CHILLICOTHE - A full house packed the Chillicothe Country Club and greeted the four speakers for the 2025 State of the Community event on Friday, March 14.

Chillicothe Mayor Luke Feeney, Frankfort Mayor Patti Cavender, Ross County Commissioner Jack Everson, and ODOT District 9 Project Manager Tom Barnitz previewed items of interest for the community. The event was presented by Kingston National Bank.

***CLICK HERE TO SEE BARNITZ'S PRESENTATION***

Barnitz's presentation focused on the Bridge Street Safety Improvement Project, which will begin this spring and last about two and a half years. While the timeline is long, the gains in pedestrian safety, improved traffic flow for drivers, and an accelerated timeline for changes in the business district will benefit the community in the long run.

***READ THE GAZETTE RECAP***

Feeney's address focused on the "growing pains" of projects such as Bridge Street, which also serve as a harbinger of growth and success. Similarly, the proposed changes to Yoctangee Park and the surrounding area feel overwhelming to some. Planning and listening are the keys to overcoming those short-term pains. 

***READ KEVIN COLEMAN'S RECAP***

Everson's talk focused on all aspects of county government, including those of new officeholders. He addressed the county's efforts to create a comprehensive plan for the next 20 years. Land use, economic development, housing, transportation, environmental, and farmland preservation are essential components of that plan. 

Cavender's passion for the village of Frankfort was evident in her energy, and the substance of her discussion of the Warrior Wellness Center, along with other improvements coming to the village's downtown, was a great beginning to the event. 

The State of the Community event is one of four keynote events from the Chamber's Advocacy Committee, which serves to advise the Board of Directors on issues of local importance to the Chamber's membership.