By 1808Delaware
Delaware County Commissioners convened on February 3 to address a variety of county matters, including infrastructure projects, law enforcement retirements, and economic development. Commissioner Barb Lewis, president of the board, presided over the meeting, joined by fellow commissioner Gary Merill. Commissioner Jeff Benton was absent.
Annexation of Orange Township Land to Columbus Moves Forward
The commissioners approved Resolution 25-76, acknowledging receipt of an annexation petition from attorneys David Hodge and Eric Zartman on behalf of the petitioner. The request seeks to annex 14.9 acres of land in Orange Township to the City of Columbus.
This continues a trend of annexation petitions in Delaware County, as development pressure from Columbus expands northward. The board approved the motion with unanimous support.
Law Enforcement Veteran Recognized for 31 Years of Service
A key highlight of the meeting was the recognition of Lieutenant Jason Passet, a 31-year law enforcement veteran of the Delaware County Sheriff’s Office. Although Passet was unable to attend—he was vacationing in the Caribbean—Chief Deputy Scott Scurtin spoke about his distinguished career.
Passet’s service began in 1994 at the Crawford County Sheriff’s Office, later transitioning to Delaware County in 1997 under Sheriff Al Myers. His career highlights include:
- Serving as a canine handler for two police dogs, Baron and Quattro.
- Conducting narcotics investigations as part of the county’s Drug Task Force.
- Leading significant criminal apprehensions, including a kidnapping rescue in 2003.
- Rising through the ranks from Sergeant (2016) to Lieutenant (2019).
The commissioners formally recognized his retirement through Resolution 25-77, declaring county-owned personal property associated with Passet’s career available for transfer to him upon retirement.
Infrastructure Projects Advance in Delaware County
Pat’s Road & Peachblow Road Intersection Set for Roundabout
Commissioners approved Resolution 25-83, authorizing the purchase of property needed for the upcoming Pat’s Road and Peachblow Road intersection improvement project in Berlin Township. The project will convert the intersection into a modern roundabout, with construction scheduled to begin in 2026.
Steamtown Road Bridge Replacement Moves Forward
Commissioners approved Resolution 25-84, setting March 4, 2025, as the bid date for the Steamtown Road Bridge replacement project in Oxford Township. The project will replace the existing bridge over the West Branch of Alum Creek, with work expected to begin this summer and be completed by fall 2025.
Sheriff’s Office Vehicle Upgrades
The Delaware County Sheriff’s Office received approval for the annual purchase of patrol vehicles through Resolution 25-78. Captain Scott Vance explained that this request is part of routine fleet maintenance to ensure safe and efficient service for deputies on duty.
New Business Developments in Delaware County
Commissioner Merill shared an update on a major economic development project in the county—the groundbreaking for a Mercedes-Benz dealership near the Tanger Outlets in Sunbury. The dealership, expected to open by April 2026, is a significant addition to the county’s growing commercial sector.
During the groundbreaking event, Merill reconnected with longtime Delaware County business leader Rett Rohrer, whose family has been active in community development for decades.
Facility Usage and Drainage Maintenance Approvals
The board approved two requests for the use of county facilities:
- Resolution 25-80: The Ohio Department of Agriculture was granted permission to use the Bixby large meeting room for training sessions.
- Resolution 25-81: A judge-elect was approved to use the Delaware County Commissioners’ meeting room for a swearing-in ceremony.
Additionally, Resolution 25-86 approved a drainage maintenance petition for Dublin Court, a 24.6-acre development in Concord Township. The petition, submitted by 100% of property owners, requests inclusion in the county’s drainage maintenance program.
Executive Session Concludes Meeting
The commissioners adjourned into an executive session under Resolution 25-88, citing the need to discuss pending litigation and administrative matters.
