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Politics & Government
Ohio Redistricting Battle Resumes in Court
On August 20, the Ohio Supreme Court began hearing arguments in the latest legal challenge to the state’s legislative maps. Voting rights advocates say the maps still unfairly favor Republicans despite previous rulings calling for fairness and transparency. GOP leaders argue the current maps comply with constitutional amendments passed by voters in 2015 and 2018. A decision is expected this fall and could affect the 2026 election cycle.
(cleveland.com, Signal Cleveland)
Cleveland City Council Approves Emergency Spending for RTA Upgrades
On August 19, Cleveland City Council voted unanimously to authorize $18 million in emergency funding to the Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority (RTA) for railcar replacement and safety upgrades. The spending bypassed committee hearings under emergency legislation rules, raising concerns from transparency advocates. Council leadership cited urgent equipment failures as justification.
(The Land, WKYC)
Courts & Investigations
Federal Prosecutors Charge Former East Cleveland Officials with Corruption
Two former East Cleveland city officials were indicted on August 22 for allegedly accepting bribes and kickbacks in exchange for city contracts. The U.S. Attorney’s Office says the scheme defrauded taxpayers and funneled money through shell companies. This is the latest in a wave of public corruption cases across Cuyahoga County.
(News 5 Cleveland, Department of Justice)
Business & Economy
Intel Says Ohio Chip Plant Will Open Ahead of Schedule
Intel announced on August 14 that its $20 billion semiconductor plant near New Albany is now expected to begin partial operations in late 2026—six months ahead of schedule. The project is Ohio’s largest-ever private investment and is projected to create more than 3,000 jobs. Officials praised the acceleration as a signal of economic strength in the state’s growing tech sector.
(Columbus Dispatch, Bloomberg)
Public Safety
Columbus Police Body Camera Audit Finds Widespread Noncompliance
A city-commissioned audit released on August 15 found that more than 25% of Columbus police officers failed to follow body camera protocols in the first half of 2025. Violations included turning cameras off during stops and failing to upload footage. The findings have reignited calls for stronger civilian oversight and disciplinary action.
(NBC4 Columbus, Ohio Capital Journal)
Arts & Culture
Ohio State Fair Sees Record Attendance After Return of Live Music
The Ohio State Fair wrapped up on August 11, drawing over 900,000 visitors—the highest since 2017—after reinstating nightly concerts by major acts like Janelle Monáe and Carrie Underwood. Fair officials credit the rebound to new entertainment offerings, family pricing, and expanded public transit options.
(Columbus Dispatch, The Plain Dealer)
Weather & Environment
Toxic Algae Blooms Return to Lake Erie
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) issued a toxic algae alert for parts of Lake Erie on August 18, warning of elevated microcystin levels near Toledo and Sandusky. The blooms, fueled by fertilizer runoff and warming waters, pose risks to drinking water and recreation. Ohio EPA is monitoring conditions and urging boaters and swimmers to avoid affected areas.
(NOAA, Toledo Blade)
