Ben Baugh

Ben Baugh is a journalist who has worked across a variety of platforms during his career. A graduate of Ashland University in Ashland, Ohio, he has covered a variety of topics, including politics, public safety, education, religion, entertainment, equestrian sport and sports. Baugh has worked in Ohio, New York, South Carolina and Florida. A resident of Belleview, he can often be found at an equestrian sport venue on his days off. You can reach Ben Baugh at benbaugh@325today.com

A split image showing a kitchen blueprint on the left blending into a real wooden home frame under construction on the right, symbolizing planning and building.
Local
5 months ago
Marion County moves forward with growth plan update after state-mandated review

Commission adopts evaluation report shaping future housing, roads, and land use; comprehensive plan changes expected by year’s end

Murray Hamilton of Raftelis Financial Consultants speaks at a podium during the Ocala City Council meeting, presenting the city's updated utility rate study.
Local
5 months ago
Ocala approves phased utility rate increases for homes and businesses through 2029

Residential bills to rise by $4.33 per month in 2026; commercial users face gradual adjustments as city aims to close cost gaps and plan for future growth.

A well-dressed woman standing behind a podium with a microphone to her left in front of a blue background with lettering.
Local
5 months ago
New broadband expansion brings high-speed internet to rural Marion County

U.S. Rep. Kat Cammack, Spectrum announce thousands of new connections and major community donations to boost access and opportunity in underserved areas.

A man in a blue shirt stands at a podium, in front of a wood platform with people sitting behind it, in front of flags and a large ornamental circular object with the city's insignia on it.
Local
5 months ago
Ocala repeals fluoride ordinance to comply with new Florida law

City Council votes 3-1 to end water fluoridation; resident urges focus on education, access, and nutrition.

Students in graduation caps and gowns smile and cheer while flipping tassels during the Acceleration Academy graduation ceremony.
Education
5 months ago
Marion County Acceleration Academy celebrates 34 graduates with second chances and bright futures

From adversity to achievement, these students proved that with support and flexibility, earning a diploma is possible at any stage of life.

Ocala water tower on a cloudy day, surrounded by trees and utility poles.
Local
5 months ago
Ocala approves updated water and sewer impact fees, adds new charges for service

New fees target service requests, meter replacements, and development-related costs to ensure ratepayer equity and system sustainability.

Local
5 months ago
Horse Farms Forever opposes proposed Ocala sports complex near World Equestrian Center

Group says 236-acre indoor/outdoor venue would threaten low-density zoning, farmland preservation, and equestrian character of the area

A white sign, with blue lettering, with a three-board fence in the foreground, and grass and live oak trees with Spanish moss in the background.
Health & Wellness
5 months ago
Former Morriston rehab site sold for new veteran-focused healthcare campus

Shield Investments and Haven Health plan to renovate 425-acre property into long-term care and residential facility for U.S. veterans.

In the forefront a gymnasium floor, a group of men standing and kneeling in front of a wall with a scoreboard and basketball backboard.
Community
5 months ago
Cops and kids team up for slam dunk success at Hoops and Badges

Ocala’s annual basketball event brings officers, youth, and families together for a high-energy day of teamwork, laughter, and community spirit.

Judge holding gavel in courtroom with two people standing in background.
Local
5 months ago
Federal grant funds evaluation of Marion County’s diversion drug court program

University researchers to assess compliance and effectiveness of specialty court under Bureau of Justice grant.

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