Kenton Lions Club Hosts Sheriff Everhart, Plans Community Projects and More at April Meeting

The Kenton Lions Club held its regular meeting on Wednesday, April 2nd, at the Kenton Elks. 

The meeting was called to order at 6:30 pm by Lion President Jason Van Buskirk with 20 members and a guest present.  

Guest Speaker:  Sheriff Keith Everhart spoke to the Lions about the upcoming levy that failed in November. 

He emphasized that the Levy is a Renewal, Not a “new” tax that has been on the ballot every five years since 2010.  He told members that the wording on the Levy in November was inaccurate and took full responsibility for that. 

Sheriff Everhart informed members that the levy renewal provides 22% or an additional 1.7 million to his budget which is used for the general fund, building operation, payroll and part of the 9-1-1 budget. 

He added that since increasing starting salaries for deputies a few years ago, the department  has been able to retain great staff after losing some to higher paying departments.  Sheriff Everhart told members he feels that he has the best staff in the area.

Under old business, Lion President Jason thanked members who helped with the clean-up at the park on March 21st.  Lion President Jason also shared ideas for installation of the new playground equipment. 

Lion Judd reminded members that the Memorial Day Parade will start at the Armory and end at the Chapel in Grove Cemetery.  He read a letter of the groups participating. 

Lion Gary Whitmer made a motion to donate $500 to the Junior Trophy Bassmasters for the summer program needs.  After a 2nd by Lion Joe,  members voted.  Motion Passed. 

Under New Business, Lion Aaron led discussion on the welcome to Kenton signs and asked for dates to refresh all of them.  After discussion, he asked members to meet at Pioneer Park on May 14th at 4:00 pm to divide and conquer and take care of the signs. 

Lion Aaron is donating the Mulch needed and members should bring gloves and gardening tools.

Lion Mark Wilson and Lion Aaron led a discussion on incorporating the Paper Mache Lion into another Christmas display at the annual Lake of Lights. 

Members discussed enclosing the Lion in a cage like in a circus, what materials should be used and putting it on a trailer to be moved.  A committee was formed to work on the project and consists of Lion Dave Amweg, Lion Aaron Osborn, Lion President Jason Van Buskirk, and Lion Mark Wilson.

Lion Bill Keller presented a Certificate of Membership to Lion Rusty Bingham for his induction to the Kenton Lions Club.

Submitted By: Lion Secretary Rick Collins.