Workers handed out turkeys on Saturday, Nov. 22, outside New Deliverance Temple in Richmond. The temple will hand out hams on Dec. 20. Bishop George Bennett Sr. said the giveaway occurs every year before Thanksgiving and Christmas. “The need is there,” Bennett said. “It is our community, and we love our community.” The giveaway is […]
Local news and updates from Wayne County, Indiana reportersRichmond

Richmond, Indiana is the county seat of Wayne County and sits in the eastern part of the county near the Ohio state line. Full of rich history, vibrant culture and beautiful landscapes, the city offers a wide variety of experiences, neighborhoods, events and community opportunities to residents and visitors alike.
There’s always something new happening in Richmond, and the Western Wayne News team is there to cover it. Our reporters bring updates from local government meetings, school boards, sports teams, colleges and universities, small businesses, non-profit organizations, performing arts events and much more. Below you can find the latest news, information, scores and updates.
Hayes Arboretum recognized for best practices
Hayes Arboretum in Richmond has been upgraded to Level II accreditation by the ArbNet Arboretum Accreditation Program and the Morton Arboretum. The recognition highlights Hayes’ progress in meeting professional standards for arboreta and botanical gardens. The arboretum first earned Level I status in 2021 and has expanded its collection to 109 labeled native tree specimens. […]
Lady Red Devils drop NCC opener to visiting Anderson
The Richmond girls basketball team hosted the Anderson Lady Indians on Friday, Nov. 14, in the North Central Conference opener for both teams. Richmond built a 15-9 lead after the first period, but Anderson came back to take a 21-18 halftime lead. Richmond fought back to tie the score at 34-34 entering the final period […]
RCS teachers’ union votes for contract
Shortly before the deadline to begin mediation, Richmond Community Schools’ teachers’ union voted to ratify its tentative collective bargaining agreement. Richmond Education Association announced Thursday, Nov. 13, via social media that its members had voted that evening to ratify the tentative agreement. REA said its bargaining team reached a deal with RCS at 11:20 p.m. […]
High schools offering financial aid help
Free financial aid sessions are planned at five high schools for prospective and current students considering vocational/technical or college classes. During Wayne County FAFSA Days, participants can get free hands-on assistance in completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). All high school seniors and parents, current college students and adults considering college are […]
RP&L pursues 2 equipment purchases
Two capital purchases for its line department could cost Richmond Power & Light more than $475,000. During its Nov. 3 meeting, the utility’s board approved spending $301,338 for a 71-foot bucket truck, awarding the bid to Altec Industries of Indianapolis. The bid was opened during the board’s October meeting. Altec bid $307,338 for the bucket […]
UPDATED: City council vote supports new food and beverage tax
An 8-1 vote on Monday put Richmond one step closer to enacting a new food and beverage tax. Richmond Common Council passed a resolution Nov. 17 supporting a city food and beverage tax. If adopted the tax would provide a new funding source for city parks, trails and Whitewater Gorge activation. Council will likely consider […]
Wood carving revealed Nov. 4 in Old Richmond
It’s rare to see a grand piano or historic staircase carved into a tree, but a nationally recognized master woodcarver has done just that. Dayle Lewis’ new public art was celebrated Tuesday, Nov. 4, at the corner of South Third and B streets near downtown Richmond. Leaders of the 4th Street Foundation say the Richmond […]
Mayor Oler: ‘We’re working the comprehensive plan’ goals
Richmond Mayor Ron Oler thinks some cities put their comprehensive plans on a shelf after developing them, and doesn’t intend to let that happen here. “We’re working the comprehensive plan; that’s the best part,” Oler said Oct. 29 after the Richmond Advisory Plan Commission voted 7-0 to recommend Richmond Common Council approve the update of […]
Students add flair to the snow fleet
Some Richmond and Wayne County snow plows will look different when you see them plowing roads this winter. You might see one telling you to “Think Spring,” with a vibrant sun. Or, one with a viper. Or, one with snowmen. A project allowed schoolchildren from Richmond Community Schools, Centerville-Abington schools and Western Wayne schools to […]
