Minerva officials outline projects, plans at luncheon

Minerva Village officials highlighted completed projects, long-term planning efforts and public safety initiatives, while Minerva Local Schools leaders shared academic, financial and safety updates during the State of Minerva luncheon hosted by the Minerva Area Chamber of Commerce Jan. 27 at Great Trail Golf Course. There were 33 people in attendance.

Minerva Village Administrator Greg Mytinger presented an overview of village operations, recent accomplishments and priorities looking ahead to 2026, noting the village’s focus on infrastructure investment, community improvement and thoughtful growth.

Mytinger outlined several projects completed in 2025, including downtown bistro lighting, new wayfinding signage and downtown maps, repairs and facade improvements to the Village Hall bell tower and progress on the Minerva Housing Initiative and downtown revitalization efforts. Infrastructure work included paving projects and waterline replacement, while park improvements included new communication boards and a peace pole installed at Veterans Memorial Park.

Looking ahead, Mytinger said the village has more than $1 million budgeted for capital improvement projects in 2026, with planned investments across multiple departments. Those include street equipment purchases, park upgrades, water and wastewater system improvements, swimming pool enhancements and police department needs.

Two major infrastructure projects are also scheduled. The Minerva Municipal Park bridge replacement is expected to be completed by May, while the Grant Street bridge replacement project is slated to begin in June and be completed by October.

Community initiatives were also highlighted, including the expansion of the Make Minerva More program. Launched in 2024 as a residential exterior painting initiative, the program raised more than $52,000 through local sponsors and residents. Beginning in 2026, eligible residents will be able to apply for assistance with exterior home repairs in addition to painting.

Mytinger also discussed long-term planning efforts, including a Community Building Steering Committee that is gathering public input on the future of a rentable community building. The village will also begin work on a comprehensive Village Master Plan in partnership with Stark County Regional Planning starting in April 2026, a process expected to take up to eight months. Residents will be encouraged to participate throughout the planning process.

Public safety updates were provided by Sgt. Mike Clunen of the Minerva Police Department, who reviewed departmental changes and initiatives planned for 2026. Those include continued training efforts, equipment upgrades and facility improvements.

Clunen noted the department has secured new Taser 10s through a long-term contract and received grant funding through the Ohio Attorney General’s Office to purchase new body armor for officers. A new police cruiser is also planned for purchase in 2026, along with expanded training opportunities and the creation of a new departmental position.

Minerva Local Schools Superintendent Mark Scott also addressed the audience, highlighting academic progress, fiscal responsibility and student safety across the district.

Scott reported Minerva Local Schools received a four-star rating on its most recent state report card, along with a five-star gap-closing designation. Curriculum updates included the successful implementation of a new K-5 literacy program aligned with the science of reading, the launch of the Minerva Lion Academy intervention program at the middle school level and expanded STEM and elective course offerings at Minerva High School. The high school also added Advanced Placement Government to its course catalog.

Scott highlighted achievements in athletics and fine arts, as well as continued investment in school facilities, including turf installation at Dr. Robert Hines Stadium and new elementary school roof work.

Financially, Scott said the district received the Auditor of State Award and continues to operate efficiently, with approximately 65% of the district’s budget going directly into the classroom. The district’s total spending per pupil is about 20% lower than the Ohio state average, and the teacher-to-student ratio stands at approximately 18-1.

Safety and communication were also emphasized. Scott said the district has rolled out a new website, mobile app and parent-teacher communication platform, while continuing to enhance building security through updated cameras, emergency management testing, mental health supports and collaboration with the Ohio School Safety Center. The district currently employs three armed school resource or security officers.

Scott also reviewed enrollment trends and capital improvement planning for the 2025-26 school year, noting continued efforts to support students at all grade levels.