Suicide prevention initiative highlighted at Carroll County Commissioners meeting

The Carroll County commissioners learned of an upcoming Hope in Ohio event and hired a new staff member at their Feb. 9 meeting.

Natalie Bollon of the Alcohol, Drug Addiction and Mental Health Services Board of Ohio addressed the Board of Commissioners and explained that she has been visiting ADAMH Boards across the state to share information about 988, Ohio’s statewide suicide prevention and crisis line operated through the Ohio Department of Behavioral Health.

During a recent visit to Carroll County, discussion focused on the county’s suicide rate, and she thanked the Carroll County Health Department for establishing a suicide fatality review committee approximately a year and a half ago to review local data and identify prevention strategies.

Bollon reported that Carroll County’s suicide rate is significantly higher than the state average. Ohio’s rate is approximately 15 suicides per 100,000 residents, while Carroll County’s 2025 rate is 34 per 100,000, representing nine deaths and more than double the statewide average. She noted that 67% of suicides in the county involve individuals over the age of 50, more than a quarter involve individuals with military history and most deaths occur by gunshot wounds.

Based on these findings, the Ohio Department of Behavioral Health invited Carroll County to participate in an initiative called Hope in Ohio, which has been implemented in other counties. The initiative focuses on reviewing local data, identifying community resources, addressing stigma surrounding mental health treatment and developing strategies to reduce suicide rates.

As part of the initiative, Bollon announced that state representatives will visit Carroll County Feb. 25 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at the Friendship Center.

“Carroll County’s suicide rate is more than double the state average, and that tells us we have to do something differently,” said Bollon. “This initiative is about understanding what’s happening locally and making sure people know there are resources available and help is just a call or text away.”

In an unrelated matter, commissioners heard a hiring recommendation from Ed Eick, building and grounds superintendent, regarding a custodial and maintenance position. Five applications were reviewed, and all applicants were strong, according to Eick.

“This is actually the first time during my employment with the county that all five applicants had strong, relevant skills for the position,” said Eick. “It made the decision difficult because they were all well qualified.”

After further review, the top three candidates were selected for interviews conducted by Eick and Commissioner Donald Leggett II.

Following the interview process, Eick recommended Alberto Gomez for hire as maintenance technician I. Gomez brings extensive experience in building maintenance and repair, including plumbing, electrical work, carpentry, landscaping and HVAC. He also has more than 20 years of experience overseeing work to ensure compliance with federal, state and local codes and regulations. He also has experience with snow plowing and sidewalk maintenance.

A motion was made and approved to hire Gomez at a starting rate of $20 per hour, contingent upon a start date, background check and drug screening. The motion was seconded and approved unanimously.

In other business, commissioners:

—Heard the Carroll County Courthouse will be closed Monday, Feb. 16, in observance of Presidents Day.

—Approved Change Order No. 14 in the amount of $157,065 for HVAC work associated with the Moody Avenue renovation project.

—Paid village bills totaling $216,657.36.