Tasers sought for Fairfield police

FAIRFIELD - Fairfield soon could be joining the growing number of Greater Cincinnati police departments armed with Tasers.

Police Chief Michael Dickey has requested $25,000 to buy 23 of the nonlethal weapons, one for each police cruiser, as a pilot project. Council is expected to approve the purchase in a month.

"They are becoming very prevalent," Dickey said. "I hope the word gets out that police mean business with these, and they'll use them."

Hamilton police have used Tasers for two years. Cincinnati bought 1,100 Tasers in January, two months after Nathaniel Jones died in a confrontation with police. Cleves bought two Tasers for village officers last month.

Wal-Mart construction gets under way in July

WEST CHESTER TWP. - Construction of a Wal-Mart supercenter at I-75 and Cincinnati-Dayton Road is scheduled to begin in July, so the store can open next spring.

Wal-Mart will complete the purchase of 25 acres from Neyer Properties in the next month, says Tom Wilson, Neyer development director. When the company opens the 203,000-square-foot store and gas station, a smaller store on Tylersville Road will be closed.

Neyer will retain 40 acres at the site for nine restaurant, bank or other business locations. The complex will be called The Highlands, instead of the previously announced Market Square, Wilson says.

Public ideas wanted for Deerfield project

DEERFIELD TWP. - The township is seeking public input to three proposed sites for a new administration building.

Residents can view the plans and give their opinions during an open house March 30. The event will run from 7-8:30 p.m. in the Landen Station meeting room, 3292 Montgomery Road.

Officials have discussed renovating Landen Station for office space or offices at either a park or on undeveloped township property on Montgomery Road.

Mariemont plans 63rd annual town meeting

MARIEMONT - The 63rd annual town meeting will be at 4 p.m. March 21 at Mariemont Elementary School, 6750 Wooster Pike.

Mayor Dan Policastro will present the State of the Village Address. The event is open to the public. Details: (513) 271-7458.