OVRDC Spring Full Commission and Election of Officers Held in Brown County
WAVERLY, Ohio –The Ohio Valley Regional Development Commission (OVRDC) hosted its Spring Full Commission Meeting and election of officers luncheon on Friday, March 27, 2026, in Brown County at The Venue on Lake Grant near Mount Orab.
OVRDC Chair Barry Woodruff (Brown County) and Executive Director Stephanie Gilbert welcomed 70 attendees, including commission members, local officials, community leaders, and partners from across OVRDC’s 12-county region.
The event provided an opportunity for regional leaders to connect, discuss ongoing economic and community development efforts, and participate in the annual election of Commission officers and Executive Committee members.
Guest speaker Clay Baker, owner of HM Defense Technology, provided an overview of the company’s operations in Brown County and highlighted their work manufacturing weapons and defense components for the U.S. Government and NATO allies. District 17 State Senator Shane Wilkin also addressed the Commission, providing a brief update on statewide issues and emphasizing the importance of regional collaboration through organizations like OVRDC, drawing on his experience as a former Highland County Commissioner and past OVRDC Chair.
During the meeting, the Commission also conducted its annual election of officers and Executive Committee members. Beginning April 1, 2026, Mayor Luke Feeney (Ross County) will serve as Chair of the Commission, Bonnie Batchler (Clermont County) will serve as Vice Chair, and Paul Haller (Jackson County) will continue in his role as Treasurer.
The Commission expressed its sincere appreciation to outgoing Chairman Barry Woodruff for his seven years of dedicated service and leadership as an officer of the Commission and looks forward to his continued service on the Executive Committee.
