2025: A Year in Review (Part 1)
2025: A Year in Review
January
Community Service: A way of life for Bruce McKenzie
A native of Vandalia, he and his wife relocated to Tipp City in 1990 to be closer to family. Community service has been a way of life for McKenzie. Serving on the Tipp City Foundation Board since 2016, he said goodbye in 2025.
Tipp Police offering Blue Envelope Program
The Tipp City PD has joined the nationwide effort to facilitate communication between individuals on the autism spectrum. The envelope will include the person’s information and critical communication guidelines to help law enforcement recognize and adapt their approach when interacting with a driver with autism. The Blue Envelopes are available at the PD.
Tipp City Lights winners announced
Tipp Monroe Community Services fifth annual holiday light winners were:
· First Place - 500 Stonecress Drive
· Second Place - 724 Hathaway Trail
· Third Place - 775 Rosecrest Drive
Superintendent reviews latest PK-8 school design
Chaffee’s Brewhouse hosted this January meeting. Superintendent Moran reiterated that the school will be a three-story, 55-foot-tall building housing PK-8 grades. The three floors will consist of flexible pods designed to encourage collaboration among teachers and students. Instead of using concrete throughout the structure, steel beams will be used for the frame. Attendees had questions about restrooms in the new building. Moran said the current plan is for each level to have one multi-stall restroom that both boys and girls will use. Each stall will be private.
Tipp Schools Student Information System Data Breach
The Director of Technology contacted parents regarding a cyberattack that affected their system. This did not result from any action or mishandling by the schools. The systems were not compromised. This breach exposed certain data stored in the system. The data included names, addresses, student ID numbers, other personally identifiable information and medical. Bank account numbers or Social Security numbers are not stored in PowerSchool, so they were not involved.
Vandalia interim city manager sworn in
Interim City Manager Curt Althouse was formally sworn in at the January 6 council meeting. Two new police officers, Hunter Stout and Alexander Plummer, were also sworn in. During citizen comments, one expressed concern about the strain placed on police and fire resources during the annual air show. This citizen believes the previous agreement is no longer equitable for both parties. He suggested the air show pay a fair rate of $100,000 and two chalet tents.
Tipp City Chamber unveils new logo
The Chamber’s new logo is a design born from the creativity and talent from within the community. The new logo was designed by Craig from Hue 12. His design stood out for its ability to blend historical significance, creating a timeless look that connects Tipp City’s past and future.
Citizens bombard superintendent with questions concerning unisex bathrooms
At the latest school update, citizens asked numerous questions, some shouting, others talking over each other about the design of the new building. Mr. Moran explained that the problems with today’s bathrooms were primary due to the lack of supervision and privacy. He argued that the proposed bathrooms would have individual private stalls with locks. Several attendees noted that the Ohio legislature passed a bill that outlawed unisex bathrooms.
North Point Church finds new space
Launched in the Community Room of the Vandalia Library in 2018, they found a new home. After receiving approval from Vandalia City Council, the church purchased 304 N. Dixie Dr.
Vandalia utility rates increased in 2025
Two water main breaks occurred in one week. The first Jan. 9 and the second Jan. 10. Breaks such as these have been a major reason for the increase in utility rates. Rates have remained low, in part, because the city has deferred maintenance on the wastewater treatment plant and sanitary sewage collection systems. Many water mains are nearing the end of their expected useful life. The city will need to implement a robust replacement schedule over the next 20 years.
Robert Menker honored at church art show
Robert “Bob” Menker was honored at the Hoffman Global Methodist Church Art Show for his many contributions to the West Milton community. He was the owner and operator of Patterson’s Flowers for 46 years. As a representative on the M-U Council of Churches, he organized volunteers to “Ring the Bell” for the Union Township Salvation Army. During his 50 years with the W.M. Lions Club, he organized community blood drives, 4th of July chicken dinners, and bingo. He has received the Melvin Jones Award - the highest award granted by his peers. He is the recipient of the City Council and Milton High School's Hall of Fame Award.
DTCP celebrates 20 years at annual awards ceremony
Those receiving awards were:
· Heart of Downtown Award – Mauk Cabinets by Design
· New Business of the Year – Rad Candy Company
· Non-Profit of the Year – Tipp City Public Library
· Libations Spot of the Year – Chaffee’s Brewhouse
· Service Industry Business of the Year – Zack Jacobs, State Farm Agent
· Shopping Spot of the Year and Business of the Year – Living Simply Soap
· Salon of the Year – The Hair Barre
· Restaurant of the Year – Bodega Market
· William Henry Harrison Volunteer of the Year – Chris Snider
February
Four-way stop signs return to Third and Dow, Third and Plum
Two four-way stop signs have returned at the intersections of Third Street & Plum and Third Street & Dow Street in downtown Tipp City. The signs were reinstalled in their previous locations on the morning of February 3, along with warning signs to remind drivers of the four-way stops. Removed in 2022 after a traffic study showed they weren’t needed, the sign removal generated traffic issues and citizen complaints over traffic and speed concerns, particularly concerning children’s safety issues at the crossings. After some discussion and review of a new city-performed traffic study, council agreed to return the signs.
Fate of Broadway School property discussed by BOE and Council
The chamber was about two-thirds filled with citizens interested in the discussion, many with homes surrounding the Broadway property. City Manager Eric Mack noted that no plans for the property had been made. He explained that this was just a preliminary meeting, no decisions would be made, and other meetings would follow.
THS student hosts Valentine’s event
Love was in the air on Saturday, February 15th, in Tippecanoe High School, where Senior Evie Gold hosted a memorable Valentine’s event. Children from the community were invited to listen to Evie present a story time of Froggy’s First Kiss, create froggy-themed valentines, decorate cookies, and play games as a part of Evie’s Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) event.
Property owners urged to act cautiously amid recent reports of unsolicited offers
If you receive an unsolicited offer to purchase real estate, the Ohio Department of Commerce’s Division of Real Estate and Professional Licensing (REPL) urges you to practice caution. As tempting as an offer may be, acting quickly and without the advice of a local real estate expert could have a range of significant consequences. For example, you may think the offer is too good to pass up, when in fact it’s well below the market value of your property.
Acclaimed West Milton restaurant to close doors on February 28
There was a family-owned landmark in the heart of West Milton, a restaurant called The Pearson House, that’s been serving up home-style meals since 1983. One of its signature attractions was advertised in fancy script on the front window where you can’t miss it on your way in - “Save room for pie!” Sadly, the pie, barbecued ribs, fried perch and other homemade delights were no more after the Pearson House closed its doors on February 28.
Tipp Board of Ed selects construction manager
Board members approved two contracts for the PK-8 building:
Contract with Clearsage Consulting, LLC, to serve as a neutral facilitating agent, as recommended by the OFCC.
Contract with Shook Construction, to serve as Construction Manager, as recommended by the OFCC.
March
City moves forward with Tipp Plaza Purchase
With the closing on Feb. 24, the City of Tipp City announced the final purchase of the Tipp Plaza property and issued a statement saying the following actions are on the way: parking lot improvements, landscape beautification, and improvements and mechanical improvements as needed. Also planned are evaluating exterior lighting and making recommendations for repairs/additions for the safety of those who visit the property.
Fund helps people with blood cancers
The Tipp City Foundation was grateful to announce their newest fund, in honor of local leader and community member Patrick Reese. The Be the Match Fund, in memory of Patrick S. Reese, was established in 2025. The fund assists people fighting blood cancers by providing operating support to the National Marrow Donor Program (Be the Match).
Tipp Council recognized Jordan Little as Officer of the Year
Little was commended for his attitude, dedication to the department and community, training and work ethic. As well as his willingness to assist when needed. And after 1 ½ years of service with the Tipp Police Department, he is one of the department’s most upbeat, kind, selfless, and reliable officers.
County voters could be asked to help fund $100 million county jail project
The county commissioners said they would ask voters, probably next year, to support a temporary sales tax to pay for the project. The amount of that tax and the length of its life have not been determined.
Vandalia announces new police chief
Vandalia Police Captain Brandon Sucher has been selected to become the City’s next police chief. Sucher will lead the department following the transition of current Police Chief Kurt Althouse to fulltime city manager.
Vandalia Council moves Brown School PUD forward amidst controversy
Fourteen residents appealed to council on this issue throughout the night, voicing concerns about traffic safety, lot sizes, cul-de-sac code compliance, increased classroom sizes for expected families drawn to the development, and much more. While many of these worries had been raised in previous sessions, council members did take note of the community’s suggestions.
Tipp City Fire & Emergency Services welcomes new firefighters and engine
On March 10, city officials, family, friends, and the community gathered to witness Kearsten Miller, Austin White, Enrique Alejandre, and Caleb Steggemann take the oath of office to serve the citizens of Tipp City, Monroe Township, and any visitors. This day also celebrated a time-honored tradition in the fire service for the arrival of a new unit. The fire truck push-in ceremony is a time-honored tradition in the fire service that celebrates the arrival of a new unit. Fire trucks are a sizable purchase for communities, a push-in ceremony is a means to bring the community together with a formal event.
Maggie Armitage was named EMS Provider of the Year
Chief Cameron Hall read the Proclamation and commented that Maggie had earned the mutual respect of all area hospitals and participated in all the training offered, including fire training. She is a high-quality contributor who is always calm, cool, and collected, giving orders when needed. She always puts others first and goes out of her way to assist me and all the other EMS members.
Vandalia Council welcomes new fire chief
Rich Morett took the oath of office to officially become Vandalia’s fire chief. Previously working as a community risk reduction coordinator for the division of fire, Morett’s long tenure of service provides him nearly three decades of experience in preparation for his new role.
April
Going once, going twice: TMCS holds their annual purse auction
The 2025 theme was Enchanted Fairy Garden, and guests who purchased tables were able to decorate their own table centerpieces. The event was hosted at the Tipp City Global Methodist Church downtown, and also featured a variety of activities like a live and silent purse auction, a boutique, a luncheon, raffles, and door prizes. Proceeds go toward TMCS’s Lunch on Us Program.
THS DI Team wins state title, heading to global finals
Tippecanoe High School’s Destination Imagination (DI) team, Just Henry, has achieved a significant milestone—capturing first place at the Ohio DI Tournament and earning an invitation to compete at Global Finals in Kansas City, Missouri. The prestigious Global Finals event brings together elite student teams from across the United States and over 20 other countries to compete in a celebration of creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking.
Tipp Council approves funds for Kyle Park pickleball courts
Council authorized the City Manager to contract with Outdoor Enterprise of Tipp City to construct eight new Pickleball Courts at Kyle Park for a cost of $252,876.60, which was the lowest bid submitted. The city had budgeted $350,000 for the project and had also received a $50,000 grant from the Tipp Foundation.
New Carlisle Council appoints new city manager
City Manager Donald Hall, III, was sworn in during their regularly scheduled meeting held on Monday, April 7. Hall received the oath of office from Clerk of Council Christine Stapleton, following a vote by council members to approve his appointment to the position starting on Monday, April 14. Hall will replace previous City Manager Randy Bridge, who resigned from the position in November of 2024.
Flock cameras solve crimes, locate people
The automated license plate readers provide a still image of a vehicle and its license plate number. It sends real-time alerts if the plate number belongs to a stolen vehicle or is one being sought by law enforcement because of an AMBER alert or other missing person alert. The readers are not used for facial recognition or in traffic enforcement, police say.
SAR and DAR members celebrate 250th anniversary of Paul Revere’s ride
Local sons and daughters of the American Revolution gathered at WACO Air Museum and Learning Center on Friday, April 18, 2025, hosting a special ceremony to commemorate the 250th Anniversary of Paul Revere’s ride and the first battles of the Revolutionary War at Lexington and Concord. Hosted by the Piqua-Lewis Boyer chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) and the Richard Montgomery chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution (SAR), the ceremony featured a program on the 250th anniversary, including a reading of the poem “Midnight Ride,” by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, and presentations by local SAR and DAR members.
Hyatt Trails development proposed for northeast Tipp City
A substantial new residential development is poised to reshape the northeast quadrant of Tipp City as planning officials consider the preliminary plat for “Hyatt Trails,” a 293-home subdivision spanning over 138 acres. The plans describe what would be one of the city’s largest residential projects in recent years.
Tipp Council considered bigger 4th of July fireworks
The consensus of council members was that, for 2026 and beyond, the approach should be to increase the size of the show, add more fireworks, expand ground activities, and add more food trucks and concessions. Also discussed was having a Veterans’ Day Banner program, similar to West Milton.
Tipp Students launch Kindness Revolution in Downtown
Tipp City Middle School students are bringing a message of kindness, accountability, and respect to the heart of downtown Tipp City, thanks to a student-led initiative launched under the leadership of School Resource Officer Warren Edmonson. The program, known as OCC’s Kindness Revolution, encourages students to practice kindness and integrity, even when no one is watching. Over time, it has evolved into a broader effort that includes restorative practices and peer-led accountability to help create a more positive school culture.
May
Nevin Coppock abatement and demolition to begin in May
The board approved a contract with Shook Construction Company to abate and demolish Nevin Coppock Elementary School. Nevin Coppock has been closed since spring 2024, in anticipation of demolition to make way for the new PK-8 building. The abatement and demolition project is GMP Amendment #4.1 (Guaranteed Maximum Price Amendment), the first of several projects needed to supplement the construction of the PK-8 building. Superintendent Aaron Moran commented at the meeting that the Shook contract had been reviewed by the OFCC (Ohio Facilities Construction Commission), Tipp School’s partner in the PK-8 design and construction. He also noted that abatement for Nevin Coppock (removing known hazardous material) will likely occur soon, in mid-to-late May, with demolition starting in mid-June and finishing by August.
Tipp Burger King demolished, Tipp City purchases Long property
On Tuesday, May 6, demolition crews are working to demolish the old Burger King building located near Tipp City Plaza. In the days prior to the demolition, members of the Tipp fire department were spotted on the rooftop, using the location for temporary training. The building debris was quickly removed, setting the stage for site cleanup and future construction. On Monday, May 5, the Tipp City Council authorized the purchase of the Long property, an agricultural property located southwest of the intersection of Main Street/571 and 25-A. The city is working with Woodard Development, who have tentatively entered into an assignable purchase contract with the Long Family Trust for the purchase of Parcel G15-022634, which comprises 60.535 acres.
Church raises over $266,000 for foster care
Ginghamsburg Church is continuing its commitment to caring for vulnerable children with a show of support for Isaiah 117 House. Since 2023, the church has raised a total of $266,195 to help build a transitional home for children entering the foster care system in Dayton—most recently gifting $182,725 from its 2024 Christmas Miracle Offering.
Senior girls attend 81st Annual Senior Tea
For 81 years, senior girls at Tippecanoe High School have gathered for the annual senior tea. The tea was held May 22 at Tipp Center with Tipp City’s Carli Amlin as the featured speaker.
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