CHILLICOTHE, Ohio — A petition is gaining momentum in Ross County, where citizens are opposing a recent decision by the Board of Commissioners to adopt building codes. The controversial Resolution No. 044-24 seeks to enforce the Residential Code of Ohio within county limits, a move that would require permits for various residential projects, such as constructing sheds, adding rooms, or even parking campers. This new regulation would also impose penalties for seemingly minor infractions, like overgrown grass or unauthorized digging.
The resolution passed with unanimous support from Republican Commissioners Dwight Garrett, James “Oody” Lowe, and Jack Everson, aims to establish consistent building practices across the county. By securing certification from the Ohio Board of Building Standards, Ross County would gain the authority to oversee residential construction and conduct inspections based on state guidelines.
Lowe is the only commissioner seeking re-election this November. Garrett will be retiring.
According to the commissioners, the decision to implement the Residential Code is meant to ensure uniformity in building regulations. They emphasized the urgency of the measure by declaring it an emergency to guarantee immediate enforcement.

However, the resolution has sparked a significant backlash among county residents, particularly those living outside city limits. Many feel the new regulations are overly intrusive and should have been put to a public vote rather than decided solely by the commissioners.
In response, over 3,000 residents have signed a petition calling for the repeal of the resolution. Some locals have even expressed their frustration in creative ways, such as Rich Moodey Jr., a resident who posted a photo of plywood painted with a middle finger, accompanied by the message, “Ross Co. Commissioners Fine This!”

The growing petition and public outcry highlight a deep divide between the county’s leadership and its residents over how best to manage development and property regulations. As the debate continues, it remains to be seen whether the commissioners will reconsider the resolution in light of the public’s objections.
The next public meeting for the commission is this Tuesday, at 9 a.m. in their chambers.
The petition can be found by following the link here: Petition · Demand the Reversal of Resolution 044-24 in Ross County – Ross County, United States · Change.org