The future of mobility is taking shape in Central Ohio, and it's happening faster than most people realize. A groundbreaking partnership between Lextant and the Marysville/Union County Port Authority is transforming the Automotive and Mobility Innovation Center (AMIC) into a hub for transportation innovation, drawing attention from companies worldwide.

Ohio's Beta District—stretching along the 33 corridor between Ohio State University and the Transportation Research Center—has quietly become a premier testing ground for autonomous vehicles, drone technologies, smart infrastructure, and connected transportation systems. The fiber-equipped corridor enables the real-world testing of vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication systems. At the same time, Marysville itself has become a laboratory for smart city implementation, featuring connected intersections that communicate directly with passing vehicles.

What makes this initiative unique is its unwavering focus on human-centered design. As Chris Rockwell, CEO of Lextant, explains, all the AI and automation ultimately need to serve human needs. "Mobility is fundamentally about freedom and empowerment," he notes, emphasizing that technology must be designed to enhance human capabilities rather than fight against natural behaviors. This approach addresses the trust gap that has slowed adoption of autonomous features—people reject technology that feels ambiguous or unpredictable.

The Innovation Park is already home to companies developing life-saving technologies. Pairwave is creating drones for first responders, RMV is pioneering robotic roadway repair systems that keep maintenance workers safe, and Ease Logistics is advancing commercial truck platooning for improved fuel efficiency. These innovations don't just represent technological advancement; they're solving real problems and potentially saving lives.

Beyond creating a hub for established companies, AMIC serves as an incubator for startups and a talent development pipeline that's creating opportunities for engineers and innovators. The facility is open to the public for innovation workshops, design thinking sessions, and collaborative meetings, inviting broader community participation in shaping the future of transportation.

Want to see firsthand how mobility innovation is transforming our region? Visit the AMIC or Beta District websites to learn more about tours, events, and opportunities to engage with the technologies that will reshape how we move in the coming decades—all this and more on Central Ohio Matters. Don't forget to download, like, and share to help us grow.

Support the show

The controversial plan to use $1.7 billion from Ohio's unclaimed funds to build a Cleveland Browns stadium takes center stage in this episode. Attorney Mark Dan breaks down why this decision violates constitutional protections while explaining how citizens can search for and claim their own unclaimed money—money that rightfully belongs to them, not the state.

Beyond this political controversy, we dive into pressing summer health hazards with Delaware County Health Commissioner Garrett Ghiozzi. Learn why this year's tick season is breaking records, and how to remove a tick properly. Ghiozzi also shares surprising information about increased cases of rabies found in bats and the risks they pose, including what to do if you find one in your bedroom.

The conversation shifts to practical advice for managing summer electricity costs with AEP Ohio's Julia Ivinskis. Discover how Ohio's deregulated electricity market allows you to shop for better rates, and learn about the cutting-edge tools that let you track your home's energy usage down to 15-minute intervals—potentially saving you significant money during peak air conditioning season.

These three distinct conversations offer vital information for every Central Ohio resident: protecting your constitutional rights to unclaimed money, safeguarding your family's health from seasonal hazards, and managing your household budget during expensive summer months. Subscribe to Central Ohio Matters for more in-depth conversations about the issues shaping our region's future.

Support the show

Revolutionary War connections run deeper in Delaware County than most residents realize. As America approaches its 250th anniversary, Delaware County Historical Society Executive Director Donna Meyer reveals the fascinating links between our community and the nation's founding that have remained hidden in plain sight for generations.

When the cash-strapped new American government couldn't pay Revolutionary War soldiers with money, they compensated them with "bounty lands" - including what would later become Delaware County. The more prestigious your military rank, the more acreage you received. These land grants directly shaped our community's development, with many veterans selling their properties to speculators who would eventually establish settlements. Moses Bixby, the town's founder, acquired numerous such deeds before planting the town of Delaware in 1808. Even today, our street names - like Winter Street, named after Bixby's wife's maiden name (Witter) - reflect this founding history.

Perhaps most remarkable is the discovery that over 100 Revolutionary War soldiers are buried throughout Delaware County. William Warrington, interred at Mill Creek Cemetery near Ostrander, served as one of George Washington's personal bodyguards and reportedly intercepted poison intended for the general - potentially altering American history. Warrington, who fathered 17 children through four marriages, represents just one of countless stories waiting to be uncovered.

The Historical Society has launched several initiatives to celebrate America's 250th birthday, including mapping Revolutionary War graves, creating cemetery driving tours with costumed reenactors, and establishing a Student Ambassador Program for high school students. These young history enthusiasts complete volunteer hours with local historical organizations and attend special classes on America's founding to earn ceremonial graduation cords.

Explore this rich heritage yourself by visiting the Meeker Museum (housed in an 1823 home built by Revolutionary War veteran Forrest Meeker), the Nash House Museum, or the historic jail during First Friday tours. The Delaware County Historical Society offers walking tours, driving guides, and research resources to help uncover the revolutionary history hiding beneath our feet.

Connect with your community's revolutionary past and join in celebrating America's 250th anniversary through these upcoming events and historical explorations. Visit delawareohiohistory.org to learn more about how our local story intertwines with the nation's founding narrative.

Support the show

The extreme summer heat is upon us, and its effects ripple through our communities in ways that extend far beyond discomfort. We're tackling this timely issue from multiple angles to help you navigate these challenging conditions.

Federal policy shifts are threatening Ohio's growing clean energy economy. Alex Zorniger from Power to Hydrogen shares how proposed changes to energy tax credits in the "Big Beautiful Bill" could derail job creation and force companies to redirect business overseas. With solar manufacturers already reconsidering their investments and international companies crossing Ohio off their expansion lists, the economic stakes couldn't be higher for our region's clean energy future.

Staying cool without breaking the bank is possible with strategic approaches to energy use. Julia Ivinskas from AEP Ohio walks us through practical solutions like setting thermostats to 78 degrees, running heat-generating appliances during cooler parts of the day, and ensuring ceiling fans rotate counterclockwise to maximize cooling efficiency. AEP's smart thermostat program offers immediate discounts and ongoing incentives for participating in energy-saving events during peak demand periods – a win for both consumers and grid stability.

The health risks associated with extreme heat deserve serious attention. Delaware County Health Commissioner Garrett Guillozet explains the critical differences between heat exhaustion and potentially life-threatening heat stroke, with special precautions needed for children and seniors. His timely reminders about never leaving children or pets in vehicles – where temperatures can reach 125 degrees within just 30 minutes – could save lives during this heat wave.

Summer brings additional concerns beyond heat. Learn about Delaware County's mosquito surveillance program tracking West Nile virus and the alarming increase in tick-borne illnesses like Lyme disease. Practical tips for protecting yourself and your family from these health threats complement our comprehensive approach to summer safety.

Join us for these essential conversations about navigating the challenges of Central Ohio's summer.

Support the show

How does a small Midwestern city rebound from decades of economic hardship to become North America's Strongest Town? The remarkable transformation of Marion, Ohio offers a masterclass in community resilience, citizen-led development, and the power of incremental progress.

Regional Planning Director Evelyn "Evie" Warr-Omnis shares the philosophy that propelled Marion past 49 other towns to claim this prestigious award: identify a need, listen to citizens, take small actions, and repeat. This humble approach acknowledges the resource limitations of smaller communities while emphasizing their greatest strength – determined citizens willing to roll up their sleeves.

• Marion's approach: see a need, take small actions, and repeat
• Citizen initiatives like the PB&J Truck and Exploratorium children's museum demonstrate grassroots problem-solving
• Historic buildings saved through community efforts now serve as downtown anchors
• Founders Park created from demolished buildings now functions as town square and event space
• Local businesses collaborate rather than compete, creating a downtown destination
• Innovative housing solutions include converting upper floors of downtown buildings and rehabilitating abandoned homes
• "Deed in escrow" program grows local developers by selling foreclosed properties that buyers must renovate
• Partnership with vocational school builds construction skills while creating new housing
• Despite limited resources, Marion demonstrates resilience:

Marion's journey demonstrates that transformation doesn't require massive resources – it requires listening to citizens, taking consistent small actions, and believing in your collective ability to overcome obstacles. To learn more about Marion's initiatives or explore opportunities, contact Regional Planning at 740-223-4143 or visit downtownmarion.com.

Support the show

Senator Brenner pulls back the curtain on Ohio's legislative process, sharing significant wins for wildlife rehabilitation and consumer protection while breaking down what matters most in the massive state budget bill moving through Columbus.

The interview begins with a deep dive into Senate Bill 152, which addresses a critical gap for wildlife rehabilitation centers. Currently unable to humanely euthanize severely injured animals due to opioid crisis legislation, these centers must hire veterinarians, causing delays, increased suffering, and higher costs. The bill that passed unanimously out of the Senate creates a pathway for properly trained staff to administer euthanasia when necessary, and will potentially become law before the end of June.

Equally important is the Senate's consumer protection effort through Senate Bill 155, which addresses real estate "wholesaling" practices where buyers purchase homes without disclosing their intention to resell them at a higher price immediately. Rather than banning the practice, the legislation requires transparency, particularly in protecting vulnerable homeowners, such as seniors and those in economic distress.

The conversation shifts to the 5,565-page state budget, where Senator Brenner highlights property tax relief measures including expanded homestead exemptions, a flatter income tax structure, and school funding guarantees. The Senator articulates an innovative approach to funding economic development using Ohio's $4.8 billion in unclaimed funds rather than direct tax dollars, with built-in protections to ensure returns on investment.

Throughout the discussion, we see how legislative choices directly impact Ohioans, from managing property tax burdens for seniors to addressing the statewide housing shortage through zoning reforms and allocations from the housing trust fund. For listeners concerned about school funding, the Senator provides context on the significant increases in per-pupil spending despite what he says are declining student populations in many districts.

Want to follow these developments? The Senator explains how to access the full budget bill and summary documents at ohiosenate.gov, with final negotiations between the House, Senate, and Governor concluding by the June 30th deadline.

Support the show

Affordable housing in Delaware County has reached a crisis point, with average home prices exceeding $400,000 and rental rates skyrocketing beyond what working families can afford. In this eye-opening conversation with Brandon Feller, President of the United Way of Delaware County, we explore how this critical issue impacts community sustainability and what is being done to address it.

Brandon reveals the harsh reality many families face—spending 60-70% of their income on housing leaves them vulnerable to financial disaster when unexpected expenses arise. "We're at a tipping point," he explains. "We're negatively impacting the community by not having a diverse housing stock."

The discussion covers the partnerships driving affordable housing development, the persistent challenge of NIMBY (Not In My Back Yard) attitudes, and United Way's advocacy at township, state, and federal levels to create policy change. From advocating for zoning reforms that enable accessory dwelling units to fighting for the release of $70,000 in federal funding for food and shelter, United Way tackles systemic barriers while providing direct support.

We also explore United Way's broader impact through programs like their after-school initiative, which provides safe spaces for children from challenging home environments. And their Backpacks for Scholars program, which provides school supplies for more than 2,400 students of all ages.

Curious how you can help? Visit liveuniteddelawarecounty.org to learn about volunteer opportunities, sponsorship options, or to donate directly to programs making a tangible difference in Delaware County residents' lives.

Support the show

Step into the dynamic world of Sunbury, Ohio as City Administrator Daryl Hennessey reveals how this small town is managing its dramatic evolution from village to city status. Four years after crossing the 5,000-resident threshold, Sunbury faces unique challenges balancing explosive growth with preserving its cherished small-town character. Topics covered include the following.

• The city adopted a charter giving it more local control over decision-making processes
• Assuming responsibility for state routes through the city created new maintenance obligations
• Sunbury spans about seven square miles with a disproportionately large geographic footprint relative to its population
• The city is actively diversifying its tax base away from 75% residential property valuation
• Amazon Web Services is making a $2 billion investment in a data center on the east side of Sunbury
• Approximately 2,200 new housing units are in various stages of development, with almost half being multi-family or non-traditional single-family homes
• Council has committed more than $3 million to develop JR Smith Park with active recreational amenities
• Major summer events include the Farmer's Market, Memorial Day Marketplace, 4th of July celebration, and Sunbury Sizzle and Sounds in August
• Delaware County Transit is helping with workforce access by offering flexible $2 rides from Sunbury to nearby destinations in Delaware.

For more information about development projects and upcoming events, visit www.sunburyohio.org or contact City Administrator Daryl Hennessey at dhennessey@sunburyohio.org.

Support the show