October 8, 2026, 9:00 AM, at 160 Island Road, Circleville. The public is welcome.
Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC)
The Pickaway County Local Emergency Planning Committee (LEPC) is established under the Emergency Planning and Community Right to Know Act, or EPCRA. This was passed as Title III of the Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act of 1986 (SARA Title III) on October 17, 1986.
Knowledge of chemicals in our community assists first responders in being prepared with the right equipment and methods to keep everyone safe. The LEPC collects information annually from local agencies that meet specific chemical requirements and thresholds. We use this information to enhance our preparedness and response through trainings, drills, and exercises.
Meetings are held quarterly. The Committee is made up of a diverse group of backgrounds from law enforcement, fire/EMS, agencies that meet reporting requirements, emergency management, healthcare, public health, engineering, critical infrastructure, schools, members of the population, and more.
Agendas and minutes
Each document opens in a reader with the full text and the original PDF. Earlier years are available from the EMA office — phone (740) 477-1165 or email ema@pickawaycountyohio.gov.
Full text of the approved minutes, provided so the content can be read with a screen reader. The PDF is the official record.
1. Call to Order / Introductions
The meeting was led by Steve Sabine. Call to Order occurred at 09:00am. The Pledge of Allegiance was said, followed by a moment of silence for military personnel serving and those who have given their lives.
Introductions were made around the room. A sign-in sheet representing those in attendance is attached.
2. Review & Approval of Previous Meeting Minutes
Director Nash sent the meeting minutes after the last meeting. Steve Sabine asked if there were any questions. There was no discussion.
Motion to approve
Chief Brian Thompson
Second
Chief Mark Adkins
Discussion
None
Result
Pass
3. Approval of LEPC Financial Report
Director Nash shared that the account has $26,384.79 in it. Director Nash shared that with the change in Fiscal Specialist at the County, it appears that the $15,000 encumbered for EMA services has already been transferred. There is still $15,000 listed as encumbered.
The funding needs to be spent down. Director Nash shared that there are several trainings coming that these funds will cover the match from other grants such as PUCO and HMEP.
Motion to approve the financial report
Ed Warner
Second
Chief Deputy Jimmy Brown
Discussion
None
Result
Pass
4. Reports
a. Spill Responses
Director Nash shared that there were seven spill responses since the last meeting. Two of them came in as larger amounts of fuel but upon further investigation, were only 1 or 2 gallons.
1/9/2026 — Fuel spill at US 23 & N River Rd. Called in as 120 gallons but later reduced to less than one gallon of fuel from a semi accident.
1/12/2026 — Fuel spill at OH 56 and Stonerock from a semi in a ditch. Initial report was 30 gallons but downgraded to 2 gallons.
1/29/2026 — Diesel spill at E Main Street and McCrea Avenue in Circleville due to an auto accident. A vehicle hit a Circleville plow truck dropping 50 gallons of diesel. Did not go into the storm drain due to the snow.
1/30/2026 — 500 gallons of lubricating oil spilled at Five Points Pike in Williamsport. The oil left the containment building but froze due to the frigid temperatures.
3/11/2026 — 120 gallons of diesel at Mouse Road due to a semi accident. Passenger saddle tank completely emptied into the field which was already saturated with rain. Driver transported but ok.
3/28/2026 — About 10,000 gallons of oil burned in fire at Smith-Hulse Rd. Initially called in as a cricket pump fire but ended up being the separator tanks and the electrical next to it.
3/29/2026 — About 24 gallons of diesel in the parking lot of Kroger, Circleville from a fuel tank that dropped on an employee’s truck.
All spills contained and mitigated.
b. Compliance
Tier II. Report deadline is now passed. There are a handful that have not reported yet but they are ones that usually do not. There are two new filers — Cardinal Health’s new site and the construction side of Arsenal 1.
Compliance Report. No new updates.
c. Training
Director Nash shared that there are several trainings coming up.
April 15th — Air Monitoring at Scioto Township Fire from 0900–1500.
May 21st — G-191 ICS/EOC Interface at Scioto Township Fire from 0800–1700.
June 3rd — Lithium Ion Battery & Solar Farm at Scioto Township Fire from 0900 to 1500 (both classes in one day).
Hazmat for Law Enforcement — July 16th at the EMA Office. There are two sessions, 0800 to 1200 and 1300 to 1700. You only need to attend one.
Additional trainings are in the queue as grants are applied for: a PUCO grant application for Hazmat Refresher for Transportation Emergencies, and an HMEP grant application for First Company, Vehicle and Equipment Extrication, and Rope Rescue.
The G-300 and G-400 classes scheduled for spring/summer were cancelled due to the DHS shutdown. The 191 class is still on as far as we know.
A PIO class is scheduled for late July but we only have 1 instructor. Waiting to see if there will be a second instructor.
Chief Thompson shared that the State Highway Patrol has a great PIO course that does not have a cost to it.
Chief Thompson also shared that he has several staff going to a rope rescue but may cancel it due to accreditation concerns. Ed Warner shared that CMC Rescue at Loveland Sims also has a class periodically.
5. LEPC Exercise
Steve Sabine shared that the Tabletop Exercise was conducted on February 12, 2026. The TTX was well attended and went well. The LEPC received word before the meeting that the SERC concurred with the findings of the exercise report. The LEPC passed all four deliverables. A copy of the letter can be found at the EMA office (as well as attached).
6. Old Business
No old business.
7. New Business
No new business.
8. Round Table Discussion
Mr. Dave Horning, Circleville Herald
Mr. Horning shared that he welcomes press releases. If anyone has any press releases or information to send him, please send it to news@circlevilleherald.com.
Scott Rice, ODOT
Mr. Rice shared that the camera signal for 752 and 23 was approved. It is currently out for bid. He shared that the camera signal for 104, 22, 56, and 316 were all nixed but they will continue to apply.
He also shared that the homeless camp at Legion Bridge has not been cleaned up yet. The City of Circleville and the Railroad are in the middle of some real estate decisions.
Brigitte Bouska, OEMA
Brigitte shared she is retiring May 29th. Travis Roach will be taking over June 1st until a replacement is named.
Ethan, PICCA
Ethan shared that PICCA is having a CarFit Event for Driver Safety for those 60+. The event is April 24th from 9–12 at the VFW.
Trevor Irwin, EPA
Mr. Irwin shared that there are only two EPA Responders out in the field right now.
9. Meeting Adjournment
Motion to adjourn
Chief Brian Thompson
Second
Tiffany Singer
Result
Pass
Adjourned
09:40
2026 meetings
January 8, 2026
April 9, 2026
July 9, 2026 — Breakfast and meeting at PPG, group discussion and tour to follow
October 8, 2026
LEPC Meeting Minutes — Thursday, October 9, 2025, 9:00 a.m.
Pickaway County Local Emergency Planning Committee · 160 Island Rd, Circleville, Ohio 43113
Full text of the approved minutes, provided so the content can be read with a screen reader. The PDF is the official record.
1. Call to Order / Introductions
Time: 9:09am.
2. Review & Approval of Previous Meeting Minutes
Motion to approve previous meeting minutes
Steve Sabine
Second
Chief Brian Thompson
Discussion
None
Result
Passed
3. Approval of LEPC Financial Report
Balance
Director Nash shared the current balance and account information for LEPC. There is currently $41,068.79 in the account with $32,195.00 tied up in Purchase Orders. There is a resulting $8,873.79 in cash.
Director Nash shared that there are trainings in the pipeline and this amount will be spent down soon.
The printed minutes include a screenshot of the county’s Statement of Cash from Revenue and Expense (1/1/2025 to 10/31/2025) at this point. The figures above are the ones stated in the text.
Motion to approve the financial report
Sheriff Matthew Hafey
Second
Chief Kenny Fisher
Discussion
None
Result
Passed
SERC Financial Report
Director Nash shared that there was an error in the 2025 SERC Financial Report for the county. She stated that she is working with the SERC to get this corrected. It appears the carryover amount was incorrect.
In addition, it was found that a formal resolution is needed for the support EMA provides to the Pickaway County LEPC. Director Nash is asking for passage of the EMA support for $15,000 per year as has been done.
Resolution #2025-01 — EMA Admin Support
Motion to approve a resolution for EMA to provide administrative services to LEPC for $15,000 annually
Chief Brian Thompson
Second
Sheriff Matthew Hafey
Discussion
None
Result
Passed
4. Reports
Spill Responses (since July 10, 2025)
7/17/2025 — Pickaway Twp — 13 gallons of hydraulic fluid and oil, 13 gallons recovered.
8/12/2025 — Pie-a-Fay — Boat sink off Deer Creek Marina, 5 gallons of fuel and oil approximately recovered. $600 cost recovery in booms.
There were several other calls to the EPA. Most of these did not amount to a required response.
Compliance
Tier II Reports. No new filers for 2025. We are working on a process for next year to ensure reporters are sending their Tier II to EPA, fire departments, and the LEPC (EMA). We have found that several were going to EPA and the locals did not receive them and vice versa.
Compliance Report. Submitted 9/22/2025.
Training
Will be scheduling the trainings approved earlier in the year. Stay tuned for dates and locations.
5. LEPC Exercise
At the last meeting we discussed hosting a full-scale exercise. There has since been discussion of moving to a TTX this year instead due to new members who have never been in an exercise before.
The exercise will utilize South Bloomfield and 23 area. There was discussion about potential evacuation components. Red Cross has requested a sheltering component to test their people.
Planning Team will be meeting soon to start preparations. Those identified to be part of the Planning Team include Chief Bryan Cline, Chief Michael Maynard, Director Tiffany Nash, and Lt Shad Caplinger. Additional participants from Fire/EMS and ODOT were requested. Steve Sabine and Chief Shawn Davidson from Harrison Township Fire, Scott Rice from ODOT, and John Eckelberry from American Red Cross volunteered to participate.
The timeline is to have exercise this winter — potentially December or January.
6. SERC Packet Submission
Director Nash shared that with other large-scale projects going on, she intends to submit a No Change for the SERC 10/17/2025 hazmat plan deadline. This is our third consecutive No Change, so next year there will be a change. She also discussed backing the timeline up and seeking approval earlier in the year.
To submit a No Change, a resolution is needed. Director Nash asked for approval for Resolution #2025-02.
Motion to approve submitting our third consecutive No Change hazmat plan to SERC
Sheriff Matthew Hafey
Second
Lt Shad Caplinger
Discussion
None
Result
Passed
7. Old Business
LEPC Grant Application. Received $18,582.00 in August.
HMEP Grant Application. Applied for training and gas detector meters. All EMA grants are on pause due to the federal government shutdown. Ohio EMA is hosting weekly meetings to provide updates on grants. More information will come as able.
8. New Business
Lt Josh Mollohan from Jackson Township Fire shared that there are some changes with the hazmat teams surrounding Pickaway County.
9. Round Table Discussion
Chief Michael Maynard of South Bloomfield shared that the Shelter House/Conference room is available if wanted for exercises, meetings, or other functions. Let him know if you’re interested in booking it.
Laura Wright from ODOT shared that there is a Train the Trainer on 11/19 for Quick Clear at the ODOT Central Office. There will be an EV Battery Course to follow that same day. ODOT has lots of free training. Reach out to her to register or visit the Ohio LTAP Center at transportation.ohio.gov/programs/ltap/all-events.
Christa Myers from PICCA is the new Mobility Manager. She had several events that were quickly approaching: C-CAM for Transportation to identify barriers to transportation, 10/15 at OCU; Car Fit for adults, 10/21 from 1–3pm at the VFW.
Tiffany Singer from the Health Department shared that there were flu shots at the Pickaway County Library with their mobile clinic from 7am to 4pm on 10/10. They do not have COVID vaccine available currently. She also shared Safe Communities is back with Intern Isabella Watson leading it.
Sheriff Hafey shared that there was a Safe Bank project on Friday, 10/10 on bank fraud.
ODOT shared that they are staging vehicles at the Sheriff’s Office during Pumpkin Show to try to be able to respond. Scott Rice shared that people should call sooner rather than later due to longer response time getting there. He also asked that people call the TMC first (their Dispatch Center).
Chief Brian Thompson said that with Pumpkin Show, there was at point a 50% chance of rain Friday. All hands-on deck for public safety and response.
Director Tiffany Nash shared that the Emergency Operations Center will be open in a warm (partial) activation status. They will be testing EOC operations on a new platform so people may see changes throughout the week.
10. Meeting Adjournment
Motion to adjourn meeting
Chief Shawn Davidson
Second
Chief Brian Thompson
Discussion
None
Result
Passed
Time of adjournment
9:49am
Meeting with ODOT and Public Safety followed LEPC Meeting.
2026 meetings
January 8, 2026
April 9, 2026
July 9, 2026
October 8, 2026
Calendar invites forthcoming.
LEPC Meeting Agenda — Thursday, April 10, 2025, 9:00 a.m.
Pickaway County Local Emergency Planning Committee · 160 Island Rd, Circleville, Ohio 43113
Chief Deputy James A. Brown, Jr., Chairperson · Sgt. Logan Keeton, Vice Chairperson · Tiffany Nash, Information/Emergency Coordinator
Full text of the agenda, provided so the content can be read with a screen reader. The PDF is the official record.
Pickaway County Local Emergency Planning Committee · 160 Island Rd, Circleville, Ohio 43113
Chief Deputy James A. Brown, Jr., Chairperson · Sgt. Logan Keeton, Vice Chairperson · Tiffany Nash, Information/Emergency Coordinator
Full text of the meeting notes, provided so the content can be read with a screen reader. The PDF is the official record.
Attendance
Members present: Wayne Congrove, Shad Caplinger, Logan Keeton, Steve Sabine, Bill Geddis, Matthew Hafey, Tiffany Nash, Tiffany Singer, Melanie Swisher.
Members not present: Spencer Bennett, Ken McCoy, Sheryl McCorkle, Andrew Bull, Steven Collins, Tom Kitchen, Kyle Miller, Brian Thompson, Harold Henson, Scott Rice, Kristin McCloud, Tiffany Deitch, Mark Adkins, Matt Church, Matthew Fields, Steve Smith, Marie Wilbanks, James A. Brown, Jr., Chad Scott, Tadd Sickels, Phil Relli.
Guests and staff: Ed Warner, EMA; Travis Roach, OEMA; Lt Josh Mollohan, Jackson Twp; Mark Banks, PUCO; Doug Burns, Logan Elm Baptist; Omar Ponce, PPG; Bill Geddis, PPG.
1. Call to Order / Introductions
The meeting was called to order by Sgt. Keeton at 09:00 with the Pledge of Allegiance. Introductions were made around the room.
2. Review & Approval of Previous Meeting Minutes
Mr. Steve Sabine made a motion to approve the meeting minutes from the January 9, 2025, meeting. A second was made by Mrs. Singer. There was no discussion. Motion passed.
3. Bylaws
Sgt. Keeton stated that the Bylaws have been edited and need to be approved. Mrs. Nash shared that the LEPC is considered a county board and therefore falls under the services of the County Prosecutor and County Auditor. Mrs. Nash shared that County Prosecutor Fountain reviewed the Bylaws and had no edits.
A motion to approve the Bylaws as written was made by Mr. Sabine. A second motion was made by Lt Caplinger. Discussion included what constitutes a quorum per the Bylaws. Mrs. Nash shared that with previous meetings, the group approved of making a quorum the majority of members physically present. The edits to the Bylaws now reflect this agreement. A vote was cast. Motion passed.
4. Announcements
Sgt. Keeton shared that at the July meeting, there will be the election of officers and the renewal of the membership list. If anyone is interested in being the Chair, Vice Chair, or Secretary, let Chief Deputy Brown, Sgt. Keeton, or Mrs. Nash know before the July meeting. Nominations will also be taken at the July meeting.
Mr. Sabine asked if Sgt. Keeton was interested in moving to Chair and then bringing in a new Vice Chair for continuity. Sgt. Keeton shared he would be interested.
5. Approval of LEPC Financial Report
Mrs. Nash shared the financial report for the LEPC. As of 4/10/2025, the account has a balance of $19,179.78.
Sheriff Hafey made a motion to approve the Financial Report. A second motion was made by Lt. Caplinger. There was no discussion. Motion passed.
6. Reports
Spill Responses
Mrs. Nash shared the following spill responses that have taken place since the last meeting.
1/9/2025 — Fuel spill on 71 in Darby Township from an auto accident. EPA called EMA/LEPC for notification only.
2/17/2025 — Restaurant grease spilled from truck after it wrecked.
3/2/2025 — Approx 100 gallons of diesel fuel spilled on 23 by Quality Inn. The truck driver hit something that cut his saddle tank. Spill isolated to the blacktop.
3/11/2025 — 50 gallons of diesel released from a saddle tank by 23 and River Rd by the airport. Result of a vehicle accident. EPA called. EMA/LEPC for notification only.
Compliance
Mrs. Nash shared that Tier II report filing deadline has passed. Mr. Warner and Mr. Horner from her office are working on the full report and will reach out to any Tier II filers that are missing.
Training
Mrs. Nash shared that she put four training courses into the LEPC grant application for the next fiscal period. She has not heard the result of the grant application yet. (Notification will be made in June or July.) Mrs. Nash shared that she would like to apply for the PUCO grant to help fund some of these courses. Mr. Banks from PUCO was present and stated the grant application is open until the end of April.
The group stated that they would like to see the Hazmat for Law Enforcement and Lithium-Ion Battery class funded through PUCO. A motion was put on the floor by Mr. Sabine to seek the PUCO grant opportunity for the two courses. A second motion was made by Sgt. Keeton. Discussion was made that they would also like to see a hazmat course for Dispatchers be offered. Mr. Roach from Ohio EMA stated that there is such a course. Vote was cast. Motion passed.
Mr. Banks followed up with his grant partners at PUCO. The LEPC can apply for multiple courses and can list all the ones we are interested in. Priority of courses, if funded, will fall to the motion made. If there is additional funding available, we will pursue the other courses as well.
7. Old Business
LEPC Application
Mrs. Nash shared that this is still pending. We should have the results in June or July.
Link Layer Authentication
Mrs. Nash shared that the link layer authentication (LLA) is still ongoing with a state deadline of July 1, 2025. She shared that this is a monumental project for Pickaway County and that they are reaching out and checking on 58 agencies/departments. She shared that this project takes time and does not happen overnight due to all the tasks behind the scenes.
Mr. Sabine asked if any support was needed from the LEPC group at large. Mrs. Nash asked people to maintain communication with the EMA and Assistant Chief Spencer Bennett to make sure they are ready to go for July 1st.
Circleville Rope Rescue Truck
Chief Thompson was unable to attend the meeting. This conversation was tabled until he can be available.
8. New Business
Exercise Update
Mrs. Nash thanked everyone who participated in the annual LEPC exercise. This year was a Tabletop held at the EMA office with Correctional Reception Center (CRC) being the incident location. She received a lot of positive feedback. A recommendation is being made to the Ohio SERC to pass us on the exercise. The Ohio SERC has not met to discuss this yet.
The next grant cycle year will start a new four-year cycle. We must do at least one tabletop, one functional, and one full-scale exercise. She asked if any sites want to be the site of our exercise scenario, please reach out to her, the Chair, or Vice Chair. Discussion was made amongst the group that they would like to see one of the new warehouses in the northern part of the county be an exercise site to foster relationships with them.
Standing Meeting Times
Sgt. Keeton shared that there was previous discussion on whether this date and time worked for people to come to the LEPC meeting. Sgt. Keeton offered that a survey can be shared with the group at large to take a survey. Those in attendance stated that this date/time worked for them.
9. Round Table Discussion
No one in the group had discussion for the round table.
10. Meeting Adjournment
A motion was made by Sheriff Hafey to adjourn the meeting at 09:27am. A second was made by Ms. Swisher. No discussion. Motion passed.
2025 meetings — all at 9:00am
Thursday, January 9, 2025
Thursday, April 10, 2025
Thursday, July 10, 2025
Thursday, October 9, 2025
LEPC Meeting Agenda — Thursday, January 9, 2025, 9:00 a.m.
Pickaway County Local Emergency Planning Committee · 160 Island Rd, Circleville, Ohio 43113
Chief Deputy James A. Brown, Jr., Chairperson · Sgt. Logan Keeton, Vice Chairperson · Tiffany Nash, Information/Emergency Coordinator
Full text of the agenda, provided so the content can be read with a screen reader. The PDF is the official record.
Call to Order / Introductions
Review & Approval of Previous Meeting Minutes*
Approval of LEPC Financial Report*
Balance
Spill Responses
11/11/2024 — Scioto Township — Paint Call
11/11/2024 — Harrison Township — Diesel Spill
12/17/2024 — Harrison Township — Sheen on Little Walnut Creek
Pickaway County Local Emergency Planning Committee · 160 Island Rd, Circleville, Ohio 43113
Chief Deputy James A. Brown, Jr., Chairperson · Sgt. Logan Keeton, Vice Chairperson · Information/Emergency Coordinator: Vacant
Full text of the approved minutes, provided so the content can be read with a screen reader. The PDF is the official record.
Held at the Pickaway County Emergency Operations Center, 160 Island Road, Circleville, OH 43113.
1. Attendance
Members present: Wayne Congrove, Shad Caplinger, Logan Keeton, Brian Thompson, Steve Sabine, Ken Mettler, Matthew Hafey, Tiffany Nash, Tiffany Singer, Phil Relli.
Members not present: Spencer Bennett, Ken McCoy, Sheryl McCorkle, Andrew Bull, Steven Collins, Tom Kitchen, Kyle Miller, Harold Henson, Scott Rice, Kristin McCloud, Tiffany Deitch, Mark Adkins, Matt Church, Lynn Ohara-Harris, Steve Smith, Marie Wilbanks, James A. Brown, Jr., Chad Scott, Tadd Sickels, Matthew Fields.
Guests and staff: Brigitte Bouska, OEMA; Doug Burns, Logan Elm Baptist.
2. Welcome & Introduction
The meeting started at 09:01am. Introductions were made around the room. Sgt. Logan Keeton, Vice Chair, led the meeting.
3. Review of Past Minutes
Minutes on the table for review from the October 2024 meeting.
Motion for approval
Steve Sabine
Second
Phil Relli
Discussion
N/A
Resolution
Passed
4. Approval of LEPC Financial Report
Balance: $19,179.78.
Motion for approval and submission of the financial report
Matt Hafey
Second
Steve Sabine
Discussion
N/A
Resolution
Passed
5. ESRI Subscription Renewal
ESRI application was submitted, and Tiffany has access. Let Tiffany know if anyone needs access or maps run in ESRI. This will be helpful with mapping and the mitigation plan.
6. New Business
a. Tier II Reports
Reports will begin arriving soon. They are due March 1st.
b. LEPC Grant Application
Tiffany is submitting the LEPC Grant application to Ohio EPA.
Motion to submit application
Sheriff Hafey
Second
Phil Relli
Discussion
N/A
Resolution
Passed
c. Training
Discussed training opportunities that are coming and the classes submitted in the grant application. Those classes include solar farm response, hazmat for law enforcement, ICS300, ICS400, and lithium battery class.
d. Enterprise TE Pipeline Check
A check for $1,000 was received from Enterprise. This was unexpected but welcome. A thank you card was sent from the LEPC.
e. 2025 LEPC Exercise
Tiffany shared that it is time to start planning the LEPC TTX exercise. The goal is to have the exercise in March. A Planning Committee is needed to start the process.
The Planning Committee will meet after the LEPC meeting today to hold the Initial Planning Meeting (IPM).
f. Warming Center
Vineyard Church Circleville has a warming center open. Fliers are available. Details are also available on social media through the EMA office or Vineyard Church Circleville.
7. Special Presentation — Chief Thompson, Circleville Fire Department
Circleville Fire Department received a new ladder truck in December. They are going through training and the truck is not in service yet. The truck is a 700ft straight stick which helps with rope rescue.
Circleville Fire Department is asking the group to assist with the cost of equipment so that it is available for grain bins and rope rescue emergencies. They believe this could be an asset in the county. With mutual aid, the ETA for a rope rescue is 30–60 minutes if the equipment is available. This resource is starting over as older equipment is obsolete. Circleville Fire is asking the LEPC group to consider funding some of the equipment. Quotes for equipment were provided. This list is a starting point. It is likely that more equipment will be needed as they get it operational. Harnesses have already been purchased and will be different sizes for different body types. The Chief said that people are welcome to stop by and see it. The goal is to have the truck in service at the beginning of February.
The group asked the Chief to come back with a list for half of the equipment (roughly $10,000). The group asked to have a special meeting to discuss the rope truck and equipment because they wanted to support sooner and not wait till the April meeting.
Motion to have a special meeting on March 3rd — first
Sheriff Hafey
Second
Lt Caplinger
8. Roundtable Discussion
Chief Thompson — Kudos to townships, state, and local communities on plowing efforts. Sheriff for being on top of snow emergencies and first responders for braving the emergencies. Clean up happened faster because people stayed off the roadways.
ODOT echoed that cleanup time was cut in half because there was no traffic on the road.
9. Meeting Adjournment
Motion to adjourn made by
Steve Sabine
Second
Lt Caplinger
Discussion
N/A
Resolution
Passed
Next meeting date: 09:00, Thursday, April 10, 2025, at the EOC (160 Island Road).
LEPC Meeting Agenda — Thursday, July 10, 2025, 9:00 a.m.
Pickaway County Local Emergency Planning Committee · 160 Island Rd, Circleville, Ohio 43113
Chief Deputy James A. Brown, Jr., Chairperson · Sgt. Logan Keeton, Vice Chairperson · Tiffany Nash, Information/Emergency Coordinator
Full text of the agenda, provided so the content can be read with a screen reader. The PDF is the official record.
Pickaway County Local Emergency Planning Committee · 160 Island Rd, Circleville, Ohio 43113
Chief Deputy James A. Brown, Jr., Chairperson · Sgt. Logan Keeton, Vice Chairperson · Tiffany Nash, Information/Emergency Coordinator
Full text of the meeting notes, provided so the content can be read with a screen reader. The PDF is the official record.
Attendance
Members present: Spencer Bennett, Wayne Congrove, Shad Caplinger, Tom Kitchen, Logan Keeton, Steve Sabine, Scott Rice, Bill Geddis, Matthew Hafey, Tiffany Nash, Tiffany Singer, James A. Brown, Jr.
Members not present: Ken McCoy, Sheryl McCorkle, Andrew Bull, Steven Collins, Kyle Miller, Brian Thompson, Harold Henson, Kristin McCloud, Tiffany Deitch, Mark Adkins, Nicholas Romanak, Matthew Fields, Steve Smith, Marie Wilbanks, Chad Scott, Tadd Sickels, Phil Relli, Melanie Swisher.
Guests and staff: Ed Warner, EMA; John Eckelberry, Red Cross; Greg Myers, Box 65; Traci Harris, PICCA; Mike Smith, HEPACO; Laura Wright, ODOT; Travis Roach, Ohio EMA; Michael Maynard, South Bloomfield PD; Kristin Khatib, PPG; Paul Holcomb, PPG; Claire Alexander, PPG; Joe Han, HEPACO; Nathan Polack, Ohio EPA; Omar Ponce, PPG.
1. Call to Order / Introductions
9:03am.
2. Review & Approval of Previous Meeting Minutes
Motion to approve previous meeting’s minutes
Chief Bennett
Second
Lt Caplinger
Discussion
None
Result
Pass
3. Announcements
No announcements this meeting.
4. Approval of LEPC Financial Report
Balance
The Auditor has changed software systems, and we are learning how to use it. Balance appears to be $19,000 in the LEPC Grant line.
Motion to approve financial report
Sheriff Hafey
Second
Greg Myers
Discussion
None
Result
Passed
SERC Financial Report
The Financial Report is due to SERC at the end of the month. In it, we must address our successes and how we are going to use the balance. The group has discussed lithium-ion battery, solar response, hazmat for law enforcement, and a hazmat tech refresher course. Chief Deputy Brown will sign the report. No vote needed.
5. Membership List Update
The two-year update to the membership list is now due. According to the Ohio LEPC Member’s Handbook 2021, the terms are August to August of odd numbered years. There is not a limit on the number of members per the Handbook, but it must include at least one representative from the categories listed on page 7. Anyone NOT interested in being a member should notify Director Nash immediately after today’s meeting.
The list will be taken to the Commissioners’ meeting next week for a formal resolution.
6. Officers
The Chair, Vice Chair, and Secretary positions are up for election for the same two-year term as members. Nominations were taken from previous conversations and the floor.
Chair — nomination: Sgt. Logan Keeton
Motion for Sgt Keeton to be Chair
Lt Caplinger
Second
Sheriff Hafey
Discussion
None
Result
Passed
Vice Chair — nomination: Steve Sabine
Motion for Steve Sabine to be Vice Chair
Sgt Keeton
Second
Tiffany Singer
Discussion
None
Result
Passed
Secretary — nomination: Tiffany Nash
Motion for Director Nash to be Secretary
Chief Bennett
Second
Steve Sabine
Discussion
None
Result
Passed
7. Reports
Spill Responses
April 16 — Nutrien Ag Fire
April 24 — Similac and Water from semi rollover accident
May 2 — Diesel Spill @ Kenmore
May 6 — Diesel Spill @ St. Rt 23 & Pittsburgh Rd
8 incidents on the calendar year; 10 incidents on the fiscal year.
Compliance
Ed provided an update on Tier II reports. There are three that the reports went to the State instead of the local jurisdictions. He is getting a copy of those three. All agencies with Tier II obligations has submitted their reports.
Training
ICS 300 next week
ICS 400 September
Application window is currently open to apply for other ICS/FEMA classes through Ohio EMA (to host here in Pickaway). Courses we are interested in hosting locally include disaster preparedness & survival Train the Trainer, incident management, special event incident management, all-hazards unified command, and public information. If anyone is interested in being a host site or has other training needs, please let Director Nash know.
8. Old Business — LEPC Application
We applied to SERC for $26,350 for this new fiscal year. Director Nash has not received notice on how much we are getting, but the money should be arriving late July/early August per the last letter received. The amount was $15,000 in contract services, $2,000 for supplies, and $9,350 in training (Hazmat for Law Enforcement, Lithium-ion battery, annual Tech Refresher).
9. New Business
HMEP Grant Application
The HMEP grant application came open. It is specifically for hazmat training. EMA submitted a grant application for four different projects:
$2,850.00 for Hazmat for Law Enforcement x2
$3,250.00 for Detection & Air Monitoring course
$6,819.07 for training air detector & corresponding equipment
This grant has a 20% in-kind match. Applications are currently under review.
There is interest in getting operational air detectors, but is not covered under this grant.
HAZMAT Plan
The Hazmat Plan is currently under review. It will be brought to the October LEPC meeting to vote on with the SERC packet due to the State by October 17th. In the future, the hope is to back this approval timeline up, so it is not last minute.
Assistance will be needed from the members and first responders to ensure the plan is accurate and appropriate.
LEPC Exercise
Director Nash shared that it is the beginning of the LEPC four-year exercise cycle. Exercises need to be completed by June 2026.
The group decided to go ahead and do the full scale this year and get it out of the way. Chief Maynard offered to do it in South Bloomfield. The group decided to do something with Route 23.
Mr. Eckelberry would like us to exercise the Red Cross with feeding and/or sheltering due to all the restructuring changes that have recently occurred.
10. Round Table Discussion
Red Cross
Went from region of 5 chapters to 4. Pickaway is now in the Central Ohio Region not the Southeast Region. Mr. Eckelberry and Janet Litler are the POCs. Emily Hesselbein is over Janet and is in Columbus. Mr. Eckelberry advised the group to call Red Cross early to get the process started. He shared that it is easier to stage if they have as much notice as possible.
ODOT District 6 — OTIM Coordinator
Ms. Laura Wright is new to the group but wanted to introduce herself. She works in Traffic Incident Management at ODOT, which helps to prevent secondary crashes. There is free training available through the Ohio Traffic Incident Management (OTIM) with EMS and fire hours. Currently, there are no CPT hours. This class can be requested at transportation.ohio.gov/programs/otim (click “Training for Responders” and then click “Request In-Person Training”).
She also has access to different grant opportunities. She can apply for funding to install cameras. The group discussed traffic patterns on 23 and studies that are going to be done on different roads in the county. Ms. Wright stated that the data from these studies are good to put in justification and narratives for grants.
Sheriff’s Office
Sheriff Hafey shared that there is a Marathon Pipeline Training (virtual) — August 7th at 1:30 Central Time. RSVP at mplemergencyrespondertraining.com/rsvp.
11. Meeting Adjournment at 9:40am
Motion
Mr. Sabine
Second
Sheriff Hafey
Discussion
None
Result
Pass
2025 meetings — all at 9:00am
Thursday, January 9, 2025
Thursday, April 10, 2025
Thursday, July 10, 2025
Thursday, October 9, 2025 — Invitation coming soon with a location change.
LEPC Meeting Agenda — Thursday, July 9, 2026, 9:00 a.m.
Pickaway County Local Emergency Planning Committee · 160 Island Rd, Circleville, Ohio 43113
Full text of the agenda, provided so the content can be read with a screen reader. The PDF is the official record.
Call to Order / Introductions
Special Presentation: PPG Tour and Discussion to follow meeting
Review & Approval of Previous Meeting Minutes*
Approval of LEPC Financial Report*
Balance
SERC Financial Report
Reports
Spill Responses
Compliance
Tier II Reports
Compliance Report
Training
Updates
LEPC Exercise
Functional Exercise Planning
Old Business
New Business
OEMA Representative
SERC Memo on Media Representation
EMA Website
Round Table Discussion
Meeting Adjournment*
* as marked on the printed agenda.
2026 meetings
January 8, 2026
April 9, 2026
July 9, 2026 — at PPG
October 8, 2026
LEPC Meeting Agenda — Thursday, April 9, 2026, 9:00 a.m.
Pickaway County Local Emergency Planning Committee · 160 Island Rd, Circleville, Ohio 43113
Full text of the agenda, provided so the content can be read with a screen reader. The PDF is the official record.
Call to Order / Introductions
Special Presentation: Ohio Hazmat TAC / State Response Plan — Lt Josh Mollohan
Review & Approval of Previous Meeting Minutes*
Approval of LEPC Financial Report*
Balance
SERC Financial Report
Reports
Spill Responses
Compliance
Tier II Reports
Compliance Report
Training
Updates
LEPC Exercise
TTX Exercise
Old Business
New Business
Round Table Discussion
Meeting Adjournment*
* as marked on the printed agenda.
2026 meetings
January 8, 2026
April 9, 2026
July 9, 2026 — at PPG
October 8, 2026
LEPC Meeting Agenda — Thursday, January 8, 2026, 9:00 a.m.
Pickaway County Local Emergency Planning Committee · 160 Island Rd, Circleville, Ohio 43113
Full text of the agenda, provided so the content can be read with a screen reader. The PDF is the official record.
Call to Order / Introductions
Review & Approval of Previous Meeting Minutes*
Approval of LEPC Financial Report*
Balance
SERC Financial Report
2026 LEPC Grant Application
Resolution 2026-1 — Application for Grant*
Resolution 2026-2 — Contract Services for EMA Admin Support*
Reports
Spill Responses
Compliance
Tier II Reports
Compliance Report
Training
Updates
Training Goals for 2026
LEPC Exercise
Old Business
HMEP Grant Application Update
SERC 2025 Submission Update
New Business
Round Table Discussion
Meeting Adjournment*
* as marked on the printed agenda.
2026 meetings
January 8, 2026
April 9, 2026
July 9, 2026
October 8, 2026
LEPC Meeting Agenda — Thursday, October 9, 2025, 9:00 a.m.
Pickaway County Local Emergency Planning Committee · 160 Island Rd, Circleville, Ohio 43113
Full text of the agenda, provided so the content can be read with a screen reader. The PDF is the official record.
Call to Order / Introductions
Review & Approval of Previous Meeting Minutes*
Approval of LEPC Financial Report*
Balance
SERC Financial Report
Resolution for EMA Admin Support*
Reports
Spill Responses
Compliance
Tier II Reports
Compliance Report
Training
LEPC Exercise
SERC Packet Submission
Old Business
LEPC Grant Application
HMEP Grant Application
New Business
Round Table Discussion
Meeting Adjournment*
* as marked on the printed agenda.
2026 meetings
January 8, 2026
April 9, 2026
July 9, 2026
October 8, 2026
Calendar invites forthcoming.
LEPC Meeting Minutes — Thursday, July 9, 2026, 9:00 a.m.
Pickaway County Local Emergency Planning Committee · 160 Island Rd, Circleville, Ohio 43113
Full text of the approved minutes, provided so the content can be read with a screen reader. The PDF is the official record.
1. Call to Order / Introductions
The meeting was led by Steve Sabine. Call to Order occurred at 09:03am. The Pledge of Allegiance was said.
Introductions were made around the room. A sign-in sheet representing those in attendance is attached.
Special Presentation was held after the meeting by PPG with a tour and small Tabletop discussion. All in attendance were encouraged to stay.
2. Review & Approval of Previous Meeting Minutes
Director Nash sent the meeting minutes after the last meeting. Steve Sabine asked if there were any questions. There was no discussion.
Motion to approve
Greg Myers
Second
Jimmy Brown
Discussion
None
Result
Pass
3. Approval of LEPC Financial Report
There is an unexpended balance of $16,261.76 in the account. The next grant allowance should be announced by SERC in the next month or two. We have not seen the amount yet. We still need to pay for the latest training and air monitoring equipment. There is another grant to pay 80% of those invoices with LEPC paying the remaining 20%. We verified this was not a conflict and received that response in writing. The last training is next week and once that invoice is paid, we will submit for reimbursement from HMEP grant.
Motion to approve the financial report
Tiffany Singer
Second
Scott Rice
Discussion
None
Result
Pass
The SERC Financial Report is due July 30th. It will be signed by the LEPC Chair and County Auditor prior to submission. If anyone wants to see a copy, contact Tiff. The report does not require a resolution to be passed.
4. Reports
a. Spill Responses
The old Purina Mill Site in Circleville had a transformer leak found on 5/28/2026. Unknown amount of oil leaking from transformers on abandoned Purina Mill site. Found 5/28/2026 after calling to site for another reason. Appears to be leaking for some time. Current owner is in Florida and has never seen the site. Three large tanks hold 150 gallons of oil. Three smaller tanks hold approximately 60 gallons each. Contractor pulled samples from site to send for testing — concerns that since the tanks are so old that they may have PCBs in them (large ones from 1950). Later results show no PCBs were detected. The site is already a Brownfield Remediation site and has gone through Phase 1.
b. Compliance
There are no updates for the Tier II or Compliance reports.
c. Hazmat Plan
This year our Hazmat Plan is required to have changes. It is in process of updates. We will bring it forward for a vote of acceptance at the October meeting. It is due to be in the State by October 17th. Our efforts have been to back up the approval so that we are not approving it at the last minute. Due to workload, this has been extremely difficult but is still the goal.
d. Training
Pickaway County is hosting a G-300 class July 22–24 at Scioto Township Fire. Cost is free to participants. There is still plenty of room. Registration is now through Ohio Learn rather than the Department of Public Safety Training Site. If you have trouble registering, contact the EMA office or Lisa Jones at OEMA.
G-400 is also at Scioto Township Fire. It is scheduled for September 15–16.
5. LEPC Exercise — Functional Exercise Planning
Time to start planning for the Functional Exercise. The Planning Team will remain the same with a couple of additions — Sheriff’s Office and Dispatch. Tiff will reach out soon to get the planning team together. This will be an expansion of the TTX done in February.
Feedback from participants wanted more planning, continuing with exercises, and having the exercise during decent weather.
6. Old Business
No old business from previous meeting.
7. New Business
a. SERC Memo on Media Representation
The SERC received an opinion from the Attorney General’s Office since a lot of LEPCs could not get traditional media members to participate. Memo states that PIO and amateur / HAM Radio qualify. We will continue current operations — we do meet the standard with the Circleville Herald and PIOs present in our member list.
b. EMA Website
LEPC information is required to be posted with the Right-to-Know Act. Along with the ADA compliance standard for websites and being more effective with resources, the current EMA website will be dismantled very soon. We have a web page through the County Commissioners which has been expanded to include what was on our standalone site. We are working with our developers to forward traffic to the new site. You will be seeing changes soon.
8. Round Table Discussion
Richard Watkins, Williamsport Village Council
Thank you to EMA for the use of radios during the 250 celebrations in Williamsport. They made the event better.
Steve Sabine, Harrison Fire
The Ashville 4th of July event was less crowded this year. There are several 4th of July 250 events going on in the county.
762 is down to one lane between Bulen-Pierce Rd and US Rt 23. Airbase Road will be closed for one year as it is widened to 4 lanes.
Scott Rice, ODOT
July 20th, weather permitting, Rt 104 from the Ross County line to 316 will be closed 3–4 days for chip sealing. Problems could be possible for a few days after due to loose gravel.
9. Meeting Adjournment
Motion to adjourn
Greg Myers
Second
Sheriff Hafey
Result
Pass
Adjourned
09:27
2026 meetings
January 8, 2026
April 9, 2026
July 9, 2026 — Breakfast and meeting at PPG, group discussion and tour to follow
October 8, 2026
LEPC Meeting Minutes — Thursday, January 8, 2026, 9:00 a.m.
Pickaway County Local Emergency Planning Committee · 160 Island Rd, Circleville, Ohio 43113
Full text of the approved minutes, provided so the content can be read with a screen reader. The PDF is the official record.
1. Call to Order / Introductions
The meeting was led by Steve Sabine. Call to Order occurred at 09:00am. The Pledge of Allegiance was said, followed by a moment of silence for retired Captain Jon Rhoades.
Introductions were made around the room. A sign-in sheet representing those in attendance is attached.
2. Review & Approval of Previous Meeting Minutes
Director Nash sent the meeting minutes after the last meeting. Steve Sabine asked if there were any questions. There was no discussion.
Motion to approve
Asst. Chief Spencer Bennett
Second
Chief Brian Thompson
Result
Pass
3. Approval of LEPC Financial Report
Director Nash shared that the account has $31,000 in it. This sum needs to be spent down. Director Nash is working with Bad Day Training to schedule training discussed in previous meetings.
Director Nash also shared that the 2025 Financial Audit for LEPC needed revised. She worked with the State SERC and Pickaway County Auditor and found the error. That report has been corrected and formally accepted by the SERC.
Motion to approve the financial report
Greg Myers
Second
Sheriff Matthew Hafey
Result
Pass
4. 2026 LEPC Grant Application
Steve Sabine shared that there are two resolutions that need passed.
a. Resolution 2026-1 — Application for Grant
This resolution is to apply for the 2026 LEPC grant. Director Nash read the resolution to the group. A motion was requested for consensus to apply.
Motion to approve the grant application
Sheriff Matthew Hafey
Second
Chief Brian Thompson
Result
Pass
b. Resolution 2026-2 — Contract Services for EMA Admin Support
This resolution is needed for bookkeeping and documentation. Steve Sabine stated that this resolution is for the administrative work that EMA handles for the LEPC including grant applications, meeting minutes, scheduling, and communicating with the SERC. He stated there is no change in this resolution from past years.
Motion to approve the grant application
Lt Shad Caplinger
Second
Chief Deputy Jimmy Brown
Abstentions
Director Tiffany Nash & Deputy Director Ed Warner, EMA
Result
Pass
5. Reports
a. Spill Responses
Director Nash shared that there were two notable responses since the last meeting in early October.
10/22/2025 — Milk Release at Five Points Pike by Davis and Adkins culverts. Approximately 1400 gallons of milk were released after a fill alarm failed. The milk went into the drainage tile, down a ditch, and into the creek bed. The spill has been mitigated.
12/10/2025 — Gasoline in a field in Darby Township from a fatal accident; approximately 100 gallons were released. The landowner was contacted in California and contractors were cleaning up the site.
b. Compliance
Tier II Reports. Tier II reports should start coming in soon. Ed will be working with the reporters to ensure they send their information to LEPC (EMA), the correct fire jurisdiction, and the SERC.
Compliance Report. No new updates.
c. Training
Director Nash is working with Bad Day Training to get training dates scheduled for “Hazmat for Law Enforcement” and air monitoring and detection. The Sheriff’s Office asked to hold Hazmat for Law Enforcement over the summer so that their SROs can help backfill staffing. The fire departments present stated there was no better or worse time to have the air detection and monitoring class.
As part of the LEPC grant application, it asks what trainings would the group like to have for 2026. Director Nash asked those in attendance what other classes for hazmat wanted or needed. Chief Deputy Jimmy Brown offered that they were still very interested in Public Information Officer trainings and that the Ohio State Highway Patrol had a free class in media relations that was very good. Director Nash also stated that she has put in training applications through Ohio EMA for L-105 Public Information Officer and G-191 EOC/ICS Interface which was cancelled last period.
6. LEPC Exercise
Steve Sabine shared that the LEPC Tabletop Exercise is scheduled for February 12, 2026. It will be held at South Bloomfield. Those who are players have already been informed that they are requested to attend. If others want to observe, let Director Nash know so that the seating is arranged. This exercise is a combination of two real-world events that happened close to us and should be a good exercise.
Director Nash shared that the next two exercises — the functional and full scale — will be a continuation of the tabletop.
7. Old Business
a. HMEP Grant Application Update
Director Nash stated that the Pickaway County LEPC was awarded the full amount requested. The HMEP grant deals with training for hazmat and items purchased cannot be used for operations. The Hazmat for Law Enforcement classes were approved under this grant as well as one 4-gas meter, the associated tablet, and training. The HMEP grant does have a 20% match and the LEPC funds can be used for that match.
b. SERC 2025 Submission Update — SERC approved the “no change”
SERC had its meeting recently. The packet for Pickaway County was approved for a “no change”. This was the third and final consecutive “no change”. Director Nash stated she is in process of updating the Hazmat Plan with the assistance of Jackson Township Fire and others. She intends to bring the new Plan to the group for approval in March or July to get ahead of the October deadline and keep the approval in that timeframe each year.
8. New Business
No new business.
9. Round Table Discussion
Director Tiffany Nash, EMA
A Communications Technician has been hired. He will start mid-May at the earliest due to finishing his tour with the Marines. Director Nash stated he will be taking the work that Assistant Chief Spencer Bennett has helped with and expressed appreciation for his time, effort, and assistance.
Brigitte Bouska, Ohio EMA
Funding for training is still an issue as monies have not been released by FEMA. Ohio EMA is taking it small chunks at a time to see if classes can continue or if they need to be cancelled. Ohio EMA is also working to get internal people trained to teach classes. Brigitte shared that she is retiring June 1, 2026.
Laura Wright, ODOT
OTEM Quick Clear training will be held January 13th in Chillicothe for anyone interested. There will be one session each month in different locations through 2026 and 2027. Laura asked about the signal timing at 752 and 23. There is a camera coming to that site but it is not there yet. She is applying for funding for additional cameras. She brought up a question from a previous meeting on preemption gear and stated that jurisdictions would need to talk to each other regarding what to use.
Scott Rice, ODOT
Scott brought up the explosions under the bridge at 23 by Maple and Houston. U.S. 23 had to be shut down for a period of time because explosions took place under the bridge in an unsheltered persons camp. Small LP tanks are what caused the explosions. The bridge had to be inspected for stability afterward. Scott expressed concerns about jurisdiction and the condition under the bridge. He has talked to his leadership about possible funding to get heavy equipment to clean it up.
Sheriff Matthew Hafey, Sheriff’s Office
The Sheriff’s Office has a new email domain — @pickawaysheriff.gov. Please make sure your contacts are adjusted. They are currently forwarding the old emails, but are uncertain how long that will occur.
10. Meeting Adjournment
Motion to adjourn
Chief Brian Thompson
Second
Greg Myers
Result
Pass
Adjourned
09:45
2026 meetings
January 8, 2026
April 9, 2026
July 9, 2026 — Breakfast and meeting at PPG, group discussion and tour to follow
