Savana Capp

A Portage County politician is helping shape the conversation around data centers at the state level.

In addition to the closures of West Park and West Main elementaries, Ravenna City Schools might be introducing another building change.

Local legislators have been busy this spring, advocating for a variety of bills addressing everything from Black maternal health to water quality in the Great Lakes.

Steve Demetriou (R-Bainbridge Twp.) and Heidi Workman (R-Rootstown) introduced H.B. 710, legislation that addresses the public costs and community impacts associated with data center development in Ohio. As large-scale data centers continue to expand in the state, the legislation aims to protect taxpayers, ratepayers, farmland and local communities from expenses associated with economic development.

In the first two months of 2026, U.S. Rep. Emilia Sykes (D-Akron) has been active in speaking up for her constituents, as well as Americans nationally.

Ravenna City Schools announced the plan for housing the district's students next school year following the closure of West Main Elementary. Ravenna City Schools will have its K-12 students in three buildings next year: K-2 at Willyard Elementary, 3-6 at Brown Middle School and 7-12 at Ravenna High School. 

The Portage Park District has two main goals: conserve the rich natural history of Portage County and provide opportunities for it to be appreciated and enjoyed.

Streetsboro’s Ward 4 Representative Lisa McDaniel submitted a letter of resignation on Nov. 5, ahead of a move out of the city. At its Nov. 24 meeting, council voted to have a familiar face step into that spot: Justin Ring.