Jewett council reviews Christmas plans

Jewett Village Council opened its November meeting with an update on Christmas activities. The annual tree lighting ceremony will take place Dec. 12 at 6 p.m. in the grassy area across from the administration building.

Council member Bobbi Prevot reported that the village’s wooden Christmas tree fundraiser continues to grow. The trees, which will be displayed around town, come in two sizes. Prevot said she has sold six of the larger trees so far.

“Greg Tenley cut them all out and sanded them down, Todd Thompson donated the plywood, and Liz Brooks is going to be painting all the decorations,” she said.

The four-foot trees cost $100 and the three-foot trees cost $50. A small storage fee will apply, but the same tree can be used year after year as long as the business remains satisfied with its display.

Prevot also told council she attended a recent commissioners meeting to request $22,000 for repairs to the Jewett Park building. She said she received a contractor quote several months ago and noted that the village may be able to save money by purchasing some materials themselves.

Clerk Linda Ager said village employees have already begun cleanup work inside the building in preparation for larger repairs. “I’ve had to calm them down,” she said. “The dumpster was out there last week and they already have it full.”

Councilman Joshua Walters praised the effort, noting that workers have been doing a strong job cleaning the area. “We’ll eventually get the word out when it’s renovated,” Walters said. “Get some events in there so people see it.”

Mayor George Baillie encouraged each committee to hold year-end meetings to finalize plans and prepare for 2026. He also discussed updates to the village’s cybersecurity policy.

“Take a look at it. We’ve got to have it,” Baillie said. “It’s generic, just got something typed up to appease the state of Ohio. I’m sure we’ll have to revamp it but at least we have something.” He added that council members will be required to attend annual cybersecurity training. “There’s going to be more to come with this,” he said.

Jewett’s village administrator recently resigned, and officials are seeking applicants to fill the position. Interested individuals may contact the village administration office at 740-946-1471.