West Chester Connect | 1
Growing Responsibly & Investing in Our Community West Chester Township’s continued success depends on thoughtful planning and responsible investment. As your Board of Trustees, we remain focused on strengthening our local economy, improving amenities for residents, and supporting the public servants who protect our homes and families. BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Ann Becker
With less vacant land available in the Township, economic development increasingly requires careful decisions about redevelopment and land use. To that end, the Board of Trustees made a strategic investment last year with the purchase of approximately 75 acres of property to create the future Mill Creek District. Located at the northeast corner of Union Centre Boulevard and I-75, the Mill Creek District will include almost 20 acres of new public green space, alongside retail, restaurant, and office space that will serve the community and support our tax base. Now in its second phase of planning, the Township is testing the project’s financial feasibility and preparing to select a development partner. This project will require years of thoughtful planning before construction can begin, and we will be seeking public input along the way. In addition to larger development and capital projects, the Township continues to support small business owners — an essential part of our local economy. Through the Spark Grant program, the Township supported 17 property improvement projects in 2026 and has now helped complete 35 enhancements for local small businesses. These targeted grants help business owners improve their properties while strengthening key commercial areas. Read more about the grants on the facing page.
Lee Wong
Amanda Ortiz
We are applying the same thoughtful investment approach to our parks (pages 3-4). Improvements are underway at Beckett Park, funded through Tax Increment Financing generated by nearby commercial development rather than property taxes. The project includes new pickleball courts, a large inclusive playground, expanded trails, and improved restroom facilities. These investments reflect priorities residents identified through the Township’s recent parks and recreation survey. The Board is also planning for future improvements at Keehner Park, which will begin with an evaluation of needs around parking, restrooms, trails, shelters, the amphitheater, playgrounds, and connectivity across both sides of the park. This process will help the Township consider future investments within a clear and fiscallyresponsible framework. All these projects and progress are made possible by our dedicated employees and caring residents. We will continue approaching each decision with a focus on West Chester’s long-term future – improving the quality of life for our residents and supporting a thriving local economy for all. Sincerely,
West Chester Township Board of Trustees
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Spark Grant Winners! SUPPORTING LOCAL BUSINESSES & NEIGHBORHOODS
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Small businesses are at the heart of our community. Our Spark Grant program helps them grow while also keeping our neighborhoods beautiful.” – Ann Becker, Trustee
West Chester businesses are sporting a fresh look, thanks to the Township’s Spark Grant program. With 17 projects completed in 2026, the program has successfully supported local small business owners, while also enhancing key commercial corridors and creating more welcoming community spaces. Administered by the Community Development Department, Spark Grant awards range from $1,000 to $10,000, and can be used for exterior improvements such as painting, signage, awnings, lighting, and outdoor gathering spaces. Privately-owned businesses with 20 or fewer full-time employees located in West Chester Township are eligible to apply. Some projects that have been completed this year include: 1
Welling & Co. Jewelers & West Chester Family Dentistry teamed up to revitalize their shared parking lot.
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Coterie Lounge repainted their building exterior.
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Cut Ups Salon refreshed their exterior sign and installed new shutters.
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WreckTech Auto Body & Paint received a fresh look with a new paint.
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The Donut Hole by Milton’s Donuts increased its visibility with a large, illuminated sign.
While all grants are spoken for this year, interested business owners can visit the Township website for details on future Spark Grant cycles.
Jeff Uckotter DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
West Chester Township welcomes Jeff Uckotter as our new Director of Community Development. With extensive experience in planning, zoning, economic development, and local government, Jeff will help guide major projects and support thoughtful growth throughout the community.
Dana Pinkert DIRECTOR OF FINANCE
Dana Pinkert will serve as West Chester Township’s new Director of Finance, bringing nearly 20 years of experience in government finance and administration. She will lead the Township’s budgeting, financial planning and efforts to ensure public resources are managed responsibly. West Chester Connect | 3 2
INVESTING IN GREEN SPACES
NEW AMENITIES & UPGRADES UNDERWAY AT BECKETT PARK
Last year, West Chester surveyed residents on proposed upgrades at Beckett Park. Residents asked for better multi-use trails, more trees, better playgrounds, pickleball courts, and more bathrooms and shelters. Now, those plans are coming to fruition with an investment of $5 million.
Beckett Park East
PICKLEBALL COURTS
Located near the Boundless Playground, there will be eight new pickleball courts with shaded seating. The project will also expand parking, create a new walking trail, and add a drinking water fountain with bottle refill station and dog water bowl.
Construction progresses on the pickleball courts, which will open in the fall of 2026.
Beckett Park West
TRAILS & TREES
Walking trails will be expanded and paved to improve accessibility and create more recreation opportunities. Additional native trees will be planted.
PLAYGROUND
New playground with accessible play features, a zipline, and separate areas designed for ages 2-5 and 6-12.
SHELTERS & RESTROOMS
Larger shelter areas and additional family restrooms with adultsized changing tables to improve accessibility.
SEATING & FENCING
New fencing and seating walls will create additional barriers between play areas and nearby retention ponds. 4 | West Chester Connect 3
Located next to the Splash Park, the new playground will include a zipline, towering climbing structures, and separate play areas for different age groups.
Reinvesting in Keehner Park MASTER PLAN WILL GUIDE FUTURE IMPROVEMENTS
West Chester Township is developing a longterm master plan to guide future investments at Keehner Park. On July 14, the Board of Trustees approved advertising a Request for Proposals to hire an architectural firm to lead a master planning process for the park. The planning effort will give the Township a framework for future improvements, including evaluating parking, restrooms, shelters, the amphitheater, playgrounds, and walking trails. The work will be supported by $250,000 awarded through the Ohio Department of Natural Resources Parks and Recreation Improvement Fund, part of the State of Ohio’s capital budget. A goal of the overall master plan and future investments will be to preserve the natural character of the park, improve on the amenities already on site, and increase connectivity between both sides of the park. The planning process will include opportunities for residents to give feedback on what they would like to see at Keehner Park. Recommendations from the architect and residents will be integrated into a long-term investment plan and considered as part of the Township’s annual budgeting process.
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This master planning process will help us better understand the needs of Keehner Park and create a thoughtful framework for future improvements that serve residents for years to come.” – Amanda Ortiz, Trustee
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FIRE DEPARTMENT NAMED EMS AGENCY OF THE YEAR
STATEWIDE AWARD FOLLOWS INTERNATIONAL ACCREDITATION FOR SERVICE EXCELLENCE
The West Chester Fire Department has been named the 2026 EMS Agency of the Year by the Ohio Division of Emergency Medical Services, recognizing the department’s professionalism, clinical excellence, and commitment to highquality emergency medical care. “Our partnership with the West Chester Fire Department is built on a shared commitment to improving patient care and upholding the highest standards of clinical excellence in emergency medicine,” said Dr. Christopher Richards, UC Health emergency medicine physician, who nominated the department for the award. The department was formally recognized during the Annual EMS Star of Life ceremony during National EMS Week.
The statewide honor comes shortly after the West Chester Fire Department earned accreditation through the Commission on Fire Accreditation International, completing a three-year review of operations, planning and service delivery. West Chester Township is one of only 330 fire and EMS agencies worldwide to earn this distinction.
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This recognition belongs to every member of the West Chester Fire Department. Thank you for providing compassionate, professional care every single day to our citizens.” – Jason Witte, EMS Bureau Chief
Treating Critical Heart Attack & Stroke Victims The West Chester Fire Department has earned two American Heart Association Mission: Lifeline® EMS Gold Achievement Awards for the high quality of care provided to patients experiencing severe heart attacks and strokes. This national recognition honors EMS agencies that follow proven, research-based protocols to provide rapid treatment, reduce delays, and give patients the best possible chance of recovery.
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CONGRATS
ON YOUR
T N E M E R I RET
Jeff McElwain Facility Services Technician 24 YEARS OF SERVICE
Mark Justice 911/Communications Dispatcher 32 YEARS OF SERVICE Mark Justice served the Township for 32 years in the Dispatch Center before his March 31 retirement. His efforts were critical in coordinating first responder efforts for decades. Thank you, Dispatcher Justice!
Jeffrey Moore Firefighter/Paramedic 26 YEARS OF SERVICE
After nearly 24 years of service, we celebrate the retirement of Jeff McElwain. Jeff played an important role in maintaining Township facilities and supporting day-to-day operations. We sincerely thank Jeff for his long-standing dedication and the care he brought to his work. Congrats on your welldeserved retirement!
Jeffrey Moore, a third-generation firefighter with 26 years of dedicated service to our community, retired this past spring. Jeff has been an advocate for his fellow firefighters, serving in roles with IAFF Local 3518, including serving as President for over 20 years. His life’s passion has been ensuring every firefighter is treated fairly. He will be remembered for his camaraderie, dedication and tenacity.
Mike Lutz
Dave Doerger
Systems Administrator 29 YEARS OF SERVICE
Firefighter/Paramedic 27 YEARS OF SERVICE
Mike Lutz called it a career after 29 years of dedicated service. Mike began with the Township in 1997 as a 911/Communications Officer before transitioning to the Information Technology Division, where he served as a Systems Administrator. Throughout his career, Mike played an important role in supporting Township operations and helped keep critical systems running smoothly.
Thank you to Dave Doerger for his 27 years of service as a firefighter/ paramedic with West Chester Fire Department. Last year, he led CPR classes and ensured the department taught twice as many sessions as in 2024. He will continue to support the Fire Department part time as a Community Risk Reduction Specialist, so residents continue to benefit from his expertise.
Mike Swanson
Lt. Garry Zimmer
PT Firefighter/Paramedic 18 YEARS OF SERVICE
Fire Department Lieutenant 27 YEARS OF SERVICE
After nearly 18 years of service, Firefighter/EMT Mike Swanson has retired. Mike joined the West Chester Fire Department in November 2008 and served throughout all five stations, primarily at Station 74. He also worked with the Miami Valley Healthcare Transport Team and played an important role in the IAFF’s annual memorial golf outing.
We celebrate the retirement of Lieutenant Garry Zimmer. With more than 27 years of distinguished service to West Chester, Lt. Zimmer left an enduring legacy. Part of that legacy is his son, Noah, now a second-generation firefighter. Thank you to you and your family for your service to our community. West Chester Connect | 67
FACTS
ABOUT
FLOCK How Police Use ALPR Technology & Protect Privacy
Flock cameras are a type of automated license plate reader (ALPR) camera. They capture a still image of a vehicle and its license plate, along with date, time, and camera location. Police may use the information to identify a vehicle of interest in a crime, locate missing persons, or connect criminal activity across different locations or jurisdictions. Flock cameras do not use facial recognition. The cameras do not identify the race or gender of anyone inside the vehicle; they only detect license plates and vehicle color, make and model. West Chester does not allow its cameras to be used for any immigration enforcement. The data captured by Flock cameras is only used for law enforcement. It is not shared with any third party. These images are stored on a secure, government-compliant server and retained for 30 days, unless they are used for an ongoing investigation. Flock cameras are a highly-effective tool for law enforcement, helping to solve crimes that may otherwise go unsolved. Since 2022, West Chester has used Flock cameras to successfully investigate crimes such as hit-and-run accidents, burglaries, and missing persons. As with all technology, the use of Flock cameras must comply with the law and be governed by clear policies. West Chester conducts monthly audits of all Flock camera usage and has stringent policies in place to ensure compliance.
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Police Disrupt Organized Burglary Groups LEARN HOW TO PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY, YOUR FAMILY & YOUR COMMUNITY
In the past five years, the West Chester Police Department has seen an increase in organized criminal activity and burglary groups operating in the Township. These groups, commonly referred to as South American Theft Groups, have targeted local homeowners and business owners. Unlike crimes of opportunity, these burglaries are often carefully planned. Suspects may identify victims through their businesses, follow them home, study their routines, and place hidden cameras near their properties. They have also used disguises, multiple vehicles, temporary lodging, and equipment designed to interfere with security systems. West Chester Police are adapting to this growing threat — using regional partnerships, conducting proactive investigations, and leveraging modern technology such as automated license plate reader (ALPR) cameras. These efforts helped officers identify suspects and led to multiple arrests. Alert citizens often play a critical role in these investigations. Residents should never hesitate to report something that seems suspicious. Call the police non-emergency line at 513-777-2231, or call 911 for a crime in progress or an emergency.
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These investigations show what trained officers with modern investigative tools can accomplish. But protecting our community is a shared responsibility. If you see something suspicious, please report it. You can help prevent the next crime.” – Lee Wong, Trustee
Home Security e v ro p Im to s ip T 1
Regularly inspect your yard, porch, fences, and outdoor décor. Keep shrubs, trees, and high grass trimmed to reduce hiding places.
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Use motion-sensor lighting, exterior cameras, and doorbell cameras as part of a layered security plan.
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Tell trusted neighbors when you will be away and your home will be unoccupied. Ask them to report anything unusual.
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Avoid keeping large amounts of cash or easily portable valuables in the home when possible.
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If you find a suspicious device, do not touch or move it. It may be evidence.
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Do not confront suspicious people. They could be armed or dangerous. Call the police department.
Winter Market Moves to New Indoor Location SELECT SATURDAYS | 10 AM – 1 PM NOVEMBER – MARCH
2026 WINTER DATES
VOA Lodge @ VOA MetroPark, 7850 VOA Park Drive Shop local all winter long at the West Chester Farmers Market! Browse fresh foods, baked goods, and handcrafted items from local farmers and artisans inside the warm and welcoming VOA Lodge. The indoor market will be held select Saturdays from November through March at the VOA Lodge in Voice of America MetroPark. Enter off Cox Road. * A special Holiday Market will be held Dec. 12, 12 - 4 p.m.
November 7, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. November 14, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. November 21, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. December 5, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. December 12, 12 - 4 p.m.* December 19, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. January 9, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. January 23, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. February 13, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. February 27, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. March 13, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. March 27, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.
BUTLER TECH BIOSCIENCE EXPANDS TRAINING THE NEXT GENERATION OF HEALTHCARE WORKERS Butler Tech celebrated the opening of its new $12.1 million Bioscience Center expansion in West Chester Township on April 13. The expansion helps address the growing need for trained healthcare professionals across southwest Ohio. Since opening in 2015, the Bioscience Center has provided students with hands-on training, industry credentials, and connections to local employers.
The two-story addition nearly doubles the facility’s classroom and laboratory space, allowing more students to pursue nursing, healthcare, and bioscience careers. The project represents an important investment in education, workforce development, and the continued growth of the healthcare industry along the I-75 corridor.
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T S E F N I K P M U THE GREAT P PM @ KEEHNER PARK -6
3, 2 R E B O T C O , Y A SATURD
Petting Zoo Lambs, chickens, goats – oh my! Spend time with feathered and furry friends.
Hay Rides Enjoy a relaxing hay ride through the trees on a horse-drawn wagon.
Touch-A-Truck Climb inside an ambulance, fire truck, police car, and construction vehicles. Meet the people who keep the Township running!
Trick-or-Treat Trail Stroll through the forest and find some treats, or maybe some not-so-spooky tricks! 10| West 9 | WestChester ChesterConnect Connect
C3 Santa Trot Returns DON’T MISS THIS FESTIVE 5K!
Date: Saturday, Dec. 12 Time: 12 – 2 p.m. Where: Field House @ VOA MetroPark 7850 VOA Park Drive Ready to run, walk or dash into the holiday spirit? Join C3 for the 3rd Annual Santa Trot 5K, where runners, walkers, families, and holiday enthusiasts come together for an afternoon filled with Christmas cheer. The Santa Trot includes timed and untimed 5K events, a timed one-mile kids run, and the Little Elf Run. Scan the QR code to register and select the race that is right for you.
Holiday Market
SHOP. SIP. STROLL.
Date: Saturday, Dec. 12 Time: 12 – 4 p.m. Where: VOA Lodge @ VOA MetroPark 7850 VOA Park Drive West Chester will host a festive Holiday Market. Shop local food vendors and artisans while enjoying seasonal, family-friendly activities such as: •
Meet Santa and receive a free Polaroid photo.
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Participate in a fun art & craft activity with Fitton Center for Creative Arts.
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Listen to holiday story time and write letters to Santa with the MidPointe Library.
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Enjoy free non-alcoholic drinks & holiday giveaways.
Admission is free. Stop by, support local businesses, and celebrate the season in West Chester!
STEP BACK IN TIME AT
Pioneer Christmas Date: Sunday, Dec. 13 Time: 12 – 4 p.m. Where: Keehner Park Log Cabin 7411 Barret Road
Experience the warmth and charm of an old-fashioned holiday during Pioneer Christmas. The historic cabin will be decorated inside and out, with keepsake ornaments from past visitors hanging on a live Christmas tree. Families can meet Santa dressed in 1800s attire, take photos, and discover what Christmas may have been like for pioneers living in a one-room cabin in the woods. Enjoy cookies and candy canes, and bask in the glow of a crackling fireplace.
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BOARD OF TRUSTEES 9113 Cincinnati-Dayton Road West Chester, Ohio 45069-3840
PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID CINCINNATI OH PERMIT #215
**********ECRWSS********** LOCAL POSTAL CUSTOMER
General 513-777-5900 Ann Becker
Lee Wong
Community Development 513-777-4214 Community Services 513-777-6145
Amanda Ortiz
Bruce Jones
Fire Department & EMS (Non-Emergency) 513-777-1133 Police Department (Non-Emergency) 513-777-2231 westchesteroh.org
Lisa Brown