined space. Personnel attended classes outside the department for EMS Instructor, Fire Instructor, Leadership, Fire Safety Inspector, Fireworks, Fire Investi-

gation, and Fire Officer I. In April, Firefighter John Skorupski, a 20year veteran of the department, was named the 2010 Firefighter of the Year.

With the retirements of Lt. Blair Granger in February, Valarie O’Connell in May, and John Skorupski in September, firefighters Alex Brahm and Jake Coverstone became the newest members of the department in May. Also in May, Cameron Haller was promoted to assistant chief and Chad

Hollinger was promoted to lieutenant.

In June, two groups of personnel received Unit Citations. Lt. Chris Niswonger, Lt. Chad Hollinger, John Duncum, Greg Francis, Ray Hess, and Michael Terrian were awarded the citation for their actions during a rescue in a flash flood swollen creek. Firefighters/paramedics Bill Frey, Mark Barga, and Jason Truesdale also received a citation for their actions when responding to a call of a two-year-old choking.

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The Sidney Department of Fire & Emerg e n c y Services experienced an increase in activity and m a n y personnel changes in 2011.

Jones “During the past year, the department responded to 3,303 calls for service, which is an 8 percent increase from the 2010 levels,” said Fire Chief Bradley S. Jones. “There were 2,778 EMS calls and 525 fire calls. Those fires resulted in only 6 civilian injuries and accounted for fire losses totaling $734,860 which is a 24 percent decrease over last year’s total fire loss.

This is the lowest annual fire loss in six years.”

His report continues: The department also spent more than 550 hours on a river rescue/recovery operation in May. The Fire Prevention Division experienced another busy year, performing 556 inspections and 246 re-inspections.

In conjunction with the Sidney-Shelby County Fire Investigation Unit, they were involved in 18 fire investigations, with 14 of those within the city of Sidney. This is a 16 percent increase in fire investigations from 2010. Only three youths

COURTS • EMERGENCY SERVICES • GOVERNMENT

Sidney Daily News, Friday, February 24, 2012

Page 25

Online access available for Common Pleas Court public records “I am pleased to report that 2011 finally saw the implementation of online access to c o u r t public records,” s a i d S h e l b y Stevenson County Common Court Pleas Judge James Stevenson.

“Most court records are generally available for public inspection and copying,” he said. “Traditionally that required a trek to the courthouse to request from the Clerk of Courts the file for review. For persons outside the county that could require considerable time and expense. I encouraged and worked with Clerk of Courts Michele Mumford over the last

couple of years to provide remote access to public records. I did so because I believe that since court records are required to be available to the public that we have a responsibility to make it as convenient as possible to view those records.”

His report continues: Now, with online access, searches can be done from the convenience of home or office.

Records may be searched by accessing either the Common Pleas Court website: http://co.shelby.oh.us/Co mmonPleasCourt/index. asp or the Clerk of Courts website: http://co.shelby.oh.us/Cle rkofCourts/index.asp and clicking on the “Records Search” tab to perform a search to inspect public court files.

After every jury trial,

the court mails a survey to jurors asking for input about jury service. One consistent comment over the last several years has been the inadequacy of the video presentation equipment for use during trial. Because of these comments, the court this year used special projects funds to upgrade the equipment in the courtroom. The court now has a built in projection screen, video cameras, and computer connections which allow the judge and attorneys to make presentations to the jury.

New and reopened criminal, civil and domestic cases filed in 2011 totaled 1,219. This is a decrease of nine cases from 2010. The civil caseload decreased by 102 cases from 2010.

Of the 481 new and reactivated civil filings, 280

of those, or 58 percent, were mortgage foreclosures. On a positive note, there was a decrease of 21 foreclosure filings for Shelby County. Criminal cases prosecuted during 2011 totaled 341, which is an increase of 70 cases from 2010.

In domestic relations, new divorces and dissolutions filed in 2011 totaled 228. A total of 115 cases were reopened, which includes support modifications, changes of custody, visitation and property issues. The domestic caseload showed an increase of 23 cases from 2010 to 2011. 473 hearings were held in DR Court, 145 people attended the Parenting Program and 66 Civil Protection Orders were filed.

In April 2011, the adult probation department held its first drug

blitz which proved successful. During the drug blitz, 119 probationers were surprise drug tested. The officers arrested 21 probationers for positive drug tests.

Six more arrests were made that day in the field during home visits for various charges.

In September 2011, the adult probation department assisted the Shelby County Sheriff ’s Office and the U.S. Marshals in sex offender compliance checks. During these compliance checks, one offender was arrested for possessing pornographic material and abusing harmful intoxicants.

The Shelby County Adult Probation Department is monitoring 310 offenders placed on community control by the Shelby County Common Pleas Court. There are 3

full-time probation officers and one part-time probation officer in the department, one of which is an intensive supervision officer funded by the CCA grant. From Jan. 1, 2011 through Dec. 14, 2011, the probation officers performed 161 home visits, handled 3,827 office visits, and 1,349 collateral contacts (telephone contacts, counsel, employment, education, etc.). The department prepared 73 judicial release reports for the Judge, filed 130 probation violations and gave 946 drug tests to probationers.

Although budget constraints continue to be challenging, the court has been able to move forward providing efficient and effective services to the citizens of Shelby County.

Juvenile Court notes increase in child neglect cases partly attributed In 2011 the to the current Shelby County economic recesJuvenile Court sion. was very busy, “The Juvenile with notable inProbation Decreases in child partment welneglect cases (up comed McKenzie 20 percent), child Lotz as its new unruly filings (up chief probation 25 percent) and child felony con- Zimmerman officer in the wake of its forvictions (up 35 percent!). These in- mer Chief Chad Gessler, creases are in line with becoming the new direcnational trends and are tor of the Clear Creek

Farms children’s home,” said Judge William R. Zimmerman. “The Probation Department members Dustin Snow, Aja Sanford and Lorie Hurey remained active with area youth programming including: counseling services through the Shelby County Counseling Center and Aspen Counseling; community service activities through the Human Society and

the Alpha Center garden; and Parent Project and Salvation Army services.

His report continues: With funding provided by the Shelby County United Way, the Juvenile Court developed the IMPACT program (Imagine Making Positive Accountable Changes Together) for children ages 8-12 who face obstacles to academic, social and community successes. Designed

as a preventative program, families accepted into the IMPACT program receive support, counseling and assistance in developing positive goals, habits and behaviors for their children. Amy Simindinger, the Juvenile Court liaison, administers the program accepting referrals from school counselors and teachers.

Court Administrator

Dawn Bailey was instrumental in obtaining a state grant in the approximate amount of $8,800 for probation officers to conduct after hour home checks on juvenile probationers, ensuring that Court imposed curfews are being followed by parents and their children. She also secured a Community Foundation Grant for a fence for the garden project.

COURTS • EMERGENCY SERVICES • GOVERNMENT

Sidney Daily News, Friday, February 24, 2012

Page 26

Municipal Court to implement new programs “As I begin this term in office, I would like to t h a n k the citizens of Shelby County for the support a n d warm reception bestowed Goettemoeller upon myself and my staff. I am looking forward to this term and hope to bring several exciting new projects to completion,” said Sidney Muncipal Court Judge Duane A. Goettemoeller.

His report continues:

The first project to be implemented will be the Mental Health Diversion Program. This is a two-year renewable grant that was awarded to the Sidney Municipal Court by the U. S. Department of Justice.

This grant is designed to provide treatment for offenders who are diagnosed with mental health issues in lieu of incarceration. The Court has been working with the Shelby County Counseling Center to develop and implement this grant in compliance with federal regulations.

We are moving to a paperless court in order

to save costs and make the court more userfriendly. Using Supreme Court guidelines and relying upon the expertise of court staff and members of the city of Sidney I.T. Department, we will use the Special Projects fund to develop a case management system.

During 2011, 204 individuals entered the License Intervention Program. Changes in the Driving Under Suspension law made changes in the entry criteria necessary; however, 163 of the 204 participants successfully completed the program and finished with a

valid driver’s license.

In 2011, $2,079,188.20 was collected in receipts. In addition, $79,156.73 was provided by offenders to the City and County through the Court’s new Community Service Program. This Program allows those who qualify to account for their fines and costs even when they do not earn sufficient income to pay what they owe. All who come before the Court are held accountable, regardless of whom they might be.

More than $22,000 was collected and distributed for restitution

to victims of crime. The Court also distributed garnishment monies in the amount of $821,333.10 to various creditors.

The Probation Department performed 138 drug tests, conducted 340 presentence investigations and had 1,223 active probationers in 2011.

The bailiffs served 1,599 papers and transported 895 prisoners. More than 21,000 jail days were served by defendants. In place of jail 179 people were placed in counseling and treatment programs such as alcohol and drug, anger management and parenting.

More than 464 days were served by defendants on the Home Arrest Program. This program is for low risk, non-violent offenders and allows them to maintain employment and support his/her family. This program also saves the community the cost of incarceration which totaled approximately $25,520.00 in 2011.

On behalf of the Court we promise prompt and courteous service and I pledge to you to the best of my ability to administer justice fairly and impartially.

Probate Court has busiest year ever “I am exThe Shelby tremely fortunate County Probate to have a highly Court had its trained and probusiest year to fessional staff in date despite the Chief Deputy current recesClerk Patricia sion.

Probate Rosengarten and Court’s responsiDeputy Clerks bilities include Carla Busse and processing estates, guardian- Zimmerman Patty Miller,” said Judge William R. ships (for minors and incompetents), adop- Zimmerman. “They were tions, marriage licenses, instrumental in hosting will contests, minor’s set- another probate worktlements, trusts and shop in 2011. Probate workshops are designed name changes.

to educate local law offices on new probate laws and legal forms.

The workshops also assist paralegals on the benefits of our updated website. Please visit us at www.shelbycoprobate.org.”

Our 2011 successes included:• We hosted a free probate workshop to assist law firms in complex probate proceedings • Our staff attended the Probate Clerks Training Seminar (in Oc-

tober) to improve knowledge on probate laws and practices • Our Chief Deputy Clerk joined the Ohio Association for Court Administration and attended a three day conference (in October) • Our Chief Deputy Clerk was accepted into the three year Court Management Program sponsored by the Judicial College of the Supreme Court of Ohio • We received com-

mendations from out of town attorneys on the effectiveness and value of our case type checklists and user-friendly website • We successfully implemented an eNotice program for attorneys practicing in our court, to provide prompt notification of hearing dates, due dates for pleadings, and, in turn, reduce the number of delinquent filings. • To date, there are 34 local and out of

town attorneys registered to receive electronic notifications in pending cases • We paid more than $67,000 in costs into the General Fund (up from $43,000 in 2010) Lastly, the Probate Court will be implementing a document scanning process in 2012. This process continues the Court’s technology updates, enhancing document security and processing efficiency.

COURTS • EMERGENCY SERVICES • GOVERNMENT

Sidney Daily News, Friday, February 24, 2012

Page 27

Bauer reports 98% conviction rate of felonies during first term of office one third of the felony case load.

Drug related crimes continue to be a major problem. Working hand and hand with Law Enforcement we indicted 120 people for drug offences. We saw an increase in heroin and methamphetamine usage. Bath salts and K2 were removed from stores as a result of strict enforcement.

Early in this first term as Prosecutor I worked hard to establish a solid team approach to felony case management which continued to work well in 2011. Regular meetings are held with Law Enforcement, Victim’s Services, and Victims to share valuable input as case decisions are made.

I want to express my gratitude to Law Enforcement and Victim’s Services for the excellent working relationship we have maintained and to the Victims for their patience and cooperation as we’ve worked hard to make sure just results are achieved.

In addition to my full-time duties handling the felony cases, I also supervise a welltrained staff of Assistant Prosecutors and Paralegals that are needed to meet the statutory duties of the Prosecutor’s Office to

other Courts and County Agencies.

Assistant Prosecutor Rachael Stir handled the Children Services Division caseload, involving prosecution of 71 cases to protect 95 abused, neglected, and dependent children and give them every chance to succeed.

Assistant Prosecutor Erik Blaine prosecuted 420 cases in Juvenile Court and continued our programs to the local schools on “Texting” and “Bullying.”

Assistant Prosecutor Jeff Beigel handled appellate matters, preliminary felony hearings and a wide variety of civil matters for our County agencies. He continued to work with County Engineer Bob Guey on sewer and water issues throughout the County.

Assistant Prosecutor Thomas Kerrigan II worked closely with County Treasurer Linda Meininger to collect $996,725.56 of past due real estate taxes using various collection methods including encouraging delinquent taxpayers to establish workable payment plans and, when necessary, foreclosures. Tom has also assumed responsibility for the Juvenile Court case prosecutions for 2012.

In an effort to better serve the county, attor-

ney Tonya Thieman will join the office in March as the assistant prosecutor assigned to handle the prosecution of cases for a number of our villages.

Staff personnel included Kathy George, Diane Frank, Theresa Grilliot, Pam Kerrigan,

Heather Roe and Dawn Jennings.

This staff has more than 117 cumulative years of training and experience in the Prosecutor’s Office that has been invaluable to me in my first term and is a true investment and asset to the community.

They work diligently to serve and I cannot say enough about the dedication they show to the Prosecutor’s Office, Law Enforcement and Victims.

It is indeed an honor to serve you as Prosecutor. We look forward to doing so 2012.

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The Shelby County Prosecutor’s Office had a busy 2011.

“Our t e a m handled numerous criminal and civil matters for t h e Bauer County and its agencies,” said Shelby County Prosecutor Ralph Bauer.

His report continues: Felony prosecutions represent the most significant and important responsibility of our office and it takes a fulltime effort to successfully handle this county’s case load, for which I am responsible.

During the first five years of my first term as prosecutor I have now personally prosecuted 1,817 felonies, with a 98 percent conviction rate, including three murder convictions — a significant undertaking, particularly for one’s first term.

In 2011, Law Enforcement presented 370 of those cases for felony prosecution, resulting in 352 indictments by the grand jury, a 30 percent increase from 2010. There was a significant jump in serious violent crimes. Robberies, burglaries, and thefts also skyrocketed to nearly

CONSTRUCTION • INDUSTRY • UTILITIES

Sidney Daily News, Friday, February 24, 2012

Page 28

Freshway Foods takes healthy choice foods to schools Freshway Foods, of Sidney, is a fresh-cut prod u c e provider to customers in the casual, fast casual and quick service restaurant inBeer dustry, as well as broad line distributors and the retail trade.

Freshway sources products fresh from the field from all over the United States, processes them to the highest standards of food safety and delivers them ready to use right out of the package.

The company experienced moderate sales growth in 2011 as a combination of increased penetration with existing accounts and continued growth of single serve convenience items overcame another challenging economic climate.

“We were very pleased to experience a nice growth in sales even though our traditional casual dining customers

battled slow growth and price pressure against other industry segments” said Devon Beer, CFO of the local produce processing and distribution company.

His report continues: With a very slow growing economy, there was a lot of price pressure on all industry players as companies scrambled to hang on to market share. Such a reality means decreasing margins on traditional product lines thus placing more focus on bringing new products to market that carry higher margins.

The year 2011 saw the rollout of new single serve items for the K through 12 school fresh fruit and vegetable programs, new retail salads aimed at the deli case area of supermarkets and a pilot project to expand sales of the new Snack Take brand products in vending machines.

Schools and many other institutional feeders are working hard at offering healthier snack alternatives, but people want such choices to be just as

convenient and cost effective as getting a candy bar or a bag of chips. The challenge is to make healthy food alternatives that line up with those objectives. Freshway is currently testing a vending machine full of Snack Take items at a large high school in Ohio. If successful, the plan is to roll out 200 such machines in 2012.

Freshway continues to use its logistics operation, Freshway Logistics, to offer consolidation services as well as the delivery of other produce products such as bulk, repacked and split case offerings. Given our coverage east of the Mississippi and the pressure our customers face to reduce costs, our ability to bring multiple products on one truck saves them money and expands our value proposition.

Freshway has positioned itself among the leaders in the industry by obtaining the prestigious Safe Quality Food (SQF) Level 2 Certification. The achievement of an “Excellent” score on the audit in

June 2011 places Freshway among the best globally. This recognition identifies Freshway as a top supplier who controls its processes and products to not only provide a safe product for the consumer, but one of optimal quality and reliability. Only 130 other companies across the nation have earned this recognition.

During 2011, Freshway celebrated the tenure of its work force by recognizing all associates with 5 years and greater of continuous employment.

All together — Freshway has over 140 associates that have achieved this milestone.

Frank Gilardi Jr. is the chief executive officer for Freshway Foods. Phil Gilardi is president.

To learn more about Freshway Foods, including career opportunities with our companies, visit our website by following the link www.freshwayfoods.com. If you are interested in working at Photo provided Freshway, we are accepting applications at our fa- PICTURED IS a vending machine containing new cility located at 601 N. Snack Takes products that has been placed in Stolle Avenue in Sidney. service in an Ohio high school.

Helman Bros. Body Shop completes 41st year in business Helman Bros. Body Shop, of Sidney, successfully completed its 41st year in collision repair in 2011.

“With a strong look to the future, we have increased our number of technicians this year. In keeping up with ad-

vancements in this industry, our technicians are provided additional training through certified classes and in house training on proper procedures and practices. This is to assure the best possible repair for our customers,” said President

Bruce Helman and Vice President Dan Knasel.

Their report continues: We believe we have assembled a unique team of professionals that truly care about every vehicle they repair.

This provides us the abil-

ity to guarantee our workmanship and provide you with a national paint warranty.

We continue to focus on the highest standard of quality repair to all makes and models of vehicles including Hybrids, Recreational Vehicles

and fiberglass repair to Boats and other Watercraft. We are equipped and trained in frame and unibody computer measuring as well as computerized tire balancing.

In 2008, Helman Bros. made the commitment to upgrade to environment

friendly water base materials. We were the first shop in this area to make this change and the third shop in the state of Ohio.

We extend an invitation for you to stop by and take a tour of our shop.

Thanks for another great year.

COURTS • EMERGENCY SERVICES • GOVERNMENT

Sidney Daily News, Friday, February 24, 2012

Page 29

Kard Group continues to thrive in the struggling economy during 2011 MINSTER — Kard Group, 000480 Osterloh Road, continues to thrive in the struggling economy during 2011.

“Heading into 2012, Kard Group is celebrating 30 years of being in business,” said Jason Osterloh, estimating/sales director. “Kard is very fortunate to have a great backlog of work for the next couple of years, with jobs continuing to bid weekly and monthly from State Transportation Departments.”

His report continues: Kard Group is certified by the American Institute of Steel Construction to have the personnel, organization, experience, capability and commitment to meet the requirements of the Steel Building Structures and Simple Steel Bridges and Major Steel Bridge and Bridge and Highway Metal Component categories with Fracture Critical Endorsement and Sophisticated Paint Coating Endorsement-Enclosed as set forth by the AISC Certification Program. AISC Certification sets the quality standard for the steel industry and is the most recognized national Certification program for the structural steel industry. Companies that are AISC Certified have been through a rigorous initial evaluation, and are subject to annual reviews.

Kard is diversified with three different

new M-85 bridge over Fort Street in Detroit, 368,890 pounds of IBeams (9 semi loads) shipped to West Virginia Department of Transportation for the Fisher Ford Bridge over the Cacapon River in Morgan County. Kard Bridge is also in the final stages of completing 842,000 pounds of Plate Girders (21 semi loads) for Pennsylvania Department of Transportation for the new State Route 224 Bridge over the Mahoning River and CSX Railroad.

Kard has several new projects for 2012 that are currently under way in the detailing stage. For Ohio Department of Transportation, we will

be fabricating 308,000 pounds of steel I-Beams (8 semi loads) part of the major I-90 Interstate project in Cleveland. We will also doing 491,000 pounds of steel I-Beams (13 semi loads) for a major bridge widening project on I-270 in Columbus, 265,000 pounds of steel I-Beams (7 semi loads) for Livingston Avenue in Franklin County, along with 839,000 pounds of steel I-Beams (21 semi loads) for a major overhaul of U.S. Route 50 through Cincinnati.

After projects are fabricated at Kard, we are responsible to truck these projects to the jobsite. We handle all aspects of the trucking using our own

trucks and trailers. We have over-length stretch loads leaving our facility all the time with some of the loads, traveling down the road at 131-feet in length.

Kard’s success through the past years, and also in this struggling economy, has been due to our employees and taking pride in the projects that we’ve fabricated here at Kard.

Throughout the year 2011, we averaged 50-55 hours per week. We expect to work at least the same or more in 2012. We are continuing to hire more employees in coming months to keep ahead of the current backlog of work we have for 2012-13.

Doris Osterloh is the president of the group.

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businesses: • Kard Welding which specializes in heavy plate weldments up to 60,000 pounds.

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• Kard Bridge which specializes in rolled beam bridges, plate girder bridges up to 135-feet long and maximum girder weighing 60,000 pounds, bridge rail, scup-

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Several key projects that Egypt Structural finished in 2011 were Ohio State University Hospital Critical Care Cancer Center in Columbus, Ohio Cobo Center Arena in Detroit, Michigan GE Power Distribution Louisville, Kentucky.

A couple key projects that Kard Bridge finished in 2011 were 1.5 million pounds of Plate Girders (38 semi loads) shipped to Michigan Department of Transportation for the

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CONSTRUCTION • INDUSTRY • UTILITIES

Sidney Daily News, Friday, February 24, 2012

Page 30

Kirk NationaLease has many unexpected opportunities in 2011

Photo provided

BILL LEISS, of Sidney, a technician at Kirk NationaLease, works on one of the trucks at the company. opening a new location in ence on foreign oil, and re- draulic drivetrains. This Mississippi, where we will duced emissions. This feature is a great tool for also maintain their equip- technology helps compa- those companies that use ment. This same cus- nies that are making ef- many different types of tomer has a location in forts to go green. We are hydraulic accessories on North Carolina, where we also looking into equip- their equipment. Most rewill merge our existing lo- ping trucks with hy- cently, we are assisting a cation into so that we can not only maintain their equipment, but also continue providing service to our existing customers.

Kirk NationaLease currently operates 28 locations in 10 different states. Once these locations start up, we will have 29 locations in 11 different states.

We are expanding into two aspects of utilizing new technology. One is the CNG (Compressed Natural Gas Engine) that has been developed, which provides lower fuel costs, reduced depend2254832

During 2011, the effects of the economy continued to bring challenges to all businesses, which brought Kirk NationaLease, of Sidney, many opportunities, says Jeff Phlipot, CEO. “We continue to see fleets that have maintained their own equipment for years, coming to us to take over their maintenance. With the experience and technology that Kirk NationaLease has to offer, we are able to put programs and procedures in place to help them maintain their fleet, so that they can concentrate on other aspects of their core business,” said Phlipot.

His report continues: We have been fortunate that through the abilities and efforts of our employees, we were able to open maintenance facilities in two new states, Wisconsin and Tennessee.

This sales lead came about thru one of our employees providing top quality breakdown service on an after-hours call, which lead to landing a new customer. At these two locations, we are maintaining equipment for the trucking company of a semi-trailer manufacturer. As we continue to settle in, our plan is to bring on additional customers so that we can expand these locations.

Additionally, we are in the process of firming up details and have secured new business with a company that will have us

customer that is in the railroad industry. This development would also be of benefit to utility companies. Fuel mileage savings and lighter weight vehicles are both improvements that they will see and capitalize on.

Another part of our business is our Used Equipment Sales Department. We have seen truck and trailer sales continued to improve, and have been able to sell a large quantity of our older equipment, which has aged and accumulated high mileage and maintenance expense. Our Compliance & Regulatory Department, which offers services for permitting, fuel tax reporting, and licensing has continued to provide these services to our existing long-term customers, as well as adding new customers that have sought assis-

tance with keeping their equipment compliant.

Our employees’ knowledge and expertise has assisted many customers in meeting the strict FMCSA (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration) guidelines.

Our Breakdown Department continues to see steadily increasing business, as we add customers that need that extra care and attention as they travel across country. Our Breakdown Department operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, to keep not only our trucks on the road, but a growing number of customers that have a need to keep their units rolling at all hours of the day and night.

We expect 2012 to be a good year, and look forward to capitalizing on the many opportunities that are presented to Kirk NationaLease.

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CONSTRUCTION • INDUSTRY • UTILITIES

Sidney Daily News, Friday, February 24, 2012

Page 31

Sollmann Electric wins five awards His report continues: Electric Sollmann also took home the STEP Diamond Award.

They were the only contractor from the Ohio Valley ABC to win the Diamond award. STEP Diamond awards are presented to contractors that meet certain criteria relating to OSHA incident rates and Bureau of Workers Compensation experience and loss ratios.

Sollmann Electric was awarded the Award of Excellence for its work on the St. Marys City School District New Memorial High School and New Middle School project in St. Marys. The 210,000-square-foot new construction project was completed in 17 months.

At the time of construction approval, this was the largest square footage to time-line ratio that the Ohio Schools Facilities Commission had ever allowed. The facility was built to serve

grades 6 through 12.

Jeramie Sollmann, Vice President of Sollmann Electric Co., was the project manager, John Sink was the project foreman and Cheryl Gallimore wrote and submitted the award winning entry.

In addition to the excellence award, Sollmann was presented with the Members Building Together Award for the St. Marys School project. This award was given to the contractor who used the most ABC members on a project, which can include lower tier subcontractors, material suppliers, and equipment suppliers.

At the end of the night, we got a big surprise. Sollmann Electric was presented with the Subcontractor Project of the Year Award for our work on the St. Marys New High School/Middle School Project. I was so proud that our project was picked out of all of the other projects for such a prestigious award.

Major projects completed in 2011 include: Elida New High School, Elida; Miami East New High School, Casstown; Botkins Waste Water Treatment Plant Improvements, Botkins; Russia Local Schools Additions/Renovations K-12, Russia; Westminster Allen County Waste Water Treatment Photo provided Plant Sewer ImproveSOLLMANN ELECTRIC President Dennis Sollmann ments, Lima; Vantage and Cheryl Gallimore hold some of the awards the Career Center Tempocompany received from the Ohio Valley Chapter rary Swing Space, Van Wert; WPAFB RenovaAssociated Builders and Contracts Inc.

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Sollmann Electric Co., of Sidney, recently attended the Ohio Valley Chapter Associated Builders and Contractors Inc. (ABC) Excellence in Construction Awards Gala where they were presented with five awards. “We were pleasantly surprised when are name continued to be called to except the awards”, comments Dennis Sollmann president of Sollmann Electric Co. The Ohio Valley Chapter ABC includes contractors from 35 counties residing from the Northern Kentucky area to the Lima area, and parts of Southeast Indiana.

“Sollmann Electric was presented with the Safety Training and Evaluation Process (STEP) II Award, which is given to STEP Platinum or Diamond winners that have an outstanding safety record with minimal accidents,” said President Dennis Sollmann.

CONSTRUCTION • INDUSTRY • UTILITIES

Sidney Daily News, Friday, February 24, 2012

Page 32

NKP sees continued growth across North America in 2011 Department and multiple associate awards, Bronze level Healthy Ohioans Wellness recognition, continued growth across North America, and successful demonstration of the 2011 “Maishin, Plan with Passion, Do with Dedication, Check with Courage, and Act with Accuracy” were highlights in 2011 were achieved by NK Parts.

“NKP, which was incorporated in 1987 and began operations in 1988 in Sidney, marked the first overseas venture for Nippon Konpo, a well established company in Japan,” said Julie Spraggs, NK Parts human resource staff member. “Since coming to Sidney, NKP has invested more than $50 million in 1.2 million square feet in the state of Ohio.”

Her report continues: Over the last year NKP has continued to adapt and make necessary changes to ensure the ability to be viable in difficult economic times.

NKP operations include warehousing, packaging, just-in-time delivery, assembly, and aftermarket remanufacturing, and quality. NKP also has a test track on site for quality analysis at their main location in Sidney.

Additionally, NKP operates a location in East Liberty.

NKP’s remanufacturing group (HTS) has

once again received an “Outstanding” rating from American Honda for remanufactured parts. This group has been in operation for 10 years and has been awarded this recognition for the past six years.

A true reflection of the awards received is highlighted by the collective effort of several individuals with the company. Several of those associates were recognized for various accomplishments ranging from perfect attendance to service awards.

Leading the way once again is Roger Kise who has now achieved an amazing 21 years of perfect attendance. Roger is a forklift driver in the logistics department and has achieved perfect attendance every year since being hired in 1990.

Several other associates continue to achieve perfect attendance records. These associates include Stephen York who has achieved perfect attendance marks for 15 years.

Michael Preece and Darby Watkins have 14 years, Bill Williams and David Powers have earned 13 years, and Dottie Hentrich and Debra Hall have 12 years.

The 20-year service club at NKP continues to grow. This past year Jill Maxwell reached 20-

years of service at NKP. David Bingham, Clay Crain, Mike Sullenberger, Jeri Ike, Jonathan Richmond, Stephen York, Chris Simindinger and Bruce Schmiesing were all welcomed into the 15-year service club. Several other service awards were handed out to associates this past year.

NKP, which operates a state-of-the art fitness and recreation center (ADC) for associates and their families, remains an active member in the Healthy Ohio Business Council.

The Healthy Ohio Business Council is driven to reduce health care costs for Ohio corporations and to improve the health status of all Ohio residents.

NKP has taken a proactive approach to worksite wellness since

opening their Associate Development Center in 2005.

In 2011, NKP has earned the Bronze Healthy Ohioans Worksite Wellness Award.

The Healthy Ohioans Worksite Wellness Award is given to Ohio employers that demonstrate a commitment to employee health by incorporating comprehensive worksite health promotion and wellness programs.

The ADC currently has more than 1100 members (associates and their family members) and features a training staff focused on individual needs.

NKP once again held a Wellness Fair in the NKP gymnasium where over 400 associates and dependents attended the October event. Participants benefited from

the opportunity to discuss their health, their blood screen results, or review other items related to wellness. Many took advantage of the complimentary health food choices available.

The workplace is an ideal setting to promote healthier lifestyles.

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grams create a culture that fosters motivation and provides a longterm strategy of health and well being for associates.

NKP has expanded its operations throughout North America in 2011. NKP opened facilities in California and Mexico.

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CONSTRUCTION • INDUSTRY • UTILITIES

Sidney Daily News, Friday, February 24, 2012

Page 33

New Knoxville Supply celebrates 80th anniversary NEW KNOXVILLE — The year 2011 marked New Knoxville Supply’s 80th year of business.

“We are a full service plumbing, electrical, and HVAC contractor for residential, commercial and industrial applications.

Currently the company employs 13 personnel,” said Rodney Kuck, part owner of the company.

His report continues: From the beginning, New Knoxville Supply has adapted to technology changes. In 1931, we sold and installed Delco gas lighting. In 2008, we became an authorized Water Furnace geothermal dealer. Water Furnace is an industry leader in geothermal technology. We can install the loop that best fits your landscape needs, horizontal, horizontal bore, vertical or open loop. We have technicians that have completed the factory authorized Service/Installation Technician Training School to understand how to maximize the efficiency of your geothermal equipment. Along with Water Furnace, we are an authorized Rheem HVAC dealer. O u r technicians have also completed service/installation training for Rheem equipment. Both WaterFurnace and Rheem have equipment that qualifies for the Federal Tax Credit. We also service and install RobertsGordon radiant tube heaters, including the Vantage heaters. If force air is not an option, we install and service Weil

find air filters, rubber boots, gloves, sheet metal fittings sump and sewage pumps and water filters Contact New Knoxville Supply @ 419753-2444 or visit us on the web at www.newknoxvillesupply.com to see how we can help you “Go Green”

in the future. You can stop in and see our large selection of items at 205 Industrial Park Drive, New Knoxville. Business hours are MondayFriday 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday 8 a.m. to noon. We offer service within a 35 mile radius.

Client Centered The client is the driving force behind what we do.

Photo provided

THIS IS what the original New Knoxville Supply company looked like in 1931.

The inset photo is what the building looks like today.

McLain boilers.

We also offer a full line of plumbing fixture options to best suit your decor including Sterling, Aker, and Diamond tub and shower enclosures.

Fixture brands including Delta, Kohler, Moen and Mansfield are on display in the showroom. For the customer who has water conditioning issues, we can service or install a well pump, water softener, iron filtration system or reverse osmosis water system. We are also an authorized Rheem water heater dealer. We can install and / or service residential and commercial water heaters.

Recently we became a whole house generator dealer for Briggs and Stratton. Our certified electricians can size and install the correct generator for your home. For your business the electrical department can install energy efficient

fluorescent lighting.

Our retail showroom includes many items for the do it yourself or professional. A full line of plumbing, heating, and electrical fittings, sup-

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CONSTRUCTION • INDUSTRY • UTILITIES

Sidney Daily News, Friday, February 24, 2012

Page 34

Sidney Body CARSTAR expands Sidney Body CARSTAR is a state-ofthe-art repair facility located at 175 Stolle Ave. in Sidney. “ W e specialize in automotive Martin body repair. We were formerly known as Sidney Body Shop and located on South Street in Sidney,” said Tom Martin,owner of Sidney Body CARSTAR. “We have been a part of the CARSTAR franchise now for over eight years and by being a part of CARSTAR we can provide our customers with a five-year

nationwide warranty,” His report continues: CARSTAR Auto Body Repair Experts is the largest group of branded collision repair facilities in North America with more than 400 locally owned and operated locations in 31 states and 10 Canadian provinces.

At Sidney Body CARSTAR we provide our customers with a limited lifetime warranty on all of the repairs we perform; on top of the nationwide warranty.

In January 2011 we began a 5,200-squarefoot addition, which now makes our building 14,000-square-feet. We began operation in the addition in May. The body repair area is now in the addition and the

prep, refinish, and detail areas are in the original building. We also added an Enterprise Rent-ACar location in our additional office space.

At our state-of-the-art facility we have three frame machines, a down draft spray booth, a paint prep station and an estimating bay for inclement weather. At Sidney Body CARSTAR we also utilize a waterborne paint system.

Many car makers recommend the use of waterborne basecoat for refinishing, plus it is much better for the environment.

Our customer satisfaction rating (CSI) was 98.5 percent for 2011.

We believe that we maintain a high ranking due to our on-going

training. All of our office personnel maintain their training through CARSTAR-U, an online training program. Our estimators are also ICAR Platinum Individuals. Our technicians are ASE certified and we are the only shop in Shelby County that is I-Car GOLD certified. I also attends quarterly meetings at various CARSTAR stores throughout the United States to gain new and innovative ideas to implement at Sidney Body CARSTAR. All of these things combined help improve and distinguish us from our competitors.

On June 11, 2011, we hosted a “Soaps It Up” Car Wash and all proceeds benefited the Make-A-Wish Founda-

LaserFab sees sales increase The year 2011 was one of LaserFab’s best years in sales and volume, up more than 50 percent after getting through two tough years during which sales were down 40 percent.

“Beginning January 2011, we experienced a major increase in sales which continued every month throughout 2011,” said Jamie Ellis, president. “As we kick off 2012, we are looking forward to another good year. We feel it has been tough to forecast sales during the last few years, making it hard to plan new expansion and capital equipment purchases.”

His report continues: However, we are continuing to expand our capabilities and have recently added automated punch-

ing to our manufacturing process.

This will enhance our laser process when volumes exceed the cost effective setups of processing and parts and materials which are more slowly processed with lasers. We are also planning to take advantage of new laser technology as it becomes available, and are looking forward to adding fiber optic robotic laser cutting in 2012.

We are sub-contractors in the metal manufacturing sector, selling to many different industries.

LaserFab Technologies currently fabricates products for the heavy truck and bus industry, as well as lift truck and material handling companies. We also build components for the recreational trans-

portation industry, armored vehicles, and laser cut components for the aerospace industry. In addition, we provide a wide variety of parts for companies involved in: paper folding and cutting, compressed air, food related, medical, and specialty equipment industries.

We believe that success is built through partnerships between customers and suppliers. We don’t just supply our customers with components; we work with them to supply a quality product for the end user.

The company is located at 1528 Fair Road and was founded in 2003. The company’s phone number is 493-0800 and website is www.laserfabtech.com.

tion and Shelby County Relay for Life.

CARSTAR also beat their own record set in 2009 for the “World’s Largest Car Wash - Multiple Venues” by washing 4,918 cars in eight hours.

We began providing a free service to our customers a while back where they can view pictures of their car online throughout the repair process. We take photos of the cars daily and send them email updates when there are new pictures added. We have had a lot of positive feedback from it and will

be continuing the program indefinitely.

If you have any questions about our store or would like a tour of our state-of-the-art facility, please stop in at 175 Stolle Ave. (Behind CJ Highmark’s). You can also visit our website at w w w. s i d n e y b o d y carstar.com. At Sidney Body CARSTAR we strive to make your repair process as easy as possible for you. From your rental car, to working with the insurance company, we are here for you.

Relax, We’ll take it from here!

Primecare Physicians of West Central Ohio, Inc.

Board Certified Family Practice

Stephen Justice, MD, Eric VanFossen, PA-C, Kenneth Bosslet, DO

1205 Fairington Dr., Sidney

(937)492-8431

2255298

CONSTRUCTION • INDUSTRY • UTILITIES

Sidney Daily News, Friday, February 24, 2012

Page 35

Shaffer sees improvement in 2011 Equipment purchases over the past several years and the addition of an in-house powder coat system allowed Shaffer Metal Fab to change their production practices to accommodate new and additional requirements in 2011.

Chief Executive Officer Mike Shaffer has submitted the following report: Large volume, short lead time projects were an area that was available in the 2011 market.

The ability to provide large quantities of parts requiring several operations in a very short period of time offered both a challenge and an opportunity. The equipment at Shaffer allows complete fabrication services including laser cutting, CNC Punching, welding, surface finish-

quirements, the team at Shaffer was able to adjust to meet the challenges of the new projects. The capability of supplying large volume requirements coupled with experienced and dedicated personnel being willing to meet the lead time challenge allowed Shaffer to see a much improving and busy second half and final quarter in 2011.

Being versatile and having the equipment to Photo provided meet quickly changing requirements THIS IS a photo of steel parts being powder coated market in the enviornmental clean room that is part of the and opportunities placed automated powder coat system at Shaffer Metal Shaffer in a position to answer new customer Fab in Sidney. concerns. The combined ing, CNC sawing, and successfully by the perthe ability to powder coat sonnel at Shaffer. Taking metal at one facility of- on the task of the extra fered Shaffer the capa- effort required to operate bility to take advantage an always changing of the opportunity. The schedule needed to meet 2011 challenge was met the short lead time re-

efforts to eliminate handling and establish Shaffer as a “one stop shop” paid off by reducing costs in the fabrication and powder coating processes.

This cost reduction allowed Shaffer to pass along savings to the customer and increase their market share.

After extensive review of the past three years, it was determined that to increase business and supply a more diversified market, Shaffer would need to expand their market area into other states.

Shaffer is proud to say that they now service a growing customer list in Indiana, Michigan, and

Kentucky. This expansion in geographical marketing has allowed Shaffer to increase their customer base, diversify their product and service offering and enter into areas of new product design.

Shaffer will continue to seek additional opportunities in the areas requiring their improved capabilities and operations in 2012. The equipment and personnel at Shaffer stand ready to continue to meet new challenges and adjust to the needs of an ever changing market. Shaffer looks forward to continued growth in 2011 with an optimistic view.

Shelby County’s

Premier Collision Repair Center

Sidney Manufacturing has positive year The year 2011 has been another successful and positive one for Sidney Manufacturing Co. “Unlike previous years we started out busy and ended the year the same way,” said Executive Vice President Paul Borders.

His report continues: The addition of single automatic push button control increased the demand for special purpose personnel elevators.

Units were provided for installations in soybean

extraction plants that required the electrical enclosures to be Explosion Proof Class I Division I which are locations in atmospheres for gases and vapors.

Our support towers also had an increase demand which makes the installation for the customer more economically and convenient.

Sales for the Sidney Side Wall Return Drag Conveyor remained strong throughout the See SIDNEY/Page 37

At Sidney Body Carstar, we’re proud to set Industry Standards and Exceed Customer Expectations

CARE...for our customers’ concerns COMMITMENT...for our customers’ complete satisfaction SERVICE...for our customer after the repairs are complete SDN Photo/NAME

THIS IS AN Explosion Proof Class I Division I single automatic push button operation car control used for the Sidney Special Purpose Personnel Elevator.

RELAX, we’ll take it from here!

SIDNEY BODY CARSTAR Auto Body RepairService Experts Quality Collision

®

www.sidneybodycarstar.com

2254781

175 S. Stolle Avenue, Sidney (937) 492-4783

CONSTRUCTION • INDUSTRY • UTILITIES

Sidney Daily News, Friday, February 24, 2012

Page 36

Sidney Electric Co. has busy, successful year “This year was a successful, yet challenging year for our company” said Bill McClain, director of business development and marketing.

His report continues: Sidney Electric Co. had an extremely busy year, as crews worked on many projects in both Ohio and Indiana.

We were fortunate to see a large increase in business activity in the automotive marketplace. Other projects were completed for commercial, food processing, healthcare, refinery and chemical plants, as well as wastewater treatment facilities.

“We are extremely proud of our employees and their accomplishments this year. Our dedicated staff is one of the core reasons for our continued success. We had a number of employees receive service awards and I would like to congratulate the following employees: Kevin Jutte 25-years, Tim King and Randy Ransbottom 20-years, Jacob Brendle 15-years, Robert Hardings 10years, and Brad Baxter, Jeremy Bemis, Vince

Scheid, Kevin Scheid, Travis Bodine, David Habegger, Robert Greve and Joel Baker, 5-years reports company president, John Frantz.

In a related service award note, John Frantz was nominated and inducted as a Fellow into the Academy of Electrical Contracting at the NECA national convention in October 2011. The Academy of Electrical Contracting honors outstanding leaders in the electrical contracting field. Mr. Frantz is the third company president from Sidney Electric Co. to earn the award, as he joins both Herb Schlater and John Carlisle in receiving this prestigious award.

As a regional leader in providing electrical contracting services, Sidney Electric Company provides complete engineering and design build services for all types of construction projects, electrical systems, high voltage services, power distribution needs, and maintenance services, as well as Infrared Thermography for a diverse customer base in the West Central Ohio and East

Providing you better service is our goal. Call 498-5939 or 1-800-688-4820, ext. 5939

Central region of Indiana.

Their firm is a member of the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA) and their electricians are trained Journeymen in Local 32 (Lima) and Local 855 (Muncie) of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW).

Some selected project managers and job superintendents are certified with the American Society for Healthcare Engineering (ASHE).

Our teledata technicians are certified installers and are members of BICSI, a

tele-communications organization. They are a registered electrical contractor with the Central Contractor Registration for the U. S. Federal Government.

“I would like to thank all Sidney Electric Company employees for all their contributions this past year, and we look forward to helping our customers in the coming new year and beyond with their electrical and data networking needs,” said John Frantz Sidney Electric Co. has three locations to serve its customers.

Show Your Card & Save

They have offices located in Sidney, and Lima. Also, they have an office located in Muncie, Ind. They provide 24-hour a day, 7day-a-week service for all your electrical and communication system needs.

Through a subsidiary company, ITSGroup (Integrated Technology Systems Group), they offer a variety of telecommunica-

tion services, fiber optic, network installations, digital key and PBX systems, voice mail, voice over IP, business telephone systems, residential alarm and surveillance systems.

To learn more about Sidney Electric Co. and ITSystems Group, visit our websites at www.sidneyelectric.com and www.itssystemsgroup.net.

Jeffrey J. Beigel J.D., M.B.A. Attorney at Law

®

11

ph. (937) 492-6125 cell (937) 4489-8673 89-8673

It pays to belong!

jbeigel-kbsg@woh.rr.com jbeigel-kbsg@ @woh.rrr.com

920 Wapakoneta Ave.

Kerrigan, Ker rigan, Boller Boller,, Beigel & Schneble Co., LP LPA PA 126 Nor th Main St. .O. Box 987 North St.,, PP.O. Sidney Sidney,y, Ohioo 45365

492-3167 2255621

2255631

CONSTRUCTION • INDUSTRY • UTILITIES

Sidney Daily News, Friday, February 24, 2012

Page 37

Sidney Door has encouraging year

SIDNEY year with shipments to the following industries: pet foods, edible beans, seed, grain and feed, flour, fruits and vegetables and expansion for Bells Brewery in Michigan. Shipments were made to Canada, Argentina and nationwide.

The year 2011 was our 45th year.

SMC believes the best assets the company have are the quality of employees and the quality products manufactured.

The company is located at 405 N. Main

ONLINE

News, Weather, Sports Your Community www.SidneyDailyNews.com

Greve. “This credit was a significant factor for the homeowner to take advantage of, while enhancing the look of their home with the new energy efficient material that SD&W Inc. supplies and installs.”

His report is as follows: SD&W was proudly named “The Best Door and Window” company in and around Shelby County by the Sidney Daily News Readers Choice awards magazine for the second straight year, and this was further enhanced by the A+Rating from the Better Business Bureau. Reported Michael Greve, President.

From Page 35 Ave. Steve Baker is the company president.

The phone number is 492-4154 and its website is www.sidneymanufacturing.com.

The company emplloyes 25 people.

The year 2011 in residential installations and service accounts, along with commercial installations and service accounts, all showed improvement, while the economy was and continues to be a major concern for businesses such as ours. We were blessed to have our returning clientele, as well as many new customers put their hard earned money and trust in us at SD&W. We always strive to make our customers feel relaxed and very happy when their projects are completed.

With more than 50 years of combined experi-

ence, SD&W. provides the homeowner, contractor, industrial, and commercial region with quality workmanship and installations, while offering 24hour emergency service for those unexpected crisis.

Cindy Shaffer manages and oversees the office and inside sales along with the accounting department.

Sidney Door and Window Inc. is very pleased to have obtained the services of Dave Sheperd to oversee our sales department as our new sales manager. Dave comes to us bringing a wealth of knowledge with more

than 35 years of experience in all aspects of home improvement projects.

Matt Vanhoose oversees the duties of the Commercial/Residential departments as well as the door department manager.

A member of the Sidney-Shelby County Chamber of Commerce, American Builders Association, and the Better Business Bureau (with an A+ Rating), SD&W. is a leader in the industry serving the SidneyShelby County and surrounding county areas.

SD&W. sells, installs, and services all types of com-

mercial / residential roofing, overhead commercial garage doors, operators, entrance doors, vinyl siding, windows, garages, patio doors, interior doors, patio enclosures, car ports, and cloth/aluminum awnings.

The entire staff of Sidney Door and Window Inc. is looking to 2012 with cautious optimism.

Our pledge is, and has always been “To continue serving our clients and friends with the professional and quality service at affordable prices that they deserve and have come to expect from Sidney Door and Window Inc.”

BARKER

INSURANCE AGENCY, INC. Ohio Mutual Insurance Group, More than just a promise.

2255844

Sidney Door and Window Inc. experienced an encouraging year for the residential/home improvement sectors in “2011,” with roofing, paGreve tios, patio enclosures, replacement windows and garage doors leading the way in retail sales.

“These sales were facilitated by the tax credits that were offered by the government for 2011,” said President Mike

Amy Cobb

Denny Barker 2255616

OUR STAFF HAS A HEART 987 E Ash St, Suite 197 Piqua, OH 45356 PH: (937) 615-0837 FX: (937) 778-2250 www.heartsoncall.com tyoung@heartsoncall.com RN's, LPN's, STNA's

Deron Barker

Dan Barker

937-492-1857 1-800-535-5410 9040 Co. Rd. 25-A North, Sidney • fax 937-492-1465 • email: office@barkerinsurance.biz

2254820

CONSTRUCTION • INDUSTRY • UTILITIES

Sidney Daily News, Friday, February 24, 2012

Page 38

Sidney Tool & Die experiences steady, consistent business year Inc. provides precision parts for the aerospace industry, tooling and assembly equipment for the residential entrance door and garage door industry, designing and building specialty machines for rubber and plastic product manufacturers, and machining specialty parts for a variety of industries.

The company utilizes approximately 123,000 square feet of floor space within four buildings located on Campbell Road.

The company continues its requirement to maintain rigorous quality standards by demonstrating compliance with the ISO9001:2008, and AS9100 industry standards certification registrar audits.

We were pleased to be deemed compliant as these certifications denote our ongoing commitment to execute and deliver continuous improvement within our organization. The constant pursuits for becoming a better employee and a better organization are the types of attributes needed, as we plan for future opportunities.

The planning for capital improvements pro-

vided for several opportunities to acquire additional new equipment in 2011. They included: (2)Toshiba CNC horizontal boring mills with full 4th axis, and a 48inch by 60-inch envelope size, a Toshiba Vertical Turning Center with 60-inch swing, an Okuma CNC OD Grinder with 12-inch by 48-inch capacity, a Hurco Vertical Machining Center, an Okuma LB3000 Turning Center with sub spindle and live tooling, and a Programmable Milling Center for Tool Room machining. These purchases represent a broad range of machining capabilities from very large applications to small precision parts.

These machines will allow for further efficiencies needed, (consistency and speed) gained through technological innovation of the equipment …. reducing costs while retaining consistent quality.

Those are essential requirements to succeed in this business, and these machines, systems, and our personnel will help us achieve that objective.

We are very proud of our employees. They are committed, flexible

Providing you better service is our goal. Call 498-5939 or 1-800-688-4820, ext. 5939

and responsive in meeting the specific need of our customers. In partnership with our em-

ployees, we will continue to evaluate all aspects of our business which improves upon

our mission to deliver quality products and services to our customers.

2040 Commerce Drive Sidney, Ohio 45365

937-492-8662 Fax 937-492-1619 Check out our NEW website

www.aandbmachine.com www.aandbmachine.com Now taking orders online!

Cost Effective Production of Quality Manufactured Components WE OFFER: - 24,000 square feet of manufacturing space - A full-service quality inspection department - Welding capabilities / Grinding capabilities - Design services - manufacturing solutions for automation - Dimension data collection based on customer requirements - Reverse engineering capabilities - Quick setup for short and long production runs - Post-process finishing OUR GUARANTEE: - Quick Turnaround - Quality Parts - Competitive Pricing

2255044

Sidney Tool & Die Inc., located at 1950 Campb e l l Road, exp e r i enced a steady and consistent business year in all secWolf tors of its customer base.

“The request for our machining capabilities and machining diversity saw excellent activity throughout 2011,” said Company President, Tony Wolf. “Consumer, and corporate confidence seems to have gained some vitality, and we are hopeful this momentum is sustained as we move forward into 2012. Our customer base is seeing some consolidation, but generally they have persevered, and are meeting the challenges through this economic business cycle.”

His report continues: Our core values in taking pride in personal performance, producing quality products in an on time environment, and maintaining competitive pricinghave provided opportunities with our customers that allowed us to sustain a consistent work force and schedule throughout the year.

Sidney Tool & Die

CONSTRUCTION • INDUSTRY • UTILITIES

Sidney Daily News, Friday, February 24, 2012

Page 39

WTT has record year To Grow Your FORT LORAMIE — Wayne Trail Technologies (WTT) in Fort Loramie reports a record year for new bookings and shipments in 2011, with all Lewinski indications that 2012 will be as good or better, as the company prepares for further growth. Wayne Trail Technologies is a world class supplier of automated and fully integrated manufacturing systems for metal forming, metal joining and metal fabricating industries.

Vice President of Marketing Bob Lewinski has submitted the following report: WTT enjoyed good success across all market technology segments in 2011, with particularly strong activity in the Robotics/Welding/Fixturing, Laser Systems and Press Automation areas. A significant amount of this new business is attributed to the resurgence of activity in the automotive sector as the economy recovers and new model launches are planned and executed, as well as growth in appliance and HVAC markets — due largely to a series of new, higher efficiency products being brought market, and the implementation of new or modernized domestic production facilities at several key customer sites.

In late 2011, WTT entered into a large contract with a major world-class supplier of appliances, to supply a fully automated,

Business . . .

Call us today!

Photo provided

THE WAYNE Trail Technologies facility is located in Fort Loramie. extremely flexible, state- these automated systems of-the-art integrated sys- include seat frame compobody-in-white tem that will be used to nents, produce a wide range of structural members, and high-end gas and electric underbody frame rails for ovens at a new purpose a variety of new vehicles.

WTT’s ‘build to print’ built facility in Memphis, TN. The WTT system group, which involves maarray will include servo chining and tool-build transfer equipment, services primarily related s t a m p i n g / f o r m i n g to the aerospace/gas turpresses, tool storage and bine engine market, conretrieval, robotic material tinues to operate at a handling, robotic laser record pace, as new, high welding and cutting, laser efficiency gas turbine demarking, flange/curl sys- signs are launched in vatems and automated in- riety of new or upgraded spection and QA/QC aircraft, ground or marine capability. The supply of power applications.

To handle the increase laser welded and laser cut pre-production prototypes in demand and growth in is an integral part of this all segments of the busicontract, and accordingly, ness, WTT has hired WTT has implemented a more than 50 new emdedicated prototyping cell ployees over the past for this activity that runs eighteen months, in posithru the completion of the tions ranging from maand project. The automated chining systems will be in test at manufacturing, to engiWTT in the latter part of neering, tech support, 2012, and represents service and sales. WTT technology contribution has also been recognized from nearly every market with several industry and segment of the business. economic development The capability and flexi- awards in the past year, bility contained within including the Rhinestahl this solution has high po- CTS 2011 Supplier Exceltential for replication at lence Award, Motoman’s other customer facilities Highest Unit Sales Integrator Award 2011, and a around the world.

Q1 of 2012 has shown a State of Ohio Edison Censtrong uptick in demand ter Letter of Recognition for outstanding for WTT tube bending and — fabricating systems, as growth, manufacturing well as post-hydroform leadership and economic automation equipment impact — relating to the that is used in the manu- creation of new jobs facture of tubular compo- within the state of Ohio.

WTT eagerly looks fornents for automotive applications. The typical ward to continued growth parts that come off of in 2012 and beyond.

Becky Smith 498-5980 Advertising Manager

Beth Workman 498-5951 Retail Display

Carolyn Warner 498-5920 Real Estate Sales

Kori Weiss 498-5910 Retail Display

Louanne Hines 498-5913 Retail Display

Shelley Black 498-5918 Retail Display

Jozy King 498-5914 Retail Display

2253052

COURTS • EMERGENCY SERVICES • GOVERNMENT

Sidney Daily News, Friday, February 24, 2012

Page 40

Accessible Healthcare delivered when it matters most.

“Dr. Fred Haussman works closely with local EMS teams.”

•

Over 75 years of emergency medical experience and over 30,000 visits annually

• Partnership with all Shelby County EMS teams

EMERGENCY SERVICES

• In case of emergency, call 911 immediately • Service hours are 24/7

C

2255325

915 W. Michigan St. Sidney, Ohio 45365

www.wilsonhospital.com