Ep. 45 — Batavia’s Fire District Move, Zoning Updates and A Literacy Wake-Up Call We start with a quick set of local updates, including a Batavia Township resolution that signals the township is taking the idea of forming its own fire department seriously. We also preview two Batavia Township zoning commission hearings focused on how the township handles previously approved planned developments and proposed updates to the SR 125 special overlay district. After that, we head to Loveland for a positive one, with applications open for Loveland U, the city’s citizen leadership academy. Interview — Cassie Carter of Letters 2 Literacy Cassie Carter, founder and executive director of Letters to Literacy in Batavia, joins the show to talk about what she calls a looming literacy crisis and why so many kids need reading support outside of school. Cassie explains how Letters 2 Literacy grew from a single Facebook post into a center now serving more than 200 kids per week. We get into the “science of reading,” why explicit phonics instruction matters, how gaps in early reading skills can snowball into confidence and behavior issues, and why some students can make it to high school without a strong foundation. Cassie also walks through what sessions look like at the center, how tutoring works, and how families can get started. NewsBatavia Township fire district: Trustees approve a resolution creating a township fire department funding district. This is a signal in the ongoing tension around the joint fire and EMS arrangement with the Village of Batavia. Batavia Township zoning, Article 46: Zoning commission continues a public hearing on a proposed Article 46 focused on administration of previously approved planned developments. The goal is to preserve enforceability of PD approvals made before Article 36 was repealed by voters and clarify procedures for permits, amendments, and compliance. Batavia Township zoning, SR 125 overlay: Another hearing continues work on updates to Article 34, with special attention on the SR 125 special overlay district. Draft changes aim to modernize and clarify development standards, design requirements, and review procedures for the corridor.  Loveland U: The City of Loveland opens applications for Loveland U, a 10-session citizen leadership academy running February through May on Wednesday evenings. It includes behind-the-scenes stops with city departments and partner organizations. Cost is $99 and dinner is included.Events Clermont County History & Museum Day, America 250 Open House at Promont House, Sip & Paint at Promont House, Holiday Cryptids & Hot Chocolate, Jump (Van Halen tribute) at Little Miami Brewing, Clermont County Winter Bird Count, Maplefest at Cincinnati Nature Center, and a DIY artist charcoal workshop at Clingman Park. Follow on Facebook & Instagram, and signup for the Thursday newsletter.FacebookInstagramNewsletterIf the show brings you value, consider supporting us!Donate