County highlights foster care shortage during proclamation

Carroll County commissioners proclaimed May as Foster Care Month during their April 30 meeting, highlighting the need for more foster families in the county.

Social service workers Leah Batson and Mikayla Hinerman of Carroll County Job and Family Services said the county currently has eight licensed foster homes, along with one respite home and one foster-only home.

They noted 26 children are currently placed outside their homes, with many placed outside the county due to the shortage of available foster families locally.

“We’re in need of foster homes,” Hinerman said.

Commissioner Chris Modranski read the proclamation, which emphasized the importance of stable placements for children.

“Having stable, nurturing placements has a positive impact on children and youth resilience and long-term well-being,” the proclamation states.

Officials said an informational meeting for prospective foster parents will be held May 19 at 5:30 p.m. in a virtual format. Those interested can contact Job and Family Services to register and receive a link.

Batson also encouraged community participation in awareness efforts, asking residents to wear blue on May 5 in recognition of Foster Care Month.

Commissioners unanimously approved the proclamation recognizing May 2026 as Foster Care Month in Carroll County.

In other business, commissioners:

—APPROVED a special hauling permit for DeNoon Lumber Company LLC on Aurora Road in East Township, with a $50,000 bond provided.

—APPROVED nine right-of-way permits for EOG Resources for multiple well-related projects, as recommended by the county engineer.

—APPOINTED Matthew Chiurco of Carrollton to the Carroll County Board of Developmental Disabilities for the remainder of a term ending Dec. 31, 2027.

—AUTHORIZED Vice President Robert Wirkner to sign documents related to the Carroll County Airport apron design project.

—APPROVED an Ohio Water Development Authority planning application and cooperative agreement for the Stony Lake Area Wastewater System Improvement Project, pending prosecutor review.