Five things to know for Wednesday, Sept. 10

1️⃣ Ohio fares poorly in college free speech rankings

Six Ohio universities received a failing grade for free speech, according to the new 2026 College Free Speech Rankings.

The rankings of 257 colleges and universities, including 13 Ohio schools, from the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression, found that the state’s average speech-climate grade is F, the same as the national average. Wright State University ranks 49th and fares the best of the Buckeye State schools ranked.

2️⃣ Township: No more data center construction — for now

Trustees in Union County’s Jerome Township last week voted in favor of a nine-month moratorium on new data center construction.

“My primary focus is protecting Jerome Township’s infrastructure and prioritizing higher-value development,” Trustee Wezlynn Davis said, per WOSU. “While seemingly appealing, data centers offer minimal jobs and a low return on investment.”

3️⃣ PUCO allocates $1 million for Sardinia grade crossing safety upgrades

The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio recently approved more than $1 million in federal tax dollars for grade crossing safety upgrades in the village of Sardinia. By June 3, 2026, the Cincinnati Eastern Railroad will install flashing lights and gates, along with surface reconstruction.

4️⃣ Finding for recovery issued against former Hocking County chief sheriff’s deputy

A finding for recovery of $1,041.62 was handed down against a former Hocking County Sheriff’s Office chief deputy. Auditors concluded that Caleb Moritz’s severance included 12 improperly accrued vacation hours, as well as additional unused vacation hours exceeding the allowance established in the department’s labor contract. The sheriff’s office’s office manager is also liable for $443.40 of the recovery amount.

5️⃣ SNAP Beverage Workgroup to make recommendations

The SNAP Beverage Workgroup is expected to make its recommendations to Republican Gov. Mike DeWine by Sept. 28. The group is compiling its recommendations for a federal waiver to stop Ohioans from using SNAP benefits to buy beverages with little or no nutritional value and that contribute to obesity, type 2 diabetes, and hypertension. The waiver request must be submitted by Oct. 28.