Ep 43 - "R.I.P Kipper"

Ohio State and Regional NewsOhio lawmakers have introduced a bill to make academic and financial comparisons between public and private schools more accessible to the taxpayers. Additionally, the state launched a new data dashboard to track chronic absenteeism. However, many districts are warning of looming property tax levies as they face a financial crisis caused by the expiration of federal pandemic relief funds and rising operational costs.Dayton City Development and ModernizationThe City of Dayton released two major reports on April 8, 2026, outlining a surge in neighborhood investment and internal system reforms.2025-2026 Development Update In 2025, the city leveraged $19.2 million in public funds to drive $387.7 million in private investment. Key highlights include:Greater Downtown: Completion of the $47 million North Arcade and $40 million Convention Center Phase 1. The $110 million Centre City Redevelopment is now active.West Dayton: Projects totaled $39.4 million, including the DuPont expansion and Germantown Crossing affordable housing. Over $100 million in new projects are underway.Northeast: Major industrial and health growth led by the $94 million Sierra Nevada Corp hangars and the $108 million Dayton Children’s Behavioral Health center.Southeast: Investment is expected to hit $142.6 million, anchored by the $110 million "Think Dayton" building at onMain.Permitting Modernization To support this growth, the city is overhauling its permitting process to eliminate backlogs. Reforms include same-day permit intake, digital plan reviews, and standardized fee structures. A full digital review portal is scheduled to launch in late 2026.Local Community NewsInfrastructure and Safety: East Third Street is slated for bike lane and pedestrian upgrades. Franklin recently managed a train derailment, while Lebanon installed a new all-way stop to curb accidents. In Brookville, authorities are investigating the cause of a sudden two-story building collapse.Business and Dining: 7 Brew Coffee is hiring for its drive-thru near UD, while El Toro Express and Einstein Bros. Bagels are expanding into Kettering and Beavercreek. Conversely, the beverage plant Refresco is closing its Carlisle facility in July, and the Pedal Wagon will not return to Dayton this season.Transportation and Tech: 19 local sites (including Meijer and Sheetz) were selected for new EV charging stations. In Miami Township, a new ordinance requires open-bed trucks to tarp their loads to prevent litter and debris.Public Service and Jobs: The Air Force Materiel Command is hosting a massive job fair at Wright State on May 6. In Englewood, the City Manager announced retirement after a 50-year career.Legal and Health: A medical malpractice lawsuit was filed in Centerville alleging a surgeon operated on the wrong knee. In Warren County, health officials warned residents after detecting a rabid bat.Community Highlights: Michelle Obama was spotted on a low-profile visit to Yellow Springs. The community is also mourning the death of Kipper the Wallaby, a beloved animal ambassador.