When he won four years ago in his race for Belmont County Commissioner, J.P. Dutton possessed goals for the residents, and not only does he believe he and his two colleagues have accomplished them, he is now aware of how much more work there remains.
Dutton is only the ballot for a second term on the Commission, and he is hoping Belmont County voters offer him the chance to continue in the position.
“While I strongly believe that we have a accomplished a great deal in a short amount of time, we are at a critical juncture in Belmont County,” the commissioner said. “COVID-19 has negatively impacted sales tax revenue for 2020, which could have ramifications into the next few years depending on how we adjust and operate next year. We have made strides in water and sewer infrastructure and will be moving dirt early next year on the first phase of critical projects that will last a generation. Our work in regards to economic development has reached a crucial phase as well.
“We completed a local package for the PTT project, which would be the largest financial investment ever made in the State of Ohio,” he continued. “We have led numerous discussions on development possibilities tied to the project as well as potential opportunities outside of the oil and gas industry. We need to continue this work as a region for the betterment of all of our communities.”
Experience Counts
Dutton owns much experience working with federal and state government officials during his work career, and he feels he has applied that know-how as a commissioner since taking office in January 2017. The eight years he spent as a congressional staffer on Capitol Hill also allow him a familiarity when handling the federal infrastructure grants the Commission has gained during his tenure.
“I love my community, and we love raising our children here,” he said. “Each of us wants to better our community, and I believe I could add value as a public official. I learned a great deal in my education and work experience that applies directly to serving in the role as a commissioner. My education focused on finance and business administration, and that is why I have been able to add a great deal to financial discussions.
“As a Congressional employee, I focused on economic development and worked with local officials in 16 counties, including Belmont County on federal funding on various projects, like water/sewer, roads, hospitals, and colleges,” Dutton explained. “I personally witnessed what worked for some communities and what did not for others. I have applied those lessons here.”
While in the private sector, Dutton delved into the energy industry in the United States, yes, but also across the world.
“With Leonardo Technologies, my work focused on global trends in the energy sector as well as advanced energy technologies, particularly in coal and natural gas. I understand the energy industry and the opportunities that remain ahead,” the commissioner said. “Ultimately, I feel that Belmont County has tremendous opportunity ahead, particularly for its future generations, if smart decisions are made on the local level. I can contribute to the effort of ensuring a promising future for our county and the people who live here.”
What’s Next?
For nearly a decade, Belmont County residents have continued to hear about a possible petrochemical “cracker” plant in Dilles Bottom. Initially, it was Royal Dutch Shell that examined the site of First Energy’s Burger Power Plant, and then it was Thailand-based PTT Global.
Earth has been sculpted thanks to millions of dollars in grants issued by JobOhio, and a plethora of residential properties have been purchased, as well, but there were several delays, and now the pandemic has stalled the progress many were witnessing throughout 2019 and in the beginning of 2020.
Dutton, however, remans confident in that project and many more.
“We are going to be working on some major projects over the next several years. As I had mentioned, we have several water and sewer projects breaking ground in 2021,” he explained. “We will begin looking at our next phase of projects, as well. We have been in several discussions with Sheriff Dave Lucas in regards to our existing jail and the possible need for expansion. If we proceed, it will likely be the costliest building project in Belmont County’s history.
“This project will take a great deal of examination to make sure that it is planned and completed in a manner to avoid long-term issues that some other counties have faced when tackling jail issues,” Dutton continued. “We also anticipate a final decision on the PTT project that will require economic development and energy expertise in order to maximize future potential developments that will benefit the entire Ohio Valley.”
It’s about the future, Dutton insisted, and that is why he is hopeful Belmont County voters will return him to the Belmont County Commission.
“I am honored to serve the people of Belmont County,” the commissioner said. “I take my job and its responsibilities extremely seriously, and that will never change. I am proud of my campaign.
“Belmont County deserves strong discussions about the issues that are facing us each day,” Dutton added. “I will continue to discuss these important matters, as well, so we can address them in a way that focuses on our long-term future.”
