Newest Commissioner Eddie Place expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to be part of the Washington County Commission. (Photo by Amber Phipps)

The Marietta Chamber of Commerce hosted a Legislative Luncheon at the Marietta Country Club on Tuesday.

During the event, registered attendees enjoyed a meal accompanied by introductions and updates from the Washington County Commissioners in regards to the county.

Newest commissioner Eddie Place began the luncheon with a short speech about his personal background and why he made the decision to run for county commissioner.

“I’m very excited to see what we can bring here to Washington County and it’s very important to me,” he said.

Place comes from a background of plumbing, mechanics, and farming and stated that he brings something different to the table. With some past experience as a township trustee in Decatur Township, Place said he brings some common sense to the commission.

The Legislative Luncheon took place at the Marietta Country Club on Tuesday. (Photo by Amber Phipps)

After a brief introduction from Place, he handed the microphone to President Commissioner Charlie Schilling to discuss current issues and working updates.

“It’s good to make sure that we’re communicating, being open and transparent about some of the things we’re working on in our offices and all that goes with that,” said Schilling.

Schilling discussed the Devola Sanitary Sewer Improvements project which is roughly 90% finished with about 500 out of 565 homes completed. The project aimed to construct a new central sanitary sewer for the residences in Devola.

The project began in May 2022 and is expected to be completed in October.

The priority on the agenda is the Route 7 sewer upgrades which aim to provide necessary sewer developments so that businesses in the area have the opportunity to grow.

Eddie Place spoke briefly to the audience about his background and work experiences that provided him with the skills he needed for his position as Washington County Commission. (Photo by Amber Phipps)

Schilling stated that they’re currently working on an engineering plan and are in communication with state and federal legislatures.

The commission is working on collaborations with a high intensity drug task force which was initiated by the federal government.

“We’re assisting Sheriff (Mark) Warden right now and building that program out,” said Schilling. “We want to help the federal government understand what the sheriff’s struggles are and what they’re dealing with.”

Also discussed in previous commission meetings, there are plans for broadband expansion which will provide accessible internet and service for those in rural areas. The commission has been working with BroadbandOhio to establish a pilot program in Marietta to test and establish the required utilities.

Foster care and child services is an ongoing discussion that Schilling and the commission have been working to improve in terms of child safety and costs.

Registered guests enjoyed food and refreshments before the announcements from the commissioners. (Photo by Amber Phipps)

Schilling said they’re currently working closely with the state to secure cost reductions and improved foster care services for the county.

“There are programs out there and initiatives the state is starting to implement,” said Schilling. “It’s to not only keep the children in foster care closer to us but to make sure that they have loving homes.”

The luncheon concluded with an update on tourism and recreation in the area which included a $9.5 million grant from the Appalachian Community Grant Program. The city of Marietta also received a $1.25 million grant to construct a bike trail for the community.

After the announcements, audience members had the opportunity to meet Place, Schilling and fellow Commissioner James Booth.

Eddie Place thanked his fellow Washington County Commissioners as well as the community for their support. (Photo by Amber Phipps)

The banquet hall at the Marietta Country Club was packed with guests on Tuesday to meet the newest county commissioner. (Photo by Amber Phipps)