Defiance County Economic Development outlines the site’s current status, long-term potential, and commitment to transparency and responsible planning. The conversation is about ensuring Defiance remains competitive for future investment while maintaining responsible development standards and protecting community interests. DEFIANCE, Ohio - The discussion surrounding the Elliott Road site is not about advocating for a specific data center project. While the Community Improveme

I appreciate the passion I have seen from community members who want to protect Defiance’s future, our residents, and our resources. That passion speaks to the pride people have in this community, and it is something I deeply respect. When it comes to data centers or any major development project—I strongly believe the right approach is to build and maintain a framework that protects both our community and our future opportunities. One of the primary reasons Defiance has expe

Executive Director Column About AI - - - Toy Story 5 Says It’s About Toys… But It’s Really About All of Us Feeling Replaceable! At first glance, Toy Story 5 sounds like another classic Pixar adventure—funny, heartfelt, and full of familiar faces. Woody, Buzz, Jessie, and the gang are back. And this time, the toys are facing a shiny new rival: technology. That might sound like a kids’ movie problem. It’s not. In my role as Defiance County Economic Development Director, I see t

You know that feeling when you’re around someone who just makes everything feel a little lighter—supported, cared for, hopeful? That was Darrell Handy, and sadly, he passed away unexpectedly recently. Darrell Handy Darrell was a longtime community leader in Defiance and the surrounding area—someone who made a lasting impact everywhere he served. Throughout his career, he wore many hats: working at Titan Tire in Bryan, serving as Executive Director of the Defiance Area Chamber

Laurie McCann One face has been a constant of faith and service in the Defiance healthcare field for as long as many people can remember. Laurie McCann, community relations manager, is celebrating 50 years at the Defiance Clinic/Mercy Health Defiance. She said it’s hard to put into words how she feels about reaching this milestone. “I feel humbled, grateful and deeply honored,” she uttered. “Defiance Clinic/Mercy Health has never been just a workplace – it has been a ministry

As the old year winds down, many individuals think about what they would like to do in the new year, and hitting the gym is on the top of many lists. Defiance County has the right gym to meet any needs or resolutions. Here’s a look at some of the gyms and fitness centers the county has to offer. Defiance Area YMCA , 1599 Palmer Dr., Defiance “We want our community to know that the YMCA exists to strengthen every person who walks through our doors in body, mind and spirit,”

My favorite Christmas movie? Hands down — Elf with Will Ferrell. One year, I was watching it with my three daughters, and we got to the part where Buddy the Elf is heading to New York to meet his biological dad. Just before he leaves the North Pole, a deep-voiced Narwhal pops out of the icy water and says, “Buddy, I hope you find your dad!” I turned to my girls and said, “Wouldn’t it be cool if Narwhals were real?” Cue the laughter. “Uh, Mom… they ARE real.” I was defiant. “O

President Trump recently proposed a 50-year mortgage, and it’s already stirring up debate—from Wall Street boardrooms to coffee shops in Defiance County. Shared via Truth Social, the idea casts him as a modern-day FDR—who popularized the 30-year mortgage—suggesting this new term could unlock homeownership for more Americans. But is it a game-changer for rural communities, or just another headline? A 50-year mortgage would stretch payments over five decades, lowering monthly c

Defiance County is a place of quiet beauty and vibrant community, no matter the season. Winter hushes the landscape under a blanket of...

Defiance County Released the 2024 Community Health Assessment: What does the health of Defiance County residents look like? POWER...

Defiance, OH — August 21, 2025 — Tessenderlo Kerley, Inc. has officially opened its newest liquid fertilizer production plant in Defiance, Ohio, marking a major leap forward in sustainable agriculture for North America. Photo by Tessenderlo Kerley Strategically built on a 50-acre site, the advanced facility will manufacture key crop nutrients—Thio-Sul®, KTS®, and K-Row 23®—to support growers across the U.S. and Canada. This expansion not only boosts cross-border access to hi

Whenever I walk into a local restaurant or business, people don’t recognize me as the Economic Development Director for Defiance County....

It could happen with the help of AI. Earlier this month, I was invited to attend the 2025 Jacket Summit at Defiance College. The Summit...

A leading full-service mechanical contracting firm has announced plans for a new facility in Defiance, Ohio, to meet increased demand and significant growth opportunities within the industry. (News Release From RGP) Titan Mechanical has purchased a new facility that will add 30,000 square feet of fabrication space. The company is investing more than $3 million and creating 24 new jobs, allowing it to have a larger footprint in the western corridor of the 17-county region. Ti

Economic development is the lifeblood of a thriving community, driving prosperity, job creation, and overall quality of life. I remember...

There’s always room for pie … especially if it comes from Bud’s in Defiance. For more than 85 years, Bud ’s Restaurant has been providing...

Defiance County’s Economic Development recently announced the latest round of small business grant winners, proudly sponsored by Premier...

Just mention the sculptured wooden bar, friendly atmosphere or maybe a Tom & Jerry and everyone in Defiance knows what’s being talked...

(By: Erika Willitzer – Defiance County Economic Development) In any community—be it a neighborhood, workplace, school, or...

If your question isn't listed, please email: Erika@DefianceCountyED.com Where is the Mega Site? First Quality wants to site their next...