The Three Rivers News Dispatch issued its first edition on August 17, 2021. Since then, it has reported on area events and government meetings in North Bend, Addyston, Cleves, and Miami Township. Our subscriptions are free, and the number of registered subscribers has grown to over 2400. The TRND does not accepts no advertising fees. We encourage local businesses to submit advertisements by email.

July 22, 2025

In This Edition of the Three Rivers News Dispatch

July 21 -July 31. , 2025

PLEASE SUPPORT OSER-ROTH & FRIENDS THIS SATURDAY

"Protecting What Matters: Cleves Officials Vote to Advance 4.5 Mil Public Safety Levy for Safety to Safeguard Residents

Cleves Mayor's Official Response to WCPO I-Team Report

Cleves Board of Zoning Appeals Is Back In Action

Cleves Safety Commttee Approves Safety Measures on Scott Street, Colebrry Ct, and Intersections of Westgate and Scott

Robison & Blanton Debate Sparked by Queen of Hearts Fundraiser

Resident: "There is No Teeth to Township Noise Ordinance

Trustees Approve Resolution of Necessity and Replacement Levy for General Fund

Trustees Approve One Digital for HR Services

Miami Township Trustees Clash Over Campaign Attire at Public Events

Jordan Road Residents Voice Frustration Over Waterline Delays

Trustees Pitch Big Plans for West Park Ball DiamondTurf Revamp

Progress Continues on West Park Improvements Despite Regulatory Hurdles

PUBLIC NOTICES-MEETINGS- Change Every Edition

COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS

The Complete Miami Township Senior Newsletter for July 2025 is included in this Edition.

This Week at the Miami Township Library Branch- All New Events

Cleves and Area Businesses- Shop Local

Disclosure Statement: The Three Rivers News Dispatch is written and operated by Chuck Birkholtz. He was elected the Mayor of Cleves in 2023. Subscribers to the Three Rivers News Dispatch are advised to look at each article for possible bias. Letters to the editor can be sent to ThreeRiversNewsDispact@proton.me

"Protecting What Matters: Cleves Officials Vote to Advance 4.5 Mil Public Safety Levy to Safeguard Residents

CLEVES, OH — The Village Council has taken a critical step forward in its effort to secure long-term funding for police and fire services, voting to proceed with placing a 4.5 mill public safety levy on the November ballot.

At the council meeting, Resolution 11-2025—a resolution to proceed with submitting the levy to voters—was introduced along with the auditor’s certification. The legislation would authorize a five-year additional tax in excess of the 10-mill limitation under Ohio Revised Code Sections 5705.19 and 5705.25.

Resident Engagement and Council Commentary

With only one resident in attendance, council members took the opportunity to clarify misconceptions circulating in the community. In particular, concerns about the levy creating a surplus were addressed directly.

Councilmember Linda Bolton stated, “Even after five years, we will be drawing from the General Fund to subsidize both the police and fire contracts. This request is not creating a surplus.” Fellow members echoed the sentiment, noting projected cost increases—including a 5% annual increase in the fire contract and an anticipated uptick in the sheriff’s contract.

At the July 9, 2025, Council meeting, Bolton explained that the Village has been supplementing its police and fire service contracts with $300,000 annually from the General Fund, as existing levies do not cover the costs. She emphasized that the proposed safety levy is intended to fund essential services, including police and fire, which are the primary local tax responsibilities for residents.

Officials emphasized that while the levy would temporarily increase available funding, long-term projections indicate that expenditures will surpass revenue by 2029, potentially requiring a $80,000 General Fund subsidy by the fifth year.

“All of these are projections,” noted one council member. “We don’t know what the future holds, but we do know this levy is critical for maintaining essential services.”

Vice Mayor Geri Meister echoed Bolton's comments by stating, "The sole purpose of the proposed public safety levy is to fund contracts with the Miami Township Fire Department and the Hamilton County Sheriff's Department. She reinforced that the generated funds are dedicated strictly to safety services, not to any other village expenditures, clearing up potential confusion within the general public.

The council voted to suspend procedural rules and proceed with Resolution 11-2025 for a final vote. The motion to approve Resolution 11-2025 was approved 5-0. Village Clerk Penny Williams will deliver both Resolutions 10-2025 and Resolution 11-2025 to the Board of Elections. The BOE will assign Cleves' 4.5 million Public Safety levy, which will generate $375,027, an issue number, and create the ballot language for the November 4, 2025, general election ballot.

If voters approve, the levy will help protect crucial public safety services amid rising costs and limited financial flexibility. The meeting recording can be seen by clicking on the arrow below:

Cleves Mayor's Official Response to WCPO I-Team Report

To the Citizens of Cleves,

At the July 9, 2025, Village Council Meeting, I addressed the WCPO I-Team investigation concerning our local government. As both your Mayor and the editor of the Three Rivers News Dispatch, I made the conscious decision not to publish a written article on the matter, opting instead to make the complete report available to you directly.

I encourage you to watch the Channel 9 report first and then review my response during the Council Meeting. Transparency matters—and I trust you to review the information and reach your informed conclusion.

Sincerely, Chuck Birkholtz Mayor, Village of Cleves

Cleves Board of Zoning Appeals Back in Action

Cleves,- July 8. A vital institution aiding in shaping a more responsive, transparent, and community-centered approach to local governance, the Board of Zoning Appeals heard a resident's plea for more time to remove furniture and other items from his back and side yards.

On July 8, the same resident returned, and Code Official Ed Lindenschmidt reported to the Board of Zoning Appeals that the resident was now in compliance. The Board decided unanimously to suspend the fines and court costs. In this case, both the Village and resident found a WIN-WIN solution.

In the second hearing, A Laurelwood resident requested a variance from the Zoning regulations to place a swimming pool in the side yard. Two hearings were held, and testimony would have been taken if any residents had objected. There were no objections and the variance was approved unanimously.

The Board of Zoning Appeals: Balancing Growth and Community Values

The Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA) plays a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of Cleves’ zoning regulations while allowing flexibility for residents and businesses. This administrative body hears appeals related to zoning decisions, including requests for variances or exceptions to land use regulations.

Key Functions of the BZA:

• Reviews appeals when building permits are denied due to zoning restrictions

• Considers requests for variances based on unique property conditions

• Ensures that zoning decisions align with the village’s long-term development goals

• Provides a public forum for residents to voice concerns or support for proposed changes

By offering a structured and impartial process, the BZA helps ensure that development in Cleves respects both individual property rights and the broader community vision.

We have attached the text from the Cleves Zoning Manual outlining the composition of the Board of Zoning Appeals.

Cleves Safety Committee Approves Safety Measures for Scott Street, Coleberry Ct, and Westgate Intersection

Vice Mayor Geri Meister reported to the Cleves Village Council that No Parking Signs were installed to allow residents driving up Scott Street to have a clear view. The car shown in the picture was placed there to illustrate what drivers see as they come up the hill when cars are parked in that location.

The Safety Committee also approved no-parking signage at the top of Coleberry Court. Children playing signs were also installed there because there are small children who have nearly been hit as cars run the stop sign there regularly.The picture below shows the new no parking sign that has moved parking further back on Coleberry Court.

A request from residents to install a mirror at the intersection of Westgate Drive and Scott Street was also approved to eliminate the blind spot for drivers at the intersection. See below as two Cleves maintenance employees install the mirror today.

Robison & Blanton Debate Sparked by Queen of Hearts Fundraiser

At a recent Miami Township meeting, what began as a brief administrative update quickly escalated into a tense exchange between Trustee Mike Robison and Board of Trustees President Dan Blanton over the legality and oversight of a Queen of Hearts fundraiser that took place during the July summer concert.

Trustee Robison, who helps coordinate the summer concert series, expressed frustration about being blindsided by the appearance of the Queen of Hearts game at the last event. "I was surprised the night of the concert when the Queen of Hearts showed up," Robison stated. "We could have vetted this ahead of time if we knew they were coming. It was an unnecessary liability."

According to the discussion, there were questions raised about whether the Queen of Hearts game — a popular game of chance — was being run legally. The issue centered on whether the game was operating as a legal raffle or crossing into the territory of unlicensed gambling.

Keri Robers, Events Manager, was tasked by Township Administrator Jim Brett with investigating the issue after concerns surfaced and contacted the Ohio Attorney General's Office. The answer she received was clear: the Queen of Hearts game can only be conducted if 100% of the money collected is either paid out to a winner or rolled over to the next game. Any game where the organizers retain funds as a fundraiser requires a charitable gaming license.

“The Attorney General’s office told us that Queen of Hearts cannot be used as a fundraiser unless there’s a license in place,” Keri said, “We need to make sure the school boosters have that license before the next event.”

President Dan Blanton acknowledged the oversight, but pushed back against the implication that decisions were made without appropriate checks. "They asked to come and I called Trustee Vollrath and he didn't have a problem with it because the Boosters said it was initiated as a nonprofit."

The disagreement intensified when Robison questioned how Blanton and Vollrath could have approved the Queen of Hearts booth without consulting him, the Township Administrator, or Ms. Robers, since they are the committee responsible for planning the Summer Concerts. "If the board is going to make decisions without my knowledge or the administrator's, I'd respectfully ask that we're told ahead of time,"

The discussion underscored a broader concern about communication within the Board of Trustees and potential liability for Miami Township. Robison reminded the board that decisions involving alcohol permits and gaming activities carry important compliance requirements.

Click the arrow below to watch a more complete understanding of the debate and issues discussed about the Queen of Hearts Game.

Resident "There is No Teeth to Township Noise Ordinance"

MIAMI OWNSHIP, JULY 16—Tom Reynolds, a longtime resident of 7776 Rumble Dr., has been grappling with a persistent noise issue emanating from his neighbor's property. For over four years, Reynolds and his family have endured loud parties, karaoke sessions, and other disturbances that have disrupted their peace and quiet. Despite numerous calls to the police, the problem persists, highlighting a significant gap in the current noise ordinance.

Background

Reynolds, who has lived in his home for 35 years, expressed his frustration at a recent community meeting. "I want to thank the police for their efforts over the last 4 1/2 years. You guys are the only thing keeping me sane," he said. However, he emphasized that the current noise ordinance lacks the necessary provisions to address the issue effectively.

Experience and Impact

Reynolds described the impact of the noise on his family's quality of life. "The noise is coming from 40 feet away in a garage that was converted into a bar. There's a bar there, three big screen TVs, and they start their parties late at night, sometimes as late as 1:30 in the morning," he explained. The constant noise has made it difficult for the family to sleep and enjoy their home.

Reynolds pointed out that the current noise ordinance, which primarily addresses noise from cars, is insufficient for addressing residential disturbances. "We have a noise ordinance for cars because a car comes into the neighborhood and makes noise. But what we have is a bar without wheels that stays there all night," he said. He urged the community and local authorities to revise the ordinance to include residential noise issues.

During the meeting, President Dan Blanton questioned why the Hamilton County Sheriff's Office could not address the noise complaints more effectively. "I know there are loud noise complaints dispatched all the time. Why can't deputies address this without a loud noise resolution?" The response from the Hamilton County Sheriff's Department highlighted the limitations of the current ordinance, which leaves such matters as civil issues rather than criminal ones.

Reynolds has been proactive in seeking a solution. He has been in discussions with Township Administrator Jim Brett, and Brett has been in contact with Township attorney Alex Ewing to draft a new ordinance that would better address the noise issues. "There's no sense in passing something that won't at least address what we're dealing with," he said. The community is hopeful that these efforts will lead to a more effective noise ordinance, restoring peace and quiet to their neighborhood.

Tom Reynolds' plea for a stronger noise ordinance underscores the need for local authorities to address residential noise issues more effectively. As the community works together to revise the ordinance, residents like Reynolds hope for a resolution that will allow them to enjoy their homes without the constant disruption of loud parties and other disturbances.

For a more thorough understanding of Mr Reynold's concerns, you can watch a 3-minute video of his statements by clicking on the arrow.

Trustees Approve Resolution of Necessity and Replacement Levy for General Fund-

MIAMI TOWNSHIP-JULY 16 In a recent township meeting, Miami Township Administrator Jim Brett led a discussion about the potential renewal or replacement of the general fund levy. After individual discussions, it was decided that pursuing a renewal this year might not be the best course of action. However, the board requested the auditor to provide rates for both a new renewal and a replacement levy, so that they have the necessary information for next year.

Trustee Mike Robison emphatically stated his opposition to placing a ballot issue on the November ballot.

The current levy does not expire until the end of next year, giving the township ample time to make a decision. The State House recently passed a budget bill that prohibits replacement levies after January 1, 2026, but there is hope that this decision will be revisited, as it is seen as unfair to residents.

The board has already dealt with this issue in the past with the auditor's office, and resolutions for both the renewal and replacement have been corrected and approved. The auditor needs to have the information for 10 days, and if the township decides to put a levy on the November ballot, it must be done before August 7th.

The board approved resolutions 2025-14 and 2025-15, which declare the necessity of levying taxes for the purpose of providing current expenses for Miami Township. Resolution 2025-14 pertains to a replacement levy of the .46 mill levy for five years in the unincorporated areas of the township, while resolution 2025-15 pertains to a renewal levy of .46 mills for five years in the incorporated area of Miami Township.

The replacement levy would be based on new property values, as the state legislature has prohibited using old valuations for replacement levies after January 2026. The board can always lower the amount to bring in the same revenue, ensuring it does not cost residents more. There is also the option to ask for more funds for the general fund, but this is not currently being considered.

The state legislature may revisit the decision on renewals, and the township is hopeful for a favorable outcome. For now, the board is focused on obtaining the necessary information and making informed decisions for the future of Miami Township.

Trustees Approve One Digital for HR Services

MIAMI TOWNSHIP - July 16- The Miami Township Trustees also discussed the approval of a contract with One Digital for HR services. The proposed agreement would involve One Digital providing HR services for eight hours per month at a monthly rate of $1,200. The board members expressed their support for engaging One Digital to assist with HR functions, citing the cost-effectiveness of this approach compared to hiring a full-time employee with benefits.

However, there was a notable disagreement between Trustee Robison and Trustee Blanton regarding the term of the contract. Robison was in favor of approving the agreement on a month-to-month basis, allowing for flexibility to increase, decrease, or terminate the contract as needed. Blanton preferred setting a fixed term until the end of December to ensure that the necessary HR policies and procedures would be completed by year's end.

Blanton emphasized the importance of having a clear timeline and expectations for One Digital, suggesting that the contract should be approved by the end of December, with the possibility of an extension if needed. Robison countered, stating that a month-to-month contract would motivate One Digital to complete the work as quickly as possible and prove their effectiveness.

Ultimately, the board voted 2-1 to approve the contract with One Digital for HR services, with the understanding that the contract would be reviewed and potentially extended based on the progress made by the end of the year.

Miami Township Trustees Clash Over Campaign Attire at Public Events

MIAMI TOWNSHIP- July 16. In the July 16th township meeting, Trustees Mike Robison and President Dan Blanton engaged in a lively debate over whether campaign-themed clothing and materials are appropriate at official township-sponsored events.

The disagreement stemmed from complaints received after a recent summer concert, where some individuals were seen wearing political T-shirts and handing out materials at what was identified as the American Legion beer booth. Trustee Robison suggested creating a policy to ban the display or distribution of campaign apparel and literature at township-sponsored events.

“I just think it’s inappropriate,” Robison said. “Residents told me they found it confusing and in poor taste to see elected officials mingling in campaign gear during official events.”

Trustee Blanton responded strongly, questioning whether such restrictions could be enforced or if they would be fair. “You can’t tell people what they can wear,” he said. “Being present in the community is different from actively campaigning—and a shirt doesn’t change that.”

The disagreement revealed deeper concerns about the growing confusion between civic duties and political messaging. Robison argued that visible campaign branding at township events compromises the neutrality of the gatherings and causes confusion among attendees. Blanton, however, contended that residents have the right to express themselves and that trustees should be able to interact with residents openly, regardless of their attire.

The Board of Trustees did not vote on the policy to ban campaign apparel promoted by Trustee Robison.

In the meantime, trustees urged residents to continue sharing feedback on how public events should be managed to ensure they are inclusive and professional.

For a more complete view of the debate please click on the arrow below:

Jordan Road Residents Voice Frustration Over Waterline Delays

MIAMI TOWNSHIP- July 16 Tempers flared and frustrations boiled over during a recent public meeting as residents of Jordan Road pressed local officials for answers on the long-delayed waterline project many say has been “years in the making” but shows little sign of physical progress.

At the heart of the issue is the long-promised extension of a public water main, which residents argue is critical to development, homebuilding, and quality of life in the area.

“Seriously, I could have done this myself with a shovel by now,” said Jordan Road resident Mr. Oakes during public comment. Another resident told the Miami Township Administrator, Jim Brett, “You told me the water was going to be in next week—well, it’s been a whole lot of next weeks.”

Officials explained that much of the delay has stemmed from complex jurisdictional hurdles, including coordination with Cincinnati Water Works and Hamilton County Planning & Development, as well as engineering and survey work tied to project phases.

“This section of Jordan Road was originally under Cincinnati Water Works’ territory,” one official stated. “The Township had to work with multiple agencies just to get approval for Cleves to take over water service responsibilities.”

Even so, residents say they’ve seen little evidence of progress. Barry Moerlein took the podium and said, “Someone started surveying this project three months ago. You can still see the stakes and tall grass where they stopped,” said one resident. “To the human eye, this project is dead in the water."

Jim Brett acknowledged the visible stagnation but insisted work is happening behind the scenes. The project is divided into two phases: Phase 1 will connect Jordan Road to the existing Cleves water line near West Park and extend up to the bridge; Phase 2 will complete the line to reach remaining properties and will be added as a project addendum.

The project is being managed by JS Held, with Abercrombie & Associates responsible for engineering and surveying. But even that division of responsibilities has added to the confusion.

“Can someone explain how we’re putting a job out to bid when it’s not fully surveyed?” Moerlein asked, noting that key sections near his property had not been marked. “I had plans to build a home for my son down there,but we scrapped the idea. Who wants to spend thousands on a cistern when the main is supposedly coming—but never gets here?”

Moerlein added that his son has since purchased a home elsewhere and that he has lost confidence in the project timeline himself.

Officials reassured residents that the waterline project is still moving forward, with recent board approvals in May and June, and stated that bidding will occur once the final engineering components are completed.

“We understand how it looks from the outside,” said Administrator Brett. “But we’re working to get this across the finish line.”

Still, some residents were unconvinced.

“I’ll believe it when I see it,” said one, echoing a sentiment shared by several in attendance."

Subscribers can listen to two residents from Jordan Road address the Trustees by clicking the arrown below.

Trustees Pitch Big Plans for West Park Ball DiamondTurf Revamp

MIAMI TOWNSHIP, OH-JULY 16 — Township officials continue to evaluate a significant upgrade to West Park’s baseball field, with the possibility of converting the current natural grass infield into synthetic turf. At a recent public meeting, board members discussed the initial bid received from ForeverLawn, a company specializing in artificial turf installations.

The proposal, which includes the installation of turf with proper underdrain systems, outlines two options for the park's infield:

Option 1: Turf replacement of the existing grass infield area, including the foul territory — Estimated cost: $283,624.
Option 2: A full turf conversion of the entire infield, including the current dirt base extending to the outfield line — Estimated cost: $450,583.

"We’re just trying to get an idea of what kind of numbers we’re looking at," Administrator Brett said. "These figures at least give us a ballpark starting point."

Samples of the turf material were made available at the meeting, showcasing both green and brown synthetic surfaces. The brown version is intended to mimic the traditional dirt areas of the infield, an option that surprised some attendees. “I didn’t even realize they had a brown surface available for that part of the field,” Brett noted.

While ForeverLawn has submitted its proposal, the Township is still awaiting a bid from Playground Equipment Services — the second vendor being considered for the project. “I’m a little surprised,” Brett said. “They were actually on site first, and we’ve asked them a few times to send over their numbers.”

Efforts are being redoubled to get the Playground Equipment Services quote. “I contacted them twice this week and asked for a ballpark estimate, even something close, just so we can get a comparison,” said Brett..

The cost of the turf conversion could be offset through a partnership with the Three Rivers Local School District, which uses the field regularly. "We need to talk with our partners and see if the school can help chip in on this. But now we at least have a starting number," Brett said.

The board emphasized that this is only the preliminary stage and no decisions have been made yet. Once all bids are in, further discussions and potential funding strategies will be considered.

Editor's Note: While it was not mentioned in the meeting, generally, infrastructure improvements are paid for from TIFF money rather than taxpayer funds from the General Fund.

Subscribers can watch the discussion about the Turf at West Park by clicking the arrowbelow:

Progress Continues on West Park Improvements Despite Regulatory Hurdles

Despite navigating federal floodplain regulations and rising costs, the Village’s park improvement project stays on schedule, with construction expected to start this fall. Township officials confirmed during a recent meeting that compact gravel will be used as a temporary base for new trail sections in the park, allowing work to proceed while environmental permits are finalized.

West park, which has experienced limited flooding compared to surrounding areas due to more than 10 feet of engineered fill beneath it, was scrutinized after a spring flood reached rooftop levels. However, officials noted that the impact on the site was minimal. “We didn’t see much water actually enter the project area,” President Dan Blanton, explained. “This area’s already been built up over time, and that’s one reason it doesn’t flood much." "But FEMA still has rules, and we’re obligated to follow them,” added Miami Township Administrator James Brett.

At the core of the permitting issue is a requirement for an environmental study, which might cost between $35,000 and $40,000. Officials expressed frustration over the cost, especially since it exceeds the expense of some trail sections. “I agree with making the park ADA accessible and compliant,” said another member. “But when the study costs more than the trail itself, it just doesn’t sit right.”

The proposed solution? We can go ahead with compact gravel instead of mulch. Unlike mulch—which can wash away in heavy rains—gravel provides a firm base for installing ADA-friendly asphalt in the long run. “We can still go back and apply for the permit while laying the groundwork—literally—with gravel,” said the Miami Township Administrator Jim Brett. “It won’t delay anything, and we won’t be wasting money replacing washed-out mulch.”

The total project, estimated at $3 to $3.25 million, is scheduled to go out for bids by early August after a final engineering review with project consultant Mark Rosenberger on July 29. If bids are awarded promptly and weather cooperates, earthwork could start as early as mid-September. However, officials acknowledged that if conditions don’t allow substantial progress before winter, some work may be paused to avoid the unfinished state seen in previous projects. “We learned from what happened with the Pat Beck & June Rininger Memorial Park,” said a board member. “We don’t want a repeat of that.”

Meanwhile, Township leaders are also exploring whether nearby parks with similar projects have already completed the required study—potentially sharing data and reducing costs. Despite the red tape, residents can expect visible progress soon. “This is about creating a park that everyone in the community can enjoy,” said President Dan Blanton “We’re moving forward, and we’re doing it the right way.”