WARREN, Ohio – The Trumbull County Planning Commission recently recognized Rex Fee, retiring Champion Township trustee, and Greg Chopko, outgoing Mecca Township trustee.
They were honored as part of the planning commission’s Something Good Initiative, which recognizes individuals and organizations for their contributions to the community.
Fee and Chopko were honored for their decades of public service, leadership and lasting contributions to their communities and Trumbull County.
During his tenure as trustee, Fee guided investments supported by the American Rescue Plan Act, including construction of a new road department garage to support township operations. He also led the acquisition and conversion of a former local building into the Champion Township Administration Building and Community Center, creating a central space for public meetings, programs and family celebrations.
Fee played a key role in negotiating a joint economic development district with the city of Warren, establishing a sustainable revenue source to support public safety services and township needs while easing the financial burden on residents. His collaborative planning efforts further advanced recreation and public health initiatives, including support for a conditional $45,989 Ohio Department of Natural Resources NatureWorks grant to develop a multigenerational outdoor exercise station at a future township park site.
Under Fee’s leadership, community engagement expanded through events such as Trunk-or-Treat, Food Truck Nights and holiday gatherings, strengthening community connections.
Chopko helped expand emergency response services through regional EMS collaboration with Bazetta Township and the city of Cortland, providing 24/7 coverage and improved response times for residents. He also supported the first comprehensive update to the Mecca Township Comprehensive Plan in more than 30 years, aligning local planning with modern standards promoted by the American Planning Association.
Ongoing planning efforts under his leadership include development of a new township town hall with dedicated meeting space and accessible child care services, advanced in partnership with the Trumbull County Planning Commission.
Chopko’s public service extends beyond township government through his work with the Red Cross Disaster Action Team and decades of conservation leadership. His efforts with state and federal partners have resulted in the planting of more than 20,000 trees and the preservation of natural resources across the region. His advocacy for long-term infrastructure planning, including public water and sanitary sewer expansion, reflects a commitment to protecting Mosquito Lake State Park and safeguarding water quality for residents and downstream communities.
Pictured at top: From left are Julie Green, director of the Trumbull County Planning Commission; Rex and Cathy Fee; and Nicholas Coggins, assistant director of the planning commission.