Pictured from left to right:

• Chad Shaffer, Government & Community Relations for Duke Energy

• Bonnie Batchler, Clermont County Commissioner

• Alicia Morlatt, Executive Director, Clermont Metropolitan Housing Authority

Duke Energy has once again stepped up to support homeless veterans in Clermont County by awarding another $10,000 grant to the Veterans Village project. This gesture underscores Duke Energy’s commitment to community welfare and propels the ongoing efforts to provide a sanctuary for those who have bravely served our nation.

With this latest grant, the company reaffirms its dedication to improving the lives of veterans and their families. The funds will be instrumental in covering essential planning fees, blueprints, and renderings, thereby facilitating the realization of the Veterans Village.

“These funds really help to offset the cost as the development begins to take shape right here on this plot of land,” stated Chad Shaffer, Government & Community Relations for Duke Energy. “No veteran deserves to be without a place to call home. Having a village with support services on-site not only helps the veterans to heal but also helps them to thrive.”

The first $10,000 grant from Duke Energy in 2023 helped with the early phase costs to get the idea off the ground, including planning and advocacy.

The Veterans Village project, situated in Felicity, spans nearly ten acres and holds the promise of a brighter future for homeless veterans. With plans for 28 homes, including 22 one-bedroom and six two-bedroom residences, the village aims to address the pressing need for shelter among veterans in Clermont County. The units will be fully furnished, have broadband access, and provide greenspace to ensure the veterans have the comfort and stability they deserve.

The plight of homeless veterans is a sobering reality, with over 900 individuals in Clermont County alone in need of assistance. Recognizing the gravity of the situation, Duke Energy, Clermont County, the Veterans Administration, and the Clermont Metropolitan Housing Authority (CMHA) have partnered to support those who have served their country with honor and valor.

The Veterans Village is a collaborative project between the Clermont County Board of Commissioners, the Veterans Administration, and the Clermont Metropolitan Housing Authority (CMHA). The $6 million project is set to open in spring 2026. The initiative is backed by $1 million in federal HUD HOME funds, with additional requests for funding from the State of Ohio Budget for 2024-2025.

“The veterans served us. It’s now time for us to step up and serve them,” said Bonnie Batchler, Clermont County Commissioner. “We don’t want to see a homeless veteran living on the streets or in the parks in Clermont County.”

The Clermont County Park District recently celebrated the grand opening of the Ten Mile Creek Nature Preserve, marking a significant addition to the local park system. Clermont County commissioners attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony, introducing the community to the natural beauty and serene environment of the new preserve.

Located at 711 Ten Mile Road in New Richmond, Ohio, the 31-acre preserve features a variety of natural landscapes. Acquired in 2014, the park includes a gravel loop trail that meanders through peaceful meadows, wetlands, and alongside Ten Mile Creek. Visitors can now enjoy the tranquility of the wet meadows, observe wildlife around the pond, and appreciate the picturesque surroundings.

The grand opening event was well-attended, with community members exploring the new space. Park staff offered guided walks along the trail, providing insights into the local flora and fauna. The trail’s design caters to different preferences, with options for shorter and longer loops.

In addition to its natural features, the Ten Mile Creek Nature Preserve boasts new amenities, including a parking lot, picnic benches, and wildlife observation areas. A pond overflow with a bridge crossing adds to the park’s charm, making it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts and families alike.

The successful grand opening highlighted the community’s enthusiasm for outdoor recreation and conservation. The Ten Mile Creek Nature Preserve is set to become a beloved spot for residents and visitors, offering a peaceful retreat and opportunities for wildlife observation.

The Clermont County Park District encourages everyone to visit the Ten Mile Creek Nature Preserve and experience its natural beauty firsthand. This new gem in Clermont County promises to be a valuable addition to the area’s recreational and environmental resources.

Learn more about all our parks: Clermont County Parks

The Ohio River Sweep is an annual, volunteer cleanup that extends the entire 3,000-mile length of the Ohio River. Volunteers from the six states bordering the Ohio River remove litter at multiple locations along the river and many of its tributaries. In the past, volunteers in Clermont County have made tremendous progress cleaning their section along the Ohio River.

For more information: OEQ Website

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Office of Public Information | 513.732.7657 | dscheibenzuber@clermontcountyohio.gov

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