[firstname],
As summer winds down, I wanted to take a moment to reflect on some of the highlights from the past few months. August, in particular, gives me the opportunity to spend uninterrupted time back home—away from Washington and back in the communities of Ohio’s 12th District.
From touring private-sector expansions to visiting our world-class county fairs, this summer had it all. In this update, I’ll share a few moments that stood out and the conversations that will help guide my work back on Capitol Hill.
Strengthening Health Care Access
Last month, I joined Senator Bernie Moreno and local leaders at Genesis Hospital in Zanesville to highlight how the One Big Beautiful Bill Act and working families tax cuts strengthen rural health care. Genesis is a lifeline for families across Muskingum County and beyond, and this bill delivers historic investments to help hometown hospitals continue providing high-quality care.
A cornerstone of the bill is the new $50 billion rural hospital fund, which is expected to bring billions in additional resources to Ohio. These investments will help facilities like Genesis keep their doors open and services strong, despite the unique challenges of operating in rural communities.
Later in August, I also visited Southeast Healthcare in Delaware, a Federally Qualified Health Center serving families across Delaware County. FQHCs like this one help ensure patients—regardless of income or insurance status—can access primary care, dental, and behavioral health services close to home. This structure has successfully connected Ohioans to quality care that would normally be out of reach. |
Investing in our Workforce
I was thrilled to join the Coshocton County Career Center for the ribbon cutting of its brand-new 11,000-square-foot expansion.
This state-of-the-art facility houses the utility line worker program, which is already preparing students for in-demand careers that keep our communities powered and connected. Beginning next fall, it will also become home to a new applied machining and advanced manufacturing program, giving students hands-on experience with the skills that drive Ohio’s manufacturing future.
This $4.4 million project is a major investment in the next generation of Ohio’s workforce, equipping students with technical expertise while helping local employers fill critical jobs in high-demand fields. |
Celebrating Ohio’s Energy Industry
I was honored to deliver the keynote address at the Guernsey County Oil & Gas Appreciation Luncheon, where we celebrated the significant impact of Ohio’s thriving energy industry.
The shale revolution has transformed our state—especially in eastern Ohio—creating thousands of good-paying jobs and contributing more than $55 billion annually to our economy. With the Utica and Marcellus shale formations now supplying over 40 percent of the nation’s oil and gas, Ohio is helping secure American energy independence and strengthen national security.
As demand for energy continues to rise, Ohio is stepping up to meet it with both resources and a skilled workforce. |
Agriculture Roundtable at the Hartford Fair
At this year’s Hartford Fair, I sat down with farmers, producers, and community leaders for a roundtable on the challenges and opportunities facing Ohio agriculture.
A key focus was the next Farm Bill. While several important provisions were included in the One Big Beautiful Bill—such as updates to safety net programs, new conservation funding, and permanent tax relief for family farms—Congress must still complete a full reauthorization.
We also discussed labor shortages, rising input costs, rural broadband, and trade policy. Access to international markets and fair enforcement of trade rules remain vital for Ohio’s producers. These conversations are invaluable as I continue to advocate for policies that strengthen agriculture, protect family farms, and ensure our producers fair shot to compete globally. |
Delivering Safe, Reliable Water to Muskingum County
I was honored to join Muskingum County commissioners and local residents this summer for the ribbon cutting of a new pump station at the intersection of Ohio 555 and Irish Ridge Road.
Years in the making, this project includes 18 miles of new water line, a pump station, and a storage tank, connecting more than 250 households to the county water system for the very first time. Families who once relied on unreliable or dried-up wells will now have access to safe, reliable drinking water.
The project was funded in part through a $1.75 million federal grant facilitated by my office’s annual community project funding process, along with local and state support. |
An Expansion in Licking County
For nearly 50 years, Covestro has been part of the Licking County community, producing plastics used in everything from medical devices to car bumpers.
What started with just 20 employees has grown into a team of more than 140—and this summer they announced a major expansion at their Newark facility. This investment will add new production lines, strengthen the company’s role in America’s supply chain, and create more good-paying jobs right here at home.
With operations across the globe, Covestro could have invested anywhere—but they chose to grow here in Ohio. |
Supporting Seniors
I recently visited the Muskingum County Center for Seniors, where I saw firsthand how federal programs help provide caregiver support, home-delivered meals, and transportation for older Ohioans.
As our nation prepares for a growing senior population, it is more important than ever to strengthen these programs and ensure older adults have the resources they need to stay healthy, independent, and connected. |
Stirling Ultracold in Athens
I also had the chance to visit Stirling Ultracold in Athens, a company that makes ultra-low temperature freezers used in biotech and life sciences.
During the COVID pandemic, the company was acquired by a private equity firm that planned to eventually close its Ohio operations and relocate elsewhere. Thankfully, Clayton Newman stepped in. Having previously worked as a consultant for the company, Clayton understood its value and the importance of its employees. He purchased the company in 2024 and committed to keeping operations in Athens.
What stood out most during my visit was the employee-first culture. Clayton knows every employee by name, and it shows—people are proud of their work, engaged, and motivated to innovate. Today, Stirling Ultracold remains one of the county’s largest employers, offering high-quality, highly technical jobs crucial to Ohio’s economy. |
New Energy Facilities in Guernsey County
As chairman of the House Energy Action Team, one of my top priorities is ensuring energy remains affordable and reliable for Ohio families. By tapping into the God-given resources beneath our feet, we can do just that.
This August, I joined local leaders for the ribbon cutting of Infinity Natural Resources’ new natural gas well site a few miles east of Cambridge. While the natural gas revolution first hit Ohio nearly two decades ago, this project marks an important new chapter—using untapped lands for energy exploration and development, and further cementing Ohio’s place as a national energy leader. |
Manufacturing Innovation in Fairfield County
I also had the chance to tour Alleguard in Lancaster, a leader in the EPS foam industry. Their products range from construction insulation to protective packaging and cold-chain logistics.
What impressed me most was their commitment to innovation and efficiency. They’re investing in new technology to recycle and reuse otherwise wasted EPS foam while continuing to expand operations here in Fairfield County. |
Celebrating 4-H at County Fairs
One of the highlights of my summer was visiting county fairs across the district, meeting bright 4-H members, and seeing their hard work on display.
Growing up, I spent summers on my family’s farm in Adamsville and was an active 4-H member myself. The lessons I learned about responsibility, leadership, and perseverance still guide me today.
It’s inspiring to see those same values alive and well in the next generation. The dedication and discipline of these students should make all of us proud. Next time you visit a fair, I encourage you to stop by the 4-H exhibits—you’ll be impressed by their creativity and commitment. |
Let's Stay Connected
As always, let me know if I can ever be of assistance to you or your loved ones by calling my office at (614) 523-2555 or sending me an email.
Be sure to update your contact preferences, so I can keep you informed about the latest from Washington, DC, and across the region.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Troy Balderson
Member of Congress
|
|
|
|
