Director of Public Safety highlights Tallmadge Fire Department and welcomes new police officers

In the heart of Tallmadge, Ohio, the city council meeting on March 13, 2025, buzzed with updates and announcements that highlighted the community's commitment to public safety and economic development. The director of public safety took center stage, sharing insights from a recent day spent with the Tallmadge Fire Department. This firsthand experience revealed the department's relentless pace, as he accompanied firefighters on emergency medical service calls and even participated in a fire call, gaining a deeper appreciation for their daily challenges and the critical training they undergo.

Exciting news also emerged from the police department, where two new officers are set to join the ranks. Officer Hunter Chapman, a lateral hire from Springfield Township, was sworn in, with his first shift scheduled for March 17. Meanwhile, Jacob Oberlin, a recent graduate of the Kent State University Police Academy and a member of the U.S. Army National Guard, will officially join the department on March 24. The community is invited to witness his swearing-in ceremony on March 19, fostering a sense of connection and support for the new officers.

The meeting also touched on economic initiatives, with the director of administration attending the Team EO Economic Development ED Now annual summit. This event, held at Kent State's Stark campus, focused on strategies to enhance regional competitiveness and attract business investments, emphasizing the importance of collaboration among local leaders.

Looking ahead, the state of the city address is scheduled for March 27, providing an opportunity for residents to engage with city officials and learn about future plans. The mayor's next after-hours event is set for April 24, allowing citizens to connect with local leadership in a more informal setting.

In a spirit of community celebration, the mayor participated in a ribbon-cutting ceremony for Avala Grill, a new restaurant on Northeast Avenue, alongside council members and local business leaders. The mayor also visited the opening of a new Dunkin' Donuts and celebrated the Girl Scouts' installation of a recycling receptacle at the Tallmadge Rec Center, reinforcing the city's commitment to supporting youth initiatives and environmental stewardship.

As the meeting concluded, it was clear that Tallmadge is not only focused on enhancing public safety but also on fostering economic growth and community engagement, setting a positive tone for the months ahead.