LISBON — The Columbiana County Career and Technical Center (CCCTC) is adding yet another layer of safety for students and staff by authorizing a third person to carry a firearm as needed.

In July, the CCCTC Board of Education passed a resolution similar to the one passed in November of last year that authorizes certain employees to possess a firearm on school property and in designated safety zones.

The resolutions fall in line with parameters outlined in Ohio House Bill 99 passed in 2022 for the arming of school staff.

CCCTC Superintendent Jeremy Corbisello explained that the district is hiring retired Columbiana County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Mike Helman as a substitute safety security patrol.

The resolution passed by the board will allow him to carry a firearm when he serves as substitute on days when School Resource Officer (SRO) Bill McGee is out of the building, Corbisello said.

Helman maintains his commission with the sheriff’s department and qualifies annually with his firearm in addition to meeting other criteria, such as completion of Ohio Peace Officer Training and the required background check, Corbisello added.

“It was just another opportunity to provide a safety force in our building if there were an active shooter or any type of emergency situation,” he said.

According to Corbisello, there are a few times a month when the SRO is not in the building and a backup is needed.

Criminal Justice Teacher Damin Beadnell was authorized by the career center in November of last year to carry a firearm as well, although he does so while still actively teaching.

Bednell also maintains his commission through the county sheriff’s office.

The hiring of Mike Helman as substitute safety security patrol will provide additional backup.

The board approved Helman as substitute safety security patrol for the 2025-26 school year.

Also approved during the July meeting was a change order from R.T. Vernal Paving for the parking lot resurfacing project.

The change order adds $43,469 to the original contract price, bringing the new total for the project to $362,949.

The change order is for the cost of storyline replacement and subsurface repair.

The next meeting was set for 7 p.m. Aug. 19.