WORLD HERITAGE DESIGNATION

Ohio now has its first UNESCO World Heritage designation. Today, a UNESCO committee voted to name the Hopewell Ceremonial Earthworks a World Heritage Site. The Hopewell Ceremonial Earthworks, which include the Octagon Earthworks in Newark, were built by Native Americans between 1,600 and 2,000 years ago.

FATAL CRASH

An 82-year-old Bremen man was killed in a crash in Fairfield County. According to the Ohio State Highway Patrol, Monday around 3:30 a.m., Donald Shahan was traveling on Ohio 664 in Rushcreek Township, when he drove off the right side of the road, and struck a ditch. Shahan was pronounced dead at the scene. The crash is under investigation.

NEWARK MAN INDICTED

A 28-year-old Newark man has been indicted for allegedly attacking another person. Andrew Baker faces multiple charges including two counts of strangulation, and one count of domestic violence. Baker is being held on $250,000 bond. He is due back in court later today.

PROPERTY VALUATIONS

Licking County residents have been receiving the 2023 State-mandated property reappraisals in the the mail.

Licking County Auditor Michael Smith said the 2023 market values will be in place until the next “triennial” update in 2026.  If you have questions or concerns about your property valuation call the Licking County Auditor's Office at 740-670-5042.

MONEY FOR PROJECTS

More than $13.8 million in Neighborhood Revitalization and Critical Infrastructure grants will be awarded to 23 communities for projects such as new community centers, upgraded water infrastructure, road and bridge improvements, new fire hydrants, and recreation enhancements. Licking County will receive $500,000 to assist the village of Hebron with flood and drainage facilities that will benefit 300 people.

MEDICAL DEBT

Since the passage of the American Rescue Plan Act in 2021, a number of cities and counties in Ohio and around the nation have used ARPA funding to retire medical debt.

Allison Sesso, president and CEO, RIP Medical Debt, said entities contract with them to negotiate with hospitals and buy debt for pennies on the dollar.  To date, they have retired $10 billion worth of medical debt for 7 million people.

BROWNS LOSE MORE THAN JUST A GAME

The Browns fell to the Steelers 26-22 on Monday Night Football. Running back Nick Chubb left the game in the first half with what the team described as a significant knee injury.