LICKING COUNTY, Ohio — For six years, Etna Township has relied on a contract with the Licking County Sheriff’s Office to provide dedicated law enforcement coverage. That contract expires Dec. 31, and township leaders say a new deal has not been reached.

Residents say they want to keep the current level of police presence as the community continues to grow.

Residents say with the growth of the area — they want to continue having deputies keep an eye on the township. They hope the two sides can reach an agreement.

Longtime resident David Morris said having deputies assigned to the township makes a difference.

“It makes you feel good knowing that they're watching out for everybody,” he said.

Morris, who has lived in the township for 23 years, said he regularly sees deputies patrolling hi

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