On Tuesday, December 30, in a private ceremony, Sheriff Robert L. Bratton was sworn in by the Honorable Judge Kathleen Giesler in her chambers.  This is Sheriff Bratton’s second term as Ottawa County Sheriff.  This was witnessed by Court Administrator Ms. Lori Clune.  

The Village of Marblehead Finance Committee has been working on appropriations for 2009.  One of the main goals was to upgrade salaries of Village employees and to make continuous capital improvements in the Village.

Salaries of the employees are not on a par with employees of villages and townships of similar size.  The committee is looking at ways to improve the situation with across the board pay increases as the budget will allow.

United Way in Ottawa County has taken the first step toward coordinating efforts to educate the public about utility assistance and local resources.

Recently, people from around Ottawa County gathered at a Utility Forum to discuss available resources and options for those seeking help. The Forum included representatives from social service agencies, government programs and the utility companies.

“Need for utility assistance is on the rise,” said Chris Galvin, Director of United Way in Ottawa County, “but many people don’t know where to turn. This forum was the first step in educating the public on resources and assistance that’s available.”

At the Forum, people received updated information on programs like HEAP, Salvation Army, PIPP and the Home Weatherization Assistance Program. Columbia Gas, Ohio Edison, Toledo Edison and Oak Harbor Utilities were also on hand.

“When a consumer is about to fall behind on paying a bill, he or she should call us immediately,” said Trent Smith, regional president of Toledo Edison. “The sooner we know there’s a problem, the sooner the consumer can get access to the help that’s available.”

“Interrupting someone’s service is always a last resort," added Chris Kozak, Columbia Gas of Ohio Communications and Community Relations Manager. “We will work with every customer to ensure service. Should those options be exhausted, there are several social service agencies the consumer can turn to for assistance."

When arrangements aren’t possible with the utility company, consumers may turn to public and private agencies like WSOS, Department of Jobs and Family Services, Veterans Services or Salvation Army for help.  

Consumers are urged to dial United Way 2-1-1 to get connected to help. 

Changes have been made to the weather emergency levels for Ottawa County and will be used for assessing weather levels in the county.  The levels have been amended from previous years.  

Level 1:  This level will no longer be used.