-

·
Survivor advocacy org’s expansion has raised hopes — and eyebrows
Public funding fueled the rapid expansion of the Survivor Advocacy Outreach Program, but some felt new programs distracted SAOP from its core mission.
-

·
Local governments maintain status quo for state tax revenue
Athens County’s formula for distributing its share of the Local Government Fund will remain unchanged for the next five years.
-

·
Brief investigation finds EMS employee did not violate Hatch Act
The employee was suspended after criticizing county EMS work conditions at a press conference held by a former county commissioner candidate.
-

·
County employee under investigation after press conference appearance
An Athens County EMS employee — now on leave — spoke about working conditions at an Oct. 24 press conference organized by independent county commissioner candidate Jon Rose.
-

·
Rumpke undertaking expansion of Nelsonville landfill
The 4-acre expansion — which is visible from U.S. 33 and close to Scenic Lane — is part of a major upgrade of the facility.
-

·
HAPCAP unveils new project to turn Sunset Motel into emergency housing
HAPCAP will use a $2 million state grant to create 20 temporary, private living spaces for Athens County residents experiencing homelessness.
-

·
Drought relief funds pose challenge for local farmers
USDA drought relief funds have helped some Athens County farmers but have left some specialty growers behind
-

·
Jackie O’s is selling its farm
Barrel Ridge Farm has been a key part of the Athens business for many years.
-

·
Burrowing pest threatens area pawpaws
An infestation of ambrosia beetles has killed half the pawpaw trees at Integration Acres’ orchard, taking advantage of several years of environmental stress.
-

·
Local organization plans class, walk to support mental health services (Updated)
NAMI Athens has added a fundraising component to its annual walk to offer more programs like its eight-week class for people with mental illness and their families.
