Friday, Nov. 21: Holiday Safety + Housing Expansion + Health Budget
Friday, Nov. 21
Your local news briefing
5 Headlines You Should Know Today
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Holiday Safety: Agencies increase downtown patrols to protect Cincinnati shoppers.
Cincinnati law enforcement is boosting holiday safety downtown. Hamilton County Sheriff Charmaine McGuffey and the Ohio State Highway Patrol are adding deputies and troopers to patrol the urban core. In two weeks, 200 warnings and 15 arrests were issued. Officials aim to enhance security while maintaining public confidence.
Athletic Misconduct: Milford AD blamed for mishandling coach allegations.
Milford High School’s athletic director, Aaron Zupka, is on administrative leave after a third-party report found he failed to report serious sexual misconduct allegations involving two coaches. The case, which includes possession of explicit photos, remains under internal review. Community reactions were mixed at a recent school board meeting.
Housing Expansion: PulteGroup enters Cincinnati-Dayton market, eyes top builder spot.
Homebuilder PulteGroup is expanding into Cincinnati, adding to its Ohio presence beyond Cleveland and Columbus. The company plans to build homes for first-time buyers, growing families, and seniors, aiming to become one of the region’s top three builders. Expansion is led by division president Scott Mairn.
Health Budget: UC Health freezes hiring amid financial strain and flu season.
UC Health has imposed a hiring freeze through year-end due to financial pressures from lower patient activity, budget overruns, and an unfavorable insurance mix. Critical roles and discretionary spending are also on hold. Policies will be reassessed in January ahead of peak flu season.
Restaurant Relief: New Chowdown Cares Fund aids Greater Cincinnati independents.
The Horizon Community Foundation launched the Chowdown Cares Fund to help Greater Cincinnati’s independent restaurants facing rising costs and labor shortages. Donations will support urgent financial needs and strengthen the local food community, including Chowdown Cincinnati members.
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