CALDWELL, Ohio (AVC News) — Noble County commissioners recently toured a newly constructed teaching kitchen inside the multi-agency building on State Route 821 near Caldwell, a facility designed to support educational and life-skills programs across several county agencies.
The kitchen will serve Noble County Extension 4-H and family and consumer sciences programs, as well as the Department of Job and Family Services and the Noble County Department of Developmental Disabilities.
Gloria Llewelyn, superintendent of the county’s Department of Developmental Disabilities, said her department funded the kitchen’s construction and smart-technology appliances. The total cost exceeded $100,000.
Llewelyn said the investment will benefit multiple agencies by providing a shared space to improve the services they offer.
Jim Sholtis Construction served as general contractor, while Jason Forshey completed the plumbing work.
Lori Harris, family and consumer sciences educator, plans to offer canning and freezing classes for youth and adults. The classes will use vegetables grown in the facility’s garden and community gardens throughout the county.
Sami Hull, Noble County Extension 4-H educator, said 4-H participants will learn cooking, cleaning and food preparation skills. Day camps and workshops will be scheduled for youth and other interested community members.
The Department of Job and Family Services also plans to use the facility’s new washer and dryer to teach children and adults proper clothing-care techniques.
In other business, Noble County Engineer Todd Coss met with Caldwell Village Administrator Nicole Culbertson and Center Township Trustee Don DeVolld to discuss an upcoming Ohio Public Works Subcommittee meeting.
Shari Rayner and Morgan Rayner of the Noble County Health Department told commissioners that Noble Cares plans to expand and revitalize its efforts in 2027. The group meets on the second Tuesday of each month from 1 to 3 p.m. at the health department.
Jennifer Mackie, executive director of GMN Tri-County Community Action Committee, also met with commissioners to discuss the organization’s senior services agreement.
Last Updated on October 22, 2026 by AVC News
