Carroll County commissioners issue Patriot Day proclamation on Sept. 11

Carroll County commissioners passed a Patriot Day proclamation at their Sept. 11 meeting.

Commissioner Robert Wirkner then presented a proclamation declaring Sept. 11 as Patriot Day, emphasizing remembrance of the victims of the 9/11 attacks, the nation’s commitment to freedom and patriotism, and the promotion of peace, goodwill and responsible citizenship. The board formally adopted the proclamation.

Commissioner Chris Modranski reflected on the unity of the country following the 2001 attacks and connected those sentiments to the recent public assassination of conservative influencer Charlie Kirk, which commissioners viewed as an assault on First Amendment rights. They stressed the importance of protecting free speech, called for the nation to “do better” and offered prayers for the victim’s family and others affected.

“As a country, as human beings, we have to do better,” said Modranski.

“Well, there should be no infringement upon our First Amendment right to free speech,” said Wirkner. “And when people are assassinated for practicing that right, that provides a deterrence for others who would practice their freedom of speech. As you said, Chris, we have to do better. This just can’t go on.”

Patriot Day was established in the aftermath of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, when nearly 3,000 people lost their lives in New York City, at the Pentagon and in Pennsylvania. In December 2001, the U.S. Congress passed a resolution designating Sept. 11 as Patriot Day, a national day of remembrance. It stands as a solemn occasion to honor the victims, first responders and all who displayed courage and sacrifice during and after the attacks. Each year, Americans observe moments of silence, fly flags at half-staff and participate in acts of service, reflecting the nation’s resilience and unity in the face of tragedy.

In other business, commissioners: — PAID bills totaling $169,175.75.

— HEARD early voting will be held Oct. 7–10, Oct. 14–17 and Oct. 20–24 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Extended hours will be offered Oct. 27 from 7:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. and Oct. 28 from 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Additional voting days include Oct. 29–31 from 7:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m., Nov. 1 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Nov. 2 from 1-5 p.m.

— APPROVED the Ohio SEPCO renewal rates for 2026 health and dental benefits. A 12.1% increase was reported for Carroll County, attributed to large medical claims, placing the county near the middle of statewide increases, which ranged from no increase to a maximum of 18%.