hamilton township administration
Looking to grow your own fresh vegetables, herbs, or flowers in a space you can connect with other community members? Don't miss the opportunity to dig in and enjoy the beauty of gardening in Marr Park in our easy-to-maintain 4x4 garden plots. Click the image to learn more.
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Spring is finally here, and we couldn't be happier to welcome the warmer weather, blooming flowers, and longer days! Spring is a time of growth, renewal, and progress, and we're excited for all that's ahead in our community. As our community comes alive with the season, read on for the exciting updates we have to share.
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Township Aggregation. We break down all you need to know.
Check out the dramatic transformation at the Testerman Park courts!
7780 S. State Route 48 Maineville, OH 45039 Phone: (513) 683.8520 Fax: (513) 683.4325 Joe Rozzi - Board Chair Darryl Cordrey - Trustee Mark Sousa - Trustee Leah Elliott - Fiscal Officer Township Administrator Jeff Wright (513) 239.2372 Police Department Scott Hughes - Police Chief (513) 683.0538 (Non Emergency) Fire & Emergency Services Jason Jewett - Fire Chief (513) 683.1622 (Non Emergency) Public Works Director Don Pelfrey (513) 683.5360 Economic Development and Zoning Director - Cathy Walton (513) 239.2371 Assistant Fiscal Officer Ellen Horman (513) 239.2377 Human Resources Manager Cheryl Allgeyer (513) 239.2384 Fire & Zoning Inspector Cory Sanders (513) 683.8520 Parks & Recreation Nicole Earley (513) 239.2391 Cemetery Sexton/PW Admin. Asst. Chrisie Hainey (513) 683.5320 Administrative Assistant Heather Murdock (513) 683-8520
Spring 2025
Construction continues to move forward on new businesses coming to the township, bringing more opportunities for shopping, dining, and services to our community.
fresh vibes in '25
Newsletter
Hastings Court Ferndown Court Waverly Park
Eagle Creek Court Everwood Drive
Abingdon Hall Black Forest Court Bedington Lane Scarborough Court
River's Bend Subdivision
Wedgewood Subdivision
Text
Azure View Court Arbor Glen Court
Wethersfield Drive Wyndham Drive Welbeck Drive
Winding River Boulevard Grand Legacy Drive Masters Row
Turning Leaf Subdivision
Turning Leaf Way Woodbine Court Everwood Drive
Driftwood Court Hidden Oaks Court
Chelsea Court Eversham Chase Brampton Abbey
Township roads are rated annually and prioritized for resurfacing using those ratings.
Michael's Farm Subdivision
2025 ROAD RESURFACING
Wethersfield Subdivision
Click here to learn more about public works
Pediatric dentistry of cincinnati
economic development
McDonald's is breaking ground soon!
6028 oh-48 Hamilton twp, OH 45039
cincinnati school of music 6400 oh-48, suite D Hamilton twp, OH 45039
Shoppes at Grandin
pet supplies plus 6400 oh-48, suite e Hamilton twp, OH 45039
Click here to learn more about Economic Development, including major projects and available commercial properties.
Township Center
chase bank 65 towne center blvd. Hamilton twp, OH 45039
Gameday men's Health 15 US-22, Suite 102 Hamilton twp, OH 45039
Confused by the aggregate? With rising rates, mailers from multiple gas and electric suppliers, and even and door-to-door salespeople pitching their services, it can be electrifyingly confusing! What is Aggregation? In 2011, Hamilton Township voters approved a governmental aggregation program. This allows the Township to negotiate electric and gas rates on behalf of residents and small businesses; essentially grouping everyone together to get a better deal than you'd typically get on your own. The program is: Certified by the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio 100% voluntary- You can opt out an any time, for any reason, with no penalty. What's Happening Now? Our current electricity agreement with Dynegy ends in July. * Our consultant, Independent Energy Consultants, Inc. gathered bids from four energy suppliers. * The Township has chosen Constellation for a new 12-month agreement at a fixed rate of $0.092/kWh. * While electricity prices have risen, the program continues to offer price stability and protection. We're still locked into a great deal with our gas supplier, Direct Energy at a fixed price of $0.594/Ccf. This contract extends through April 2026. What's next? In late May or early June, current participants and newly eligible accounts will receive a letter about the new electric supplier and rate. If you haven't opted out and signed up with a third party supplier, you'll be automatically enrolled. Am I Already Enrolled? Here's how to check: 1) Grab a recent Duke energy bill 2) Go to the billing details section; please note that all customers will see delivery/distribution charges from Duke 3) Look for your supplier charges If you see these charges by Dynegy and Direct Energy respectively, you're enrolled! If it shows a different company, you've enrolled with a third-party supplier or if you see Duke only, you have defaulted to their rate. What if I've Opted Out Before? If you previously opted out and went to Duke's default rate, you are newly eligible and will receive a new letter. If you read the information and decide the aggregate is still not for you, you will need to opt out again because it is a new offer and term. Be patient! You can't opt out or enroll early before the letter is sent. The new electric supplier, Constellation can't answer any questions until the letters go out. Stay tuned to our website and social media for updates when letters are mailed. Want to Compare Rates Yourself? Explore your options! Visit energychoice.ohio.gov and use the Apples to Apples comparison charts to compare rates. Look closely at fixed vs. variable rates, monthly fees, contract length, and early cancellation fees. Questions AFTER You Receive the Letter? Click here for current supplier contact information.
AGGRAVATED BY THE AGGREGATE?
Click here TO LEARN MORE ABOUT the police department
Hamilton Township has been named the 5th Safest Community in Ohio and #1 in Warren County by Safewise.com.
We're proud to announce the Hamilton Township Police Department has again achieved Gold Level Recognition from Lexipol. Lexipol is the nation's leading provider of policy, training, and risk management solutions for public safety agencies. "This recognition reflects our department's unwavering commitment to maintaining current, legally sound policies and providing ongoing training to our officers daily. This recognition isn't just about us-it's about you, the residents we proudly serve. Your continued support and trust allow us to uphold the high standards that earned this honor." - Chief Scott Hughes
Congratulations to the 2025 graduating class of the Citizens Police Academy. This free eleven week course gives residents an inside look at the work HTPD does everyday to keep our community safe. From hands-on training to behind-the-scenes experiences, you'll learn what it takes to wear the badge. This class is held annually beginning in January. Graduates have the opportunity to do a ride-along with an officer and to stay involved with the department and in the community through joining the Citizens Police Academy Alumni Association.
Spring Into the Outdoors, Safely! After a long, cold, and snowy winter, spring has finally sprung! The days are longer, the sun is shining, and it’s the perfect time to shake off those lingering winter blues. Many in our community are heading outside to enjoy all the natural beauty and fun that the season has to offer; from biking around the neighborhood or on the Little Miami Scenic Trail to paddling along the scenic Little Miami River. While getting outside is a great way to stay active and boost your mood, we’d like to remind everyone to enjoy these activities safely and responsibly. Pedal Smart: Bike Safety Tips Before you hop on your bike, take a few moments to ensure it’s ready to ride: Check the basics: Make sure the tires are inflated, brakes are working, the seat is locked at the correct height, and reflectors are secure. Be visible: If you're riding near roads, wear bright or fluorescent clothing so drivers can easily see you. Wear your helmet: Helmets save lives. Between 2009 and 2018, nearly 600,000 traumatic brain injuries from bicycle crashes were treated in emergency departments nationwide, according to the CDC. A helmet can significantly reduce the severity of these injuries. Paddle with Caution: Water Safety Tips Canoeing and kayaking on the Little Miami River are classic spring and summer pastimes and water safety is essential: Wear a life jacket: It could save your life. The U.S. Coast Guard reports that 84% of drowning victims weren’t wearing one. Know the water conditions: The river may look exciting when it's moving fast, but swift currents can be dangerous, especially for less experienced paddlers. A good rule of thumb: if local canoe liveries are closed due to high water levels, it's best to stay off the river. Let’s all do our part to look out for one another and make this spring one to remember for all the right reasons. Whether you're cycling, paddling, or just soaking up the sunshine, a few simple safety steps can go a long way. Here's to a safe and active season. See you out there!
Click here TO LEARN MORE ABOUT the fire department
Click here TO LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR PARKS DEPARTMENT
The new courts offer full-court basketball and combination tennis/pickleball with two pickleball courts, one on either side of the tennis court.
Before
Whether your favorite ball is green, yellow or orange, the multi-purpose courts at Testerman Park are ready for action! Check out the transformation that will bring our community decades of play.
pARK PROGRESS
BALL ABOARD!
Hamilton Township & Maineville Joint Freedom Parade 7.4 | 10:00 am - 2:00 pm | Testerman Park
May 21 22
Fishing with the 5-0 5.3 | 9:00 am - 1:00 pm | Mounts Park
Join us for this day full of fun for all ages at Mounts Park! We're teaming up with HTPD and ODNR for our annual trout release. Bring your fishing rod to perfect your fishing skills or borrow one of ours for your 1st cast. Take a kayak for a paddle, try out your archery skills, and check out wildlife & educational booths. FREE raffle prizes, lunch, and Kona Ice for the kids.
Touch-A-Truck 6.7 | 10:00 am -1:00 pm | Fellowship Baptist
Let's celebrate the end of the school year! Join the HTPD for one free cone for the first 100 children and tell us all about your plans for the summer!
May 3 22
Touch-A-Truck is fun for the entire family! This event gives you an opportunity to have an up-close look, learn, and interact with dozens of vehicles including police, fire, public works, farm and construction equipment. Fun for all ages with loads of exhibits, helicopter landing, demonstrations every hour, and food trucks.
EVENT CORNER
Activities include an up-close look at police equipment and specialized units, taser demo, bike patrol, cyber/social media programs, K9 demo, crash investigations, radar, criminal investigations and much, much more! This week-long program is best suited for children between 5th and 7th grade of the upcoming school year. Click here to register!
July 4 22
June 7 22
Grab your family and bag chair and line the parade route to take in this patriotic event full of fun. The parade will be followed by a spectacular skydiver show (11:30am) with LIVE MUSIC, inflatables, a cool down zone with water slides, games, and food trucks all happening at Testerman Park. Want to be IN THE PARADE OR VOLUNTEER? CLICK HERE!
HTPD Junior Police Academy 6.16 - 6.20 | 8:00 am - 12:00 pm, Daily | HTPD
June 16 22
Cones with the Cops 5.21 | 4:00 pm -6:00 pm | UDF
Reserve your FREE kayak rental here.
Historic
famous photographer - nancy ford cones
For over thirty years, Nancy Ford Cones turned her small farm in southern Hamilton Township into the setting for some of the most creative photographs of her time. At a time when female artists struggled for recognition, she made a name for herself by capturing stunning images of rural life, literature-inspired scenes, and artistic portraits. Often called "The Lady from Loveland," Nancy worked closely with her husband, James, who printed her photos using various techniques and materials. Born in 1869 in Milan, Ohio, Nancy was the middle child of Zorah and Dr. Harry Hammond Ford. At age 7, Nancy's life was turned upside down when her mother left the family. In the years following, Nancy and her family moved frequently before eventually settling in South Lebanon, Ohio, where she discovered her passion for photography. In 1895, her father sent her to work at a photo studio in Fostoria, Ohio, where she took her first pictures. Concerned that she was still unmarried at 25, her father invested in a photography studio for her in Mechanicsburg, Ohio. Unfortunately, her business partner was dishonest, forcing her to return home. Determined to continue, she needed someone to develop her photos. That’s when she met James Cones, a fellow photographer who had just opened a studio in Lebanon. James grew up in Millgrove, Ohio, and studied art before becoming a teacher in Cincinnati. He purchased his first camera while teaching and eventually opened a studio back in Lebanon, where he met Nancy. The two formed both a business and a romantic relationship, marrying in 1900. After running a studio in Xenia for a year, they moved to Covington, Kentucky, and opened another studio. In 1902, their work caught the attention of famous Cincinnati artist, Henry Farny, who walked into their studio and asked them to do his portrait as he had heard of the couple's work. This put them on the map as word got around and began attracting famous actors and prominent Cincinnati families to their studio for their portraits. Tragedy struck in 1903 when Nancy’s father passed away. But that same year, joy entered her life when she and James welcomed their daughter, Margaret. Nancy’s photography soon gained national fame when she won second place in a Kodak competition, beating 28,000 other entries. Over the years, she won 54 photography competitions, especially between 1910 and 1920. Her imaginative works were displayed in every major U.S. city and even Paris and London. Companies such as Kodak and Bausch & Lomb purchased her photos for national ad campaigns and her work appeared in popular magazines such as National Geographic and numerous professional journals.
Tales of the Township
James and Nancy Cones on their 23rd anniversary, taken by John R. Schmidt; collection of Randle & Christina Egbert
Threading the Needle, Nancy Ford Combs
In 1907, the Cones family moved to a 25-acre farm in Hamilton Township, called Roads Inn Farm. Their grand brick house, originally built by Solomon Ertel in the 1840s, was known as "Solomons Temple" due to its size and splendor; along with the fact that Ertel had filled it with a priceless art collection. This became the hub for Nancy’s photography. The farm was home to horses, sheep, pigs, and even ducks and chickens, which often appeared in her images. Over the years, she photographed both locals and famous figures, including President William Howard Taft. These earnings along with her contracts with camera firms including Kodak, which she had a long-standing relationship with for over a decade, provided for their family. Despite her success, Nancy faced prejudice as a female photographer, with some people disapproving of her artistic choices. On the Cone's property, there were maples planted by Solomon Ertel to commemorate the inauguration of Abraham Lincoln and a massive beech tree so large Margaret could enter its cavernous trunk, change farm clothes and emerge as a woodland nymph of Nancy's imagination. Nancy didn't dare show the townsfolk these photos because they were already upset by the alarming display of female ankles in some of her backyard photos. Still, she pushed boundaries and continued to innovate in her craft. In the 1920s, Nancy and James were commissioned by philanthropist Mary Emery to photograph the creation of the new town of Mariemont. They rented their home in Hamilton Township and moved with Margaret to Mariemont for one year before returning to their farm. At the time Margaret was a student at CCM studying piano. In 1927, Nancy and James were commissioned by Film Knowledge Company to create autochromes of wildflowers for educational purposes. These autochromes, which used glass plates to produce color photographs, were some of the most important color works ever done by a female artist at that time. In 1939, James died at the age of 78. He was found by railroad workers clutching the reins of one of his horses while plowing the garden. After his death, Nancy retired from professional photography, as James' darkroom techniques, particularly his use of the gum bichromate printing process to retouch, color, and shade, were an important part of her success. Nancy remained on the farm with Margaret until her passing in 1962 at the age of 92. She was laid to rest beside James and her father at Deerfield Cemetery in South Lebanon.
did you miss our issue about the history of maineville? click here to get caught up!
NEXT ISSUE: The Cemeteries of Hamilton Township
Historic Tales of the Township is researched and written by Dr. Karen Dinsmore. Special thanks to Dan Kindel for his assistance with this article.
Cincinnati artist, Henry Farny, who helped put Nancy & James Cones on the map ,enjoyed world-wide fame for his paintings of western scenes and Indians. Theodore Roosevelt was once overheard saying to him, "The nation owes you a great debt. It does not realize it now but it will some day. You are preserving for future generations phases of American history that are rapidly passing away.
1)
F U N F A C T S
Daniel and Catherine Ertel were one of the first families to settle in southern Hamilton Township. They purchased 110 acres along the Little Miami River for 120 pounds and planted Warren County's very first orchard. In 1840, their youngest son, Solomon, built a magnificent house on that land, known as Solomon's Temple. In 1870, Solomon, his wife, and their two youngest sons, Oscar and John, lived there, along with two farmhands and a servant. Forty years later, in 1910, John Ertel was living with two older siblings near the Cones and was featured in some of their photographs. In 1792, Daniel Ertel purchased 600 acres west of Butler/Warren Road. In 1836, a road was built from that location, extending east across the southern edge of Deerfield Township. By 1848, it reached the Little Miami River, across from the Fields family farm in Hamilton Township. The road was named Fields Ertel Road in honor of both the Fields and Ertel families. The 1867 map of Hamilton Township shows a bridge over the Little Miami River once connected Fields Ertel and Adams Roads; known as Bigham's Ford. By 1910, descendants of the Field family were neighbors of the Cones family, and their daughter, Alice, appeared in some of her pictures.
2)
Nancy had a unique way of signing her photos. She thought her husband James had the more artistic hand so 80% of her signatures were penned by him.
3)
Nancy's daughter, Margaret, who received a Masters Degree from CCM, supported her mother and herself as a music teacher after her father's death and also served as the organist for the Hopkinsville United Presbyterian Church. She remained on the farm keeping her mother's photos intact until her death in 1983.
4)
The Story Teller ca. 1914 John Ertel
Nancy Ford Cones was once ranked among the top three female photographers in the United States. Today, her photos, command thousands of dollars and her collections are on display in prestigious art museums like The Metropolitan Museum of Art, The Smithsonian, and The Chicago Art Institute. You can also find her camera and many of her photographs locally at the Loveland Museum Center. Despite opportunities to move to New York and further her career, Nancy chose to stay in Hamilton Township, where she found inspiration in the beauty and stability of her rural surroundings along The Little Miami River; it fostered her imagination and led to some of her finest photographs. Nancy Ford Cones overcame tremendous heartbreak to make a great impact on the world of photography. In her honor, Old River Road, one of the township’s oldest roads, was renamed Cones Road. Her legacy continues as a testament to her resilience, creativity, and groundbreaking contributions to photography.
The camera in this photo was awarded to Nancy by the Eastman Kodak Company. It was featured in many of her images as Kodak paid her as much as $200 to do so.
Open House
10369 Cones Road, Hamilton Township, Ohio 45140
Visit IndieHollow.com
More information:
July 13th
Indie Hollow is an example of the beautiful reuse of property in Hamilton Township. Once home to a gravel quarry and other heavy industries, the site has been returned to a state of natural preservation in recent years. The outdoor venue, nestled between the Little Miami River and the Bike Trail on Cones Road, provides guests a tranquil retreat for their celebrations.
DID YOU KNOW?
*Indie Hollow is located just steps from where famous photographer Nancy Ford Cones found her inspiration. Though used decades apart, both properties were captivated by the same serene landscape and drawn to nature's quiet beauty.
Construction is well underway on Duke Energy's Natural Gas Modernization Program (NGMP) named the "Maineville Morrow Loop." The project will involve the installation of under five miles of 8" pipeline from Stephens Road to US-22, as indicated by the green route in the project map. Installation will occur between now and the end of June with an anticipated In-Service date at the beginning of August. Duke Energy is committed to ensuring a safe and efficient construction process while minimizing impacts on local residents. The Maineville Morrow Loop project is part of NGMP's ongoing efforts to enhance reliability and meet the growing energy demands in the region. For further details, please contact Duke Energy at duke-energy.com.
Dishin'with Darcy
Directions
Ingredients
Duke Pipeline Project
1 Yellow Cake Mix 3 Eggs 2 Sticks Butter (melted), separated 1 - 8oz. Package Cream Cheese (softened) 1 tsp. Vanilla 1 - 16 oz Package Powdered Sugar 1 1/2-2 Cups Blueberries
1. Preheat oven to 350. Grease a 9x13 pan. 2. Combine cake mix, 1 egg, and 1 stick melted butter and add to the greased 9x13 pan. 3. Beat cream cheese until smooth. Add 2 eggs, vanilla, and the other stick of butter. Beat to combine. 4. Add powdered sugar and mix well. Spoon over cake batter then sprinkle with blueberries. 5. Bake for 40-50 minutes until set in, but still gooey in the middle.
Darcy Vibbard has been a Police Officer with Hamilton Township for 24 years! Darcy has the gift of connecting with our community, always has us smiling, and is a huge animal lover! When she's not working at HT, her and K9 Dexter are volunteering for Buckeye Search and Rescue Dogs.
This melt in your mouth cake will have you swooning for more.
Blueberry Gooey Butter Cake
More information
Warren County Spring Community Shred & Electronics Recycling Day
Mission
Community Partner
www.warrencountyohio.gov/solidwaste
This joint event with WC Records Center & Archives is open to all Warren County residents free of charge. First come first serve.
Get to know
Electronics accepted: Computer equipment, TVs, Batteries 5 Box Maximum for Shredding
Saturday, May 10th 10am-1pm 406 Justice Drive, Lebanon, OH 45036
Latex Paint Recycling Drop-Off Recycling Outlets
Litter Program Education
To implement and administer solid waste and recycling programs designed to increase waste reduction and recycling and reduce the District's reliance on land filling waste for residents and businesses in Warren County