CAMBRIDGE, Ohio (AVC News) — Cambridge City Council swore in a new police officer, approved an economic development agreement and discussed proposed Flock camera use, park activities and upcoming community events during its Oct. 19 meeting.
John Lafferty was sworn in as a member of the Cambridge Police Division. Police Chief Peoples welcomed Lafferty, saying he would begin work Sunday alongside experienced officers and receive training with an emphasis on officer safety.
Lafferty said he looked forward to helping the department and community.
During the mayor’s report, Bill Arnett, who leads the Cambridge-Guernsey County Community Improvement Corporation, announced that the Ohio Department of Development had certified a 27-acre site near Gander Road, north of Detroit Diesel’s Plant 2, for potential brownfield funding.
The certification strengthens an effort to secure more than $6 million in grant funding to address abandoned mine issues beneath the property. Arnett said the work could create a flat, developable site suitable for a new business. He thanked the city and council for supporting the application.
Council approved a development agreement concerning a new economic development project on its third reading. Council members also approved ordinances addressing transfers and appropriations, year-end payment certificates and appointments to the city’s designated outdoor refreshment area board.
Aaron Neff was appointed as the liquor permit holder representative on the board, while Austin Warehime was appointed as the non-liquor permit holder representative.
Several financial requests were referred to the Finance Committee, including transfers and appropriations for the fire and police departments, code enforcement, municipal court and the city auditor. The auditor also requested authorization to enter into an agreement with the Mental Health and Recovery Services Board serving Coshocton, Guernsey, Morgan, Muskingum, Noble and Perry counties to provide behavioral health support for first responders.
In other business, council accepted a letter from a resident expressing support for Flock license plate reader cameras, provided they are used appropriately.
During the miscellaneous portion of the meeting, a councilman Evencho also voiced support for the technology, citing its use by the Guernsey County Sheriff’s Office over the past 2 1/2 years. He said the cameras had helped investigators in cases involving arson, sexual assault, drug trafficking, an endangered juvenile and a homicide. Evancho said Police Chief Peoples has established policies addressing access, data retention and consequences for misuse.
Council also heard a report on Parks and Recreation Department activities. Seasonal maintenance and winterization work is underway, and a craft show at the armory was described as successful. Organizers plan to hold future craft shows in the spring at the park’s large pavilion and in the fall at the armory. Breakfast with Santa is scheduled for the first Saturday in December.
Another council member praised cemetery staff for maintaining city cemeteries and thanked James Green and his crew for their work.
The meeting concluded with an announcement seeking volunteers to help set up Dickens Victorian Village displays on the square. The annual holiday festivities were expected to begin Nov. 7, with vendors and activities planned for downtown Cambridge.
Last Updated on October 27, 2026 by AVC News
