Health Commissioner Launches Investigation into Heating Concerns Affecting Community Well-Being

Health Commissioner Andrew Henry (left) listens to Jefferson County Board of Health President Anthony Mougianis at the board’s meeting. — Christopher Dacanay

STEUBENVILLE — At a recent meeting, Health Commissioner Andrew Henry provided updates on the ongoing heating problems at Heritage Place apartments. Many residents have been without heat since early December due to boiler issues.

Four tenants have taken legal action against the apartment’s owners, claiming violations concerning safe and livable conditions. A judge has mandated that the owners either find temporary housing for affected tenants or restore heating immediately. The preliminary hearing has been postponed until February 7, allowing the owners to prepare their case.

During the meeting, Henry explained that while this matter is primarily a landlord-tenant dispute, he felt it necessary to look into the situation due to the freezing temperatures. He noted, “We want to help, but we must avoid assuming responsibility given the legal context.”

On Sunday, Henry was contacted by a concerned citizen and connected to a lawyer from Legal Aid, who provided information about the residents’ needs. The regional manager of Heritage Place reported that space heaters were available, but no alternative housing was offered.

Henry visited Heritage Place and confirmed that maintenance was prepared to supply space heaters to those in need. He also reached out to the Jefferson County Emergency Management Agency about providing cots for anyone requiring temporary shelter, though they suggested hotels would be a better option due to limited resources.

The board discussed how long the heat issues had persisted, with Henry stating he had heard varying reports, but most residents had been dealing with the problem since December. He expressed concern that legal actions might deter residents from seeking help for fear of retaliation.

In addition to addressing the heating crisis, the board voted to contract with the City of Steubenville for plumbing inspections. This marks a shift, as the city had previously provided its inspector for health department use. With the city inspector’s retirement, the health department hired Victor Dominic Cingolani as their plumbing inspector.

Henry praised Cingolani’s expertise and noted he would not be able to handle permits or service calls in his dual role to avoid any conflicts of interest.

After the meeting, the board held an executive session to evaluate Henry’s performance. Board President Mougianis later mentioned that Henry is doing an exceptional job, as reflected in the positive feedback from staff.

Kelly Wilson, director of finance and administration, presented a report on the department’s finances, detailing balances by month and year. The board approved several items, including:

• An amended contract with Health Department Information Software to better align with departmental needs.
• A contract with Primary Solutions for tracking employee time.
• A partnership with the Stark County Health Department for the Ohio Buckles Buckeyes program to support car seat installations.
• A memorandum of understanding with Trinity Health System for emergency support.
• Funding for Henry’s training in Columbus.
• Multiple purchase orders for necessary items and services.
• Updates to the salary schedule, including changes to certain positions.
• Adjustments on previously granted advances for various health initiatives.