Dover Council recognizes Autism Acceptance Month

A surprise speech at Dover council celebrated Autism Acceptance month in a big way. The address was given by Jehred Bennett of Dover during the public comment section of the meeting. Bennett wanted to share something important about who he is.

“I have autism. I don't see it as something that holds me back. I see it as my superpower,” Bennett said. “My brain works differently. I may notice details. I may think deeply, feel strongly and stay focused on things I'm passionate about. Those are strengths and those are gifts.”

Superpowers can come with challenges too.

“Sometimes the world can feel overwhelming, too loud, too fast or hard to understand. Social situations can be confusing. Communication may look different for me than it does for you, but different doesn't mean less, it just means different,” Bennett said.

Community is important for inclusion and inclusion doesn’t require perfection.

“It requires understanding. You can make a difference by being patient, by giving someone time to respond, by using clear, respectful language, by not judging someone for avoiding eye contact or needing space, by seeing the person first not just diagnosis,” Bennett said. “When communities choose acceptance, they create spaces where people like me don't just exist, we belong. Autism is my superpower, and with your support, it doesn't have to be something I overcome. It can be something that I use to thrive.”

Bennett was part of a group of Tuscarawas County Challenger Baseball players and their families who attended the April 6 meeting to draw attention to Autism Acceptance month.

Mayor Shane Gunnoe read a proclamation declaring April Autism Acceptance month in Dover, recognizing the fact that one in 31 children are affected by autism today.

“Dover recognizes our community is made more vibrant by the talents, diverse perspective and valuable contributions of our residents on the autism spectrum,” Gunnoe said. “Dover endeavors to be a community that ensures everyone feels a sense of belonging.”

In his mayor’s report, Gunnoe shared some project updates.

“This spring, we are excited to announce a new playground equipment installation has been completed at the top of Deis Hill, and the playground is now open, thanks to the Dover/New Philadelphia Kiwanis for their financial support of this project,” Gunnoe said.

A new scoreboard that has been installed on Field 3 three – the high school baseball field, along with a new safety railing. The project was supported by the Tornado Club, Dover City Schools, Dover Baseball and the city.

Construction of the new picnic pavilion is underway next to the parks office in front of the recently built pickleball courts thanks to the Dover Exchange Club.

“Two other major infrastructure projects are also nearing completion. The north Dover stormwater project contractor has finished construction and is now in the process of restoring and reseeding the construction area,” Gunnoe said. “The Crown Road traffic signals have been installed at Crown Road and Wooster Avenue. Once the remainder of Crown Road has been widened and resurfaced this spring, the signals will be put into use.”

Service Director Dave Douglas presented a list of streets to be paved in 2026, many on the south side of Dover. The streets are Fillmore Avenue, Miles Durr, Monroe Street from Shafer to Boulevard, Anola Avenue, Emerson Avenue, South Bellevue Avenue, Perry Drive (alley on Boulevard), North Bellevue Avenue, Clubview Drive, alley behind Country Club Center, East Iron Avenue (backside of hospital), Hospital Drive, Medical Park Drive, East Iron Avenue (front side of hospital), North McKinley Avenue, Bond Street, North James Street, East Slingluff Avenue, West Slingluff Avenue, Wooster Avenue from Young Drive to Ohio Avenue, Wooster Avenue from Ohio Avenue to Northwood, Wooster Avenue from Northwood to Parral, West Shafer, South Avenue from Union to Tusc., West Wills from Main Street to Union Avenue and West Wills from Main Street to St. Clair Street.

Douglas said Enbridge Gas is currently working on replacing gas mains in the downtown Dover area and just south of Wooster Avenue bridge.

In a recent bid opening, McB Paving of Ashland was awarded the bid for asphalt paving on the walking path at the Canal Dover Park on the riverfront. Their bid was $207,140.50.

A ribbon cutting for the newly constructed pickleball courts at Dover City Park will be held April 13 at 4 p.m.

The next Dover Council meeting will be held April 20 in council chambers, 121 E. Second St., Dover.