Mark J. Eicher

This 2025 Annual Report details the establishment and activities of the Office of Blight Prevention within Muskingum County. The office partners with the Muskingum County Land Reutilization Corporation and Muskingum County Land Concern to address blighted residential and commercial properties through cleanup and remediation efforts. The report outlines the office's commitment to cooperation with property owners and local governments, its role in achieving goals within the County's Comprehensive Plan, and presents findings from a county-wide inventory of blighted properties, along with a summary of major projects and associated expenses undertaken in 2025.

The meeting addressed several key areas including approval of payment of bills, an agreement with Northstar Engineering for the Licking View Sanitary Sewer Project, and CORSA chargebacks to various funds. The board also approved the purchase of plastic culvert pipe from Carter Lumber, supplemental appropriations for the Rambo Memorial Health Center, and an advance of funds to the Muskingum County Community Development. Bids were awarded for Health Department HVAC improvements, and supplemental appropriations and fund transfers were approved for the Clerk of Courts. An executive session was held to discuss a real estate matter. Updates were provided on the Avondale project, and discussions were held regarding the rebidding of the Courthouse Fire Alarm System, the auction for 333 Putnam, and the Fair Board debt. The board also discussed the annual CORSA renewal, employment of a Building Inspector, ODOT IR70 virtual update, a virtual meeting regarding Yodel Community Connections, and an exit interview with Paul Reed. An executive session was held to discuss a personnel matter.

The strategic plan focuses on mitigating the effects of hazards through a well-organized public education and awareness effort, preparedness activities, and mitigation actions. It identifies resources, information, and strategies for risk reduction, and acts as a tool to measure the success of mitigation implementation on a continual basis. The plan enhances the community's ability to communicate and mitigate natural, technological, and manmade hazard risk by protecting critical facilities, reducing liability exposure, and minimizing overall impacts and disruptions from all hazards.

The meeting included discussions and resolutions regarding various financial and infrastructure matters. Resolutions were passed to authorize the signing of payment applications for the Licking View Sanitary Sewer Project and change orders for the Granger Hill Water Storage Tank. The board also accepted load limit changes for several bridges and approved the payment of invoices incurred in 2024 with 2025 funds. Additionally, they acknowledged receipt of notice regarding the duty to file zoning resolutions and amendments. The Commissioners reviewed the 2024 December Financials from the County Auditor, discussed security enhancements during tax season, and received updates on courthouse window replacements and jail-related matters, including revenue, expenses, and grant opportunities. Zoning meetings and a report from Neighborhood Strategies were also discussed.