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

Glass door to the left, bring wall with a numbers on a placard above large placard with letters and numbers.
Community
4 weeks ago
Marion County Commissioners Receive Update on Southwest Wastewater Services at Workshop

A number of issues will need to be addressed for the existing wastewater treatment facility in the southwestern region of Marion County. As the county grows, the facility will need to be expanded to meet capacity.

Blue and white sky in the background. Tall building, with windows with ornamental palm and a construction fence in the foreground.
Local
4 weeks ago
Ocala City Council Approves Agreement with Developer for the Historic Hotel Marion

The Historic Hotel Marion renovation moves a step closer after unanimous approval from the CRA Agency Board and Ocala City Council regarding the redevelopment agreement between the city and the developer.

In foreground, a paved parking lot, green grass, with sidewalks in front of a building, with windows, columns and door, with the background of a brick-colored wall, a facade featuring letter, numbers and insignia.
Community
4 weeks ago
Marion County Grants Promote Responsible Pet Ownership

Grants provided by Marion County to three local organization have played a huge role keeping animals healthy in the community, while taking on the challenge of overpopulation.

In the foreground is a black light pole with autumn-colored leaves hanging from it and a sign that reads the rules and for Downtown Square Ocala. In the background is a large, open space with a view of a variety of shops and restaurants.
Local
4 weeks ago
Ocala Board to Consider Amending Redevelopment Plans for Four City Areas

The City of Ocala’s Community Redevelopment Area Agency board will consider amending a resolution relating to the community redevelopment plans for four subareas.

The facade of a building, with a off beige trim hanging over the entrance, off beige concrete siding, an insignia handing over the entrance with lettering an image, glass doors in the center background, glass window to the right of a concrete column.
Community
4 weeks ago
Marion County to Consider Request from Tractor Supply for Increased Sign Size

The Marion County Board of Adjustment will consider a variance request from an applicant that would allow for the increase in the size of signs at their new location.

A sign with lettering of different fonts and sizes, with an image, with a tree line in the background.
Local
4 weeks ago
Summerfield Tree Farm Helps Create Lasting Holiday Memories

Nicholas Christmas Tree Farm in Summerfield allows people to take part in a time-honored tradition of cutting down their own tree.

Marion County Growth Services building exterior with department names listed on facade.
Community
1 month ago
Marion County Planning and Zoning Approves Recommendation for 72-Home Development

The Marion County Planning and Zoning Board approved recommendations for a small-scale land use from low residential to medium residential and a zoning request from general agriculture to planned unit development at their meeting on Nov. 24.

Crime & Safety
1 month ago
Four Marion County Fire and Rescue First Responders Arrested for Assaulting Colleague

The Marion County Sheriff’s Office arrested four Marion County Fire and Rescue first responders for their role in the assault of a professional colleague. All four have been terminated.

The facade of a building, with a off beige trim hanging over the entrance, off beige concrete siding, an insignia handing over the entrance with lettering an image, glass doors in the center background, glass window to the right of a concrete column.
Business
1 month ago
Marion Planning and Zoning Approves Recommendation for Ocklawaha Alcohol Sales Permit

The Marion County Planning and Zoning Board recommended approval for a special use permit for a business that would allow them to sell and have on-site consumption of alcohol within 1,000 feet of three religious institutions. The recommendation will now go before the Board of County Commissioners.

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Education
1 month ago
Marion County Schools Update Focuses on Communication and Partnerships

Marion County Public Schools expands partnerships, improves communication and increases community engagement.