Mayor Provides Update Regarding Civic Center Closure Due to Gas Odor

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

February 3, 2026

MEDIA CONTACT

Delaynie Potts

Village Clerk-Fiscal Officer and Assistant to the Executive

Telephone: (740) 742-2121, Ext. 1000

delaynie.potts@villageofrutland.org

RUTLAND, Ohio — Mayor Tyler Eblin is announcing the Rutland Civic Center will remain closed through the remainder of today, February 3, 2026, due to a gas leak identified by Utility Pipeline, near the rear of the building.

"Police and public service personnel noticed a gas odor shortly after arriving to work this morning, prompting our Street Commissioner to contact the gas company," comments Mayor Eblin. "Utility Pipeline has confirmed a natural gas leak near the rear of the building, which will require excavation and repair."

Mayor Eblin says the Village utilizes natural gas to heat the building, and all heating systems have been shut off. Any rooms with a gas odor have been properly ventilated.

According to Street Commissioner Grubaugh, Utility Pipeline crews will arrive on site at approximately 5:00 P.M. to begin repairs. Mayor Eblin anticipates on reopening the building once repairs have been completed, and the building is heated to a "suitable" temperature.

The incident is not expected to impact the Rutland Valentine's Dance scheduled for Saturday, which will continue as scheduled, according to Mayor Eblin.

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