After about two decades of regular patrols, the village of Lakeview has a new primary law enforcement agency serving its residents.
Members of the Lakeview council have entered into a contract with the Washington Township Police Department for law enforcement services, effective Dec. 30. The new agreement with Washington Township police means the village will not renew its patrol agreement with the Logan County Sheriff’s Office.
The agreement, approved Monday, Dec. 16, during a regular meeting of the Lakeview Village Council, provides for 20 hours of patrol each week in the village at an annual cost of $49,920.
Washington Township Police Chief Michael Thompson expressed confidence that his officers will provide consistent coverage within the village across all three shifts.
Councilman Pat Parrish noted concerns over the service previously provided by the Logan County Sheriff’s Office, which has patrolled the village since at least 2006. Parrish pointed out that deputies were often diverted to calls outside the village limits, resulting in reduced coverage for Lakeview.
The council adopted the ordinance, which finalized the contract with Washington Township Police, after suspending the three-reading rule.
Doug Herling, Vice President of Open Road Renewals, provided an overview of a proposed 500-megawatt solar farm during the council meeting. While no solar panels are planned within Lakeview’s village limits, the project is focused on areas to the south and east.
Herling addressed environmental concerns raised by council members over the Grange Solar project, including the potential impact of displaced or damaged panels. He noted that Open Road Renewals has posted a bond with the state of Ohio to cover land remediation costs at the conclusion of the 40-year project.
The project could generate significant revenue for the community, including annual payments of $2.4 million to Indian Lake Schools, $625,000 to local townships and $100,000 to the village. Over 40 years, the total revenue is projected to reach $200 million, Herling said.
Council member Sandy Knott announced the winners of Lakeview’s Christmas light contest:
Residential
1st Place – Tom and Wendy Fletcher
2nd Place – Shawn and Carly Johnson
3rd Place – Mike and Tammy Stringfellow
Business
1st Place – Peaches Herb & Flowers
2nd Place – Trina’s Second Hand Rose
3rd Place – Indian Lake Outfitters
The next Lakeview Council meeting is scheduled for Monday, Jan. 6, 2025.