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Category: Meeting Minutes

Meeting Minutes (8-7-23)

The Council of the Village of Woodsfield

                                                                August 7, 2023

The Council of the Village of Woodsfield met in Regular Session on August 7, 2023.   

I.  Roll Call:

      Present:  Council Members; Dale English, Tom Kirkland, Anthony McDaniel, Leann Harper, Tiffany Ramsay, Matt Schaber, Mayor Carol Hehr, Fiscal Officer Lori Cunard, and Village Administrator Kevin Brooks.

     Absent:  Solicitor Ryan Regel

II.   Pending Meeting Minutes Approval:

        Dale English made the motion to accept the July 17, 2023 meeting minutes.  Tiffany Ramsay second.   Motion passed 6-0. 

III.  Registered Visitors/Guest:

       None

 IV.  Old Business:

     DORA – Solicitor Ryan Regel does have the DORA application prepared.  The next step is to have a Public Hearing.  The Public Hearing has to be held 30 – 60 days after publication of the notice.  The notice has to be published for 2 consecutive weeks.  Mayor Hehr asked Kreg Robison, MC Beacon, if he could publish the notice in the paper this week, Thursday, August 10th and Thursday, August 17th.   The Public Hearing will be held on Monday, September 18th  at 5:00 p.m..  After the Public Hearing we will approve the DORA application and it will be sent to the Division of Liquor Control for approval of a Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area, an Ordinance will be adopted, and we will be good to go.  Village Administrator, Kevin Brooks asked Chief Corey Jones to verify with the 4 establishments that they are still participating in the DORA. 

V.    Administrator Report:

     Village Administrator Kevin Brooks reported that the downtown punch list items are being worked on.  There was a lot of concrete poured downtown today; Church Street is done, Sycamore is done, and they started closing in the islands.  There is still no word on when the green arrows will be in for the traffic signals.   There was another outage with the box at McDonald’s, we need to get that box replaced with one from downtown.  Mayor Hehr said she has had lots of compliments, all of them good.  Kevin Brooks said we should be getting the rest of the benches for downtown; they are supposed to be ready this afternoon.  We will get them picked up and have them placed soon. 

     Kevin Brooks reported that we are down 2 employees in the Street Department due to medical leave.  This only leaves one employee, but we will wait a few months to see how things are going and closer to winter months before doing anything.  The plan is to have everyone back and operational by October 1.  Mr. Brooks said if we have to move some guys around from other departments, we will do that and we will not put the burden on one department. 

     Kevin Brooks reported that we are hiring in the Water Department.  The Committee has met numerous times and has come to a unanimous consensus.  The Committee is recommending the hiring of Dustin Kirkland as Water Operator in training effective August 8, 2023 at a rate of $13.00/hr.  Dustin Kirkland will be up for review at 6 months and 1 year and licensure requirement after 1 year.  On the recommendation of the Committee, Dale English made a motion to approve the hiring of Dustin Kirkland as Water Operator in training effective August 8, 2023 at a rate of $13.00/hr.  Anthony McDaniel second.  Tom Kirkland – abstain.  Leann Harper – no.    Leann Harper spoke up to say that she would like to voice her opinion and does not agree with the decision to hire Dustin Kirkland.  She does not agree to re-hire someone who has already been employed with the Village no matter who it is and does not agree with hiring a family member.  Kevin Brooks said that the committee took into consideration and discussed all of her concerns, but they wanted to hire the best candidate for the position, and they felt Dustin Kirkland was that person.  Mayor Hehr said that our nepotism policy is only when hiring a family member within the same department.  Leann Harper said she understands that, but she still disagrees with the decision.  Kevin Brooks assured her that her concerns were discussed, they

had a lengthy discussion about it but the committee feels they chose the best candidate for the job position.  Motion passed 4-1. 

VI.   Fiscal Officer Report:

     Fiscal Officer Lori Cunard reported that the Auditor, James Bates, will be in tomorrow to complete more of the audit. 

     Lori Cunard said there is a Resolution in Council packets regarding the establishment of a Utility Deposit Fund.   Kevin Brooks asked her to explain it in more detail for Council members.  She explained it is being done to be more accountable for the utility’s funds and ensure we are properly accounting for the funds. 

     Lori Cunard asked for Council approval to pay off the loan at Citizens National Bank for the Ford F-450 in the amount of $2,816.53 from the Street Department Fund.  Anthony McDaniel made a motion to pay off the Citizens National Bank loan for the Ford F-450 in the amount of $2,816.53 from the Street Department.   Tom Kirkland second.  Motion passed 6-0. 

     Lori Cunard said she would like a meeting with department heads to discuss next year’s budget.  Kevin Brooks said he would organize it for this coming Monday morning staff meeting.  In a few weeks the Fiscal Office will be meeting with Chris Kerby to start looking into next year’s budget.

VII.  Committee Chair/Council Reports:

      Dale English – Nothing to report.

     Tom Kirkland – Nothing to report.

     Anthony McDaniel – Nothing to report.

     Leann Harper – Nothing to report.

     Tiffany Ramsay – Nothing to report.

     Matt Schaber – Matt Schaber said he gave everyone a flyer from Rhonda Koslik who is a member of the Public Participation Committee.   The flyer contains ideas for the skins for the controller boxes.  Matt Schaber reported that no one attended the meeting or called him regarding ideas for the boxes.  Matt Schaber reported that the magnetic skins from M.A.C.O. are about $10/sq. ft.  He stated that other businesses he checked with have comparable pricing so he would like to stay local and go with M.A.C.O.  Mayor Hehr asked if that price includes the print on the skins and it does.  Matt Schaber said he will be meeting with Leann Harper and deciding on a final design and get the price per side.  Anthony McDaniel asked where Mrs. Koslik had got her ideas from, and Matt Schaber said people had gone to her with the ideas.  Kevin Brooks said he thinks we are missing an opportunity to partner with the school art program and come up with something more artistic for the boxes.   He thinks it would be a good community-based project and he thinks the kids would enjoy it.   Mayor Hehr would like to leave one box and open it up to the community because there are a lot of talented artists in the community.  Mayor Hehr also stated that the Community Strong Committee is not involved in this project.  Matt Schaber said it was interpreted that they were involved because of how the meeting was advertised.   Anthony McDaniel said he agrees with reaching out to the school, he said there are 16 sides between the 4 boxes so if local artists would like to get involved that is fine too.   Matt Schaber did say that M.A.C.O. said they would not be able to do the skins until mid-September.  Anthony McDaniel asked if we will expect the school or  artists to incur the costs of coming up with a design and Kevin Brooks said no, we will cover the costs.   Mayor Hehr asked Matt Schaber if he is going to come up with the criteria and who will be judging and making the decisions.  Matt Schaber said yes, he would.  Anthony McDaniel said he would be happy to help with it. 

VIII:  Solicitor’s Report:

     Solicitor Ryan Regel is absent. 

  Mayor Hehr said at the last Council meeting we passed the Resolution for the Police Department Levy to go on the ballot and it has been delivered to the Board of Elections.  Mayor Hehr asked Chief Jones to write up a paragraph regarding the levy which stated that they are seeking a 3-mil levy on the November 2023 ballot.  Funds generated from the levy will be utilized to maintain police department operations and for purchasing and maintaining police vehicles and other equipment used directly in the operation of the police department.   Chief Jones wanted Council to know how much the department appreciates Council allowing them to put the levy on the ballot.  It is crucial to the department and the Village.  Chief

Jones stated that even in small towns such as ours, crime is at all-time highs and the employment of qualified officers willing to fill the positions is at all-time lows.  He stated that a part of this levy will be used for the retention of our officers, to keep the good officers we have, they are very pro-active and the crime rate in the Village reflects what a good job they are doing.   We also want to make sure we have up to date, reliable equipment for the operations of the department.   Mayor Hehr stated that we are very fortunate to have the officers we have, and we appreciate what they do. 

IX:   Mayor’s Report:

     Mayor Hehr asked for a motion to approve the payment of bills.  Leann Harper made the motion.  Matt Schaber second.  Motion passed 6-0.

     Mayor Hehr asked for a motion to approve the Mayor’s Court report, July 2023.   Anthony McDaniel made the motion.  Tom Kirkland second.  Motion passed 6-0.

     Mayor Hehr asked for a motion to approve the Income Tax Report, July 2023.  Dale English made the motion.  Leann Harper second.  Motion passed 6-0.

     Mayor Hehr asked for a motion to pass Resolution #2023-07, A Resolution to Create a Utility Deposit Fund 5781 for the Village of Woodsfield and Declaring it an Emergency.  Anthony McDaniel made the motion.  Matt Schaber second.  Motion passed 6-0.  

     Mayor Hehr would like to thank Andy Copley, Street Superintendent, and the Street Department for putting down the base for the gazebo at the walking trail.  She said it should be delivered soon.  They also put up another piece of exercise equipment and a picnic table. 

     Mayor Hehr said it was talked about at the last staff meeting regarding how the guys in all departments respond so quickly whenever they are called out during the night or on weekends and she really appreciates them.

     Anthony McDaniel asked if anyone had ever thought about measuring out the walking trail and putting in distance markers.  Kevin Brooks said we had talked about a counter and found one but had not done anything about it, but he said putting in distance markers should be easy to do.  Mr. Brooks asked if they wanted the markers at tenths or quarters of a mile and Anthony McDaniel replied tenths.  He said he has been going up to the trail and has been very surprised by the amount of people using it.  Mr. Brooks also asked if everyone thought it would still be a good idea to put a counter up there and everyone agreed.   Leann Harper said she had an individual make a suggestion to her to get a  weatherproof box and a sign in sheet stating you were there.  Mayor Hehr said she is looking for a grant to do a storybook trail.  She said at different parts of the trail there would be a book that kids would read as they go around. 

     Kevin Brooks asked if the meeting on Monday, September 4th, Labor Day is going to be changed to Tuesday, September 5th.  Mayor Hehr said she would need a motion to change the meeting date.  Tiffany Ramsay made a motion to change the Council meeting from Monday, September 4th, 2023 to Tuesday, September 5th, 2023.  Matt Schaber second.  Motion passed 6-0. 

     Kevin Brooks said Ryan Regel wrote up a new lease agreement for the BMV.  The new lease agreement states that they will still be paying the same monthly rent as always but will be paying all utilities and the lease will be effective as of September 1 and runs through 2025.   Mayor Hehr asked for a motion for the new BMV Lease Agreement beginning September 1, 2023 through 2025.   Tom Kirkland made the motion.  Leann Harper second.  Motion passed 6-0.

     Mayor Hehr asked for a motion to vacate the following alleys:  South Fourth St.-(5) alleys, alley east side of Buckio’s Addition running between E. Marietta St. and Church St., alley north side of Parry and Lude Addition.  Anthony McDaniel made the motion.  Leann Harper second.  A Public Hearing was held at 5:00 p.m. today before the meeting, no one attended and there were no comments.  The Council

meeting was held open for 15 minutes for comments and there were no comments received at that time either.  Motion passed 6-0. 

X.  Un-registered Visitors:

     None

 XII. Adjourn:

     The Mayor asked for a motion to adjourn the meeting.  Leann Harper made the motion.  Dale English second.  Motion passed 6-0.  The meeting was adjourned at 6:05 p.m.

ATTEST:

___________________________                                                 ____________________________

 Carol Hehr, Mayor                                                                                  Lori Cunard, Fiscal Officer                                                                                      

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Meeting Minutes (7-17-23)

                                        The Council of the Village of Woodsfield

                                                             July 17, 2023

The Council of the Village of Woodsfield met in Regular Session on July 17, 2023.   

I.  Roll Call:

      Present:  Council Members; Dale English, Tom Kirkland, Anthony McDaniel, Leann Harper, Tiffany Ramsay, Matt Schaber, Mayor Carol Hehr, Fiscal Officer Lori Cunard, and Village Administrator Kevin Brooks.

     Absent:  Solicitor Ryan Regel

II.   Pending Meeting Minutes Approval:

        Dale English made the motion to accept the July 6, 2023 meeting minutes.  Tom Kirkland second.   Motion passed 6-0. 

III.  Registered Visitors/Guest:

       None

 IV.  Old Business:

     DORA – Solicitor Ryan Regel was absent for the meeting so updates on DORA are tabled until the next meeting.

V.    Administrator Report:

     Village Administrator Kevin Brooks reported that July 27th @ 9:00 a.m.  is the walk-thru on the downtown project and a punch list will be done from the walk-thru.  The only hold up as of now is they have ordered green arrows for the north/south direction on Main Street.  There will be a fourth clip that goes on the bottom of the traffic light signal that will be an arrow to signify the north/south traffic to turn left.  Until the arrows are delivered and installed, the traffic pattern will stay the same.  Once the arrows are installed the traffic pattern running north/south will be opposite of each other which will add 18 seconds to the total cycle of the signal.  ODOT has said they will work with us on adjusting the timing as needed because there are some concerns over the extra 18 seconds during the school year when the buses are running and there is extra school traffic.  The concern is the east/west traffic lanes will back up during the extra timing of the north/south lanes of traffic.  Currently, they are demoing the old traffic signal poles and taking out the bases of them.  Once they are out, Shelley and Sands will come in and complete the concrete and paving and the project will basically be done.  

     Leann Harper asked about the back in parking regarding trucks.  She said people have commented that when trucks are backed in all the way to the curb the bed of the truck is out over the sidewalk.  She asked if it is a problem and if they are actually taking up sidewalk space.  Kevin Brooks replied that there are some instances where they are over the sidewalk, but he does not think it is an issue.  He said we have only had one instance since the back in parking has begun where a truck backed in and actually touched one of the decorative light poles.  Leann Harper asked if we could get bumpers to stop them from backing in too far.  Kevin Brooks replied that we could get stop bars, but they are costly, and he does not think ODOT will provide them for us, but we can ask.  He said if this does become an issue and we think they are needed we can check into getting the stop bars but as for now he does not think there is a problem.  Kevin Brooks said Chief Corey Jones will keep a watch on this and if it becomes a problem, he will let us know. 

     Mr. Brooks said we are still waiting on the brackets for the “Back in Parking Only” signs and as soon as they come in the signs will be put up.  Kevin Brooks also said that once the traffic pattern is completed, the issue with the bushes at the front of the islands that Tom Kirkland brought up a couple weeks ago will be resolved.  Mr. Brooks would rather wait for the completion of the traffic pattern and let the issue resolve itself rather than take out the bushes, Council agreed.   

VI.   Fiscal Officer Report:

     Fiscal Officer Lori Cunard reported that there is an Ordinance in council packets.  Leann Harper asked if the Ordinance is for adjustments to line items for the mid-year to which Lori Cunard replied it is.

      Mayo Hehr asked for a motion to pass Ordinance #08-2023, An Ordinance Providing for Amending and Revising Specific Line-Items in the Appropriations of Expenditures for the Village of Woodsfield

for the Calendar Year 2023 and Declaring an Emergency.   Leann Harper made the motion.  Anthony McDaniel second.  Dale English – yes, Tom Kirkland – yes, Tiffany Ramsay – yes, Matt Schaber – yes.  Motion passed 6-0.

     Mayor Hehr asked for a motion to suspend the rules and pass Ordinance #08-2023 by its second reading, declaring it an emergency.   Anthony McDaniel made the motion.  Leann Harper second.  Dale English – yes, Tom Kirkland – yes, Tiffany Ramsay – yes, Matt Schaber – yes.  Motion passed 6-0.

     Mayor Hehr asked for a motion to suspend the rules and pass Ordinance #08-2023 by its third reading, declaring it an emergency, and adopt.  Tiffany Ramsay made the motion.  Dale English second.  Tom Kirkland – yes, Anthony McDaniel – yes, Leann Harper – yes, Matt Schaber – yes.  Motion passed 6-0.  Ordinance #08-2023 adopted. 

VII.  Committee Chair/Council Reports:

      Dale English – Nothing to report.

     Tom Kirkland – Nothing to report.

     Anthony McDaniel – Nothing to report.

     Leann Harper – Nothing to report.

     Tiffany Ramsay – Nothing to report.

     Matt Schaber – Matt Schaber reported that he talked to M.A.C.O. regarding the vinyl skins for the controller boxes.  He said you can get regular vinyl or vinyl with a magnetic backing.  He said they have the size to cover all the panels on the boxes. The cost for all four controller boxes would be about $1,500.00 and that would include all of the screen printing.  The vinyl with the magnet only goes to 24 inches wide so Kevin Brooks suggested just running it down the middle of the panel on the box.  Matt Schaber said he has an appointment tomorrow in Marietta to get other pricing on the skins.  Mayor Hehr asked Matt Schaber if he would be making a recommendation on what goes on the skins.  Matt Schaber said he asked if the blank vinyl could be painted and he was told that they could be but, the paint would not last on the vinyl, but the screen printing will last approximately 5-7 years.  Mayor Hehr said she would like to suggest that we open this up to residents to see what they would like to see on the boxes.  She said anyone who has a suggestion can contact herself, Matt Schaber, or Kevin Brooks.  Matt Schaber said he will have more pricing at the next meeting.   Anthony McDaniel asked if we could incorporate the public input for the boxes at the next Community Strong Committee meeting.  Mayor Hehr said yes, we can do that if anyone shows up.  Leann Harper stated that if they are really interested then they will show up.  The next Community Strong Committee meeting is July 27th @ 5:00 p.m. in Council Chambers. 

VIII:  Solicitor’s Report:

      Solicitor Ryan Regel is absent.

IX:   Mayor’s Report:

     Mayor Hehr asked for a motion to approve the payment of bills.  Leann Harper made the motion.  Tiffany Ramsay second.  Motion passed 6-0.

     Mayor Hehr asked for a motion to approve the Mayor’s Court report, mid-July 2023.   Dale English made the motion.  Tom Kirkland second.  Motion passed 6-0.

     Kevin Brooks stated that the Property Maintenance Committee has implemented the Façade Improvement Program for businesses.  We have had our first recipient and it was Jerry Lee’s.  There have been 2 other businesses that are interested, forms are available.  Just to re-cap for Council, the Façade Improvement Program is similar to the Sidewalk Improvement Program and Property Demolition but for businesses in the Village.  We will reimburse a business one half of their cost up to one thousand dollars for façade renovations or improvements including signage.

     Mayor Hehr said she is going to add 2 more houses on the Landbank to have torn down.  She has 4 definite and 3 more that she is working on but if we can get 4 down it would be wonderful. 

     Mayor Hehr stated there is a Resolution in Council packets for the Police Levy.  She reminded Council that at the last meeting (July 6th) we passed a Resolution that was declaring the necessity to Levy a tax.  The Resolution presented this evening determines to proceed levying a tax.  Mayor Hehr asked for a motion to pass Resolution #2023-06, A Resolution Determining to Proceed with the Submission to the Electors of the Question of Levying a Tax in Excess of the Ten-Mill Limitation.  Matt Schaber made the motion.  Dale English second.  Motion passed 6-0.   Anthony McDaniel asked if anything needs to be changed per Solicitor Ryan Regels email.  Mayor Hehr replied that nothing needs to be changed in the Resolution but the language that actually goes on the ballot is what Solicitor Ryan Regel will determine. 

     Chief Corey Jones thanked Council for allowing him to be present.  He stated that he appreciates the opportunity Council has given to the Police Department.  Chief Jones said the Woodsfield Police Department is seeking the approval of a 3-mill police tax levy on the November 2023 ballot.  The funds generated from the levy will be used to maintain and increase police protection in the Village and for purchasing a police vehicle and other equipment directly related to the operation of the Police Department. 

     Chief Corey Jones also gave Council a statistical report for the 2nd quarter of 2023 for the Village Police Department.  He also included the major highlights from the quarter, he said if anyone has any questions regarding the report, he would be glad to answer them.  Leann Harper stated that the calls to service for the 2nd quarter increased by 38% which she said is a huge jump from one quarter to the next.  Chief Corey Jones said they stay very busy to say the least. 

Dale English commended Chief Jones and the department, they do a great job. 

XI.  Un-Registered Visitors:

     None

 XII. Adjourn:

     The Mayor asked for a motion to adjourn the meeting.  Dale English made the motion.  Leann Harper second.  Motion passed 6-0.  The meeting was adjourned at 5:55 p.m.

ATTEST:

___________________________                                                 ____________________________

 Carol Hehr, Mayor                                                                                  Lori Cunard, Fiscal Officer                                                                                      

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Meeting Minutes (7-6-23)

                                        The Council of the Village of Woodsfield

                                                             July 6, 2023

The Council of the Village of Woodsfield met in Regular Session on July 6, 2023.   

I.  Roll Call:

      Present:  Council Members; Dale English, Tom Kirkland, Anthony McDaniel, Leann Harper, Tiffany Ramsay, Matt Schaber, Mayor Carol Hehr, Fiscal Officer Lori Cunard, Solicitor Ryan Regel, and Village Administrator Kevin Brooks.

II.   Pending Meeting Minutes Approval:

        Dale English made the motion to accept the June 19, 2023 meeting minutes.  Tom Kirkland second.  Leann Harper – abstain. Motion passed 5-0. 

III.  Registered Visitors/Guest:

     None

 IV.  Old Business:

     DORA – Solicitor Ryan Regel said he has nothing new to report on for DORA.  The only question left is what to do for the logo and that is up to Council.  Solicitor Regel said he does not think it has to be on the application, but he thinks it best to put it on the application.   Mayor Hehr had passed around guidelines to be put on the cups at the last Council meeting, she asked if everyone was ok with this which everyone agreed.  Solicitor Regel said he would incorporate it on the application and circulate it. 

V.    Administrator Report:

     Village Administrator Kevin Brooks said he does not have anything to bring up other than there is a Resolution to be passed tonight for Ohio Public Works that has to do with street paving. 

VI.   Fiscal Officer Report:

     Fiscal Officer Lori Cunard said that June’s bank statement has been reconciled.  She also reported that on Thursday, July 13th she and Brenda Mauck will be going to South Zanesville to meet with Chris Kerby for mid-year revenue and appropriations update/review.  

     Lori Cunard also gave Council members the reports for the Utility Department to keep them updated.

VII.  Committee Chair/Council Reports:

      Dale English – Nothing to report.

     Tom Kirkland – Tom Kirkland said the flowers at each end of the islands are blocking the view when turning right on red.  He said residents have been commenting on this and he has noticed it himself.  He said the flowers need to either be drastically trimmed back or taken completely out because there is going to end up being an accident.   Tiffany Ramsay said she actually did pull out in front of someone because she did not see them due to the flowers.  Anthony McDaniel said once the signalization is finished downtown, and the traffic pattern changes it would take care of it but in the meantime maybe we should trim the flowers back.  Kevin Brooks said the signalization may be done next week.  Mayor Hehr said she hates to trim the flowers back because they are in full bloom.  Tom Kirkland stated that if there is an accident, we will be blamed for it.  Tom Kirkland asked what the status is with the BMV contract?   Kevin Brooks said his understanding is that no one has gotten back with Solicitor Ryan Regel on how we want to amend the agreement, whether to have the BMV pay their own utilities or pay a higher monthly rent.  Solicitor Ryan Regel suggested we reach out to Beverly Landefeld and have her come to a Council meeting to discuss the contract, he said when he spoke with her, she was very receptive.  Mr. Brooks said that no one on Council has provided any input on what they would like to change if anything.   Tom Kirkland said he had spoken with Solicitor Ryan Regel after the last meeting and gave him his input, but we all need to come to a decision on what we want to do.  Mayor Hehr said we will invite Beverly Landefeld to the next meeting and Council members should decide by then on what they want to do, whether to raise the rent or have them pay their own utilities.  

     Anthony McDaniel – Nothing to report.

     Leann Harper – Nothing to report.

     Tiffany Ramsay – Nothing to report.

     Matt Schaber – Matt Schaber sent an email to Council members regarding the 5 controller boxes.  He would like to have them painted or purchase skins for the controller boxes because currently they are silver, and he thinks they would be a target for graffiti. Village Administrator Kevin Brooks said there are skins that can be purchased that can be put on the boxes and then peeled off and replaced, then sell advertising space.  M.A.C.O. can make decals for businesses, the businesses can then sponsor the boxes by having their decal on the box for advertising, similar to what we did with the parking meters.  Kevin Brooks suggests we get 5 sets of skins with the Woodsfield logo on them to start and his understanding is they can be peeled off and re-used.  We then can get decals for businesses that would like to sponsor a box for advertisement.   Mayor Hehr said she read through Matt Schaber’s email quickly, but she thought we were going to have students at Monroe Central do something with the controller boxes.  Matt Schaber said that was just a thought to have students come up with ideas, but he did not think of the skins until Kevin Brooks suggested it.  Dale English asked how long businesses would pay to advertise.  Mr. Brooks said it would be for a month at a time and once we know the cost of the skins and decals, we can determine how much to charge businesses who want to advertise.  Leann Harper said she feels we should make this a community relations project, whether it be the Arts Council or Art students at the school and let them do the boxes for free.  She said there are a lot of talented people in the community, and she is not in favor of making money from businesses sponsoring a controller box.  Kevin Brooks said he does not agree with painting them because the paint will eventually peel and chip off and it will end up being a lot of maintenance.    Anthony McDaniel asked if we could make decorative decals instead of painting them.  Mayor Hehr asked Matt Schaber if he and Leann Harper could gather information and ideas for the controller boxes for the next Council meeting and Matt Schaber agreed.  Kevin Brooks said to keep in mind that if painted and they become problematic it will be up to us to fix them.  Mayor Hehr stated that if we did the painting, we would have to see a drawing first of what would be painted on them.  Kevin Brooks said there are already some rules in place such as nothing political and no campaign advertisements.  Matt Schaber agreed the drawing would have to be approved first. 

VIII:  Solicitor’s Report:

      Reported on DORA during old business, nothing more to report.

IX:   Mayor’s Report:

     Mayor Hehr asked for a motion to approve the payment of bills.  Anthony McDaniel made the motion.  Leann Harper second.  Motion passed 6-0.

     Mayor Hehr asked for a motion to approve the Mayor’s Court report, June 2023.   Dale English made the motion.  Tom Kirkland second.  Motion passed 6-0.

     Mayor Hehr asked for a motion to approve the Income Tax Report, June 2023.  Anthony McDaniel made the motion.  Tiffany Ramsay second.  Motion passed 6-0. 

     Mayo Hehr said the fireworks were very good.  She thinks they get better every year.  She thinks the food truck did very well, he seemed to be busy most of the time.  She also reported that the events committee sold ice cream and trinkets for the kids, it was by donation.  She said they took in over $300.00.   Dale English said he thinks the event committee is doing a good job and the music in the park a couple weeks ago was well attended and very nice.  The food truck seemed to do very well that night also.  Kevin Brooks said we also need to thank the Brown Center for the use of their parking lot for overflow parking.  Mayor Hehr also thanked Kreg Robison, MC Beacon, for the front-page article about the event committee. 

     Mayor Hehr said she received a call from Steve Eikleberry, Park Superintendent, today.  She had ordered another piece of exercise equipment and a picnic table for the Walking Trail, and they were

delivered today.   She is still waiting for the gazebo; it is not quite finished.  These purchases were made with NatureWorks grant funds. 

     Kevin Brooks said that the bench in front of Jerry Lee’s is the prototype of the benches for downtown.  He said he would like to keep the one in front of Jerry Lee’s and order 2 more regular benches and 3 benches that the back will flip up into a half picnic table.   He asked if Council has any preference on color scheme for the benches or any input on ordering 5 more benches for downtown.   Mr. Brooks likes the look of the black and red color scheme; they are $500.00 each and are very well constructed.    Leann Harper asked where they are planning on putting the picnic table benches and Mr. Brooks replied in front of the restaurants, but it also depends on whether the store owners want them in front of their business.  Anthony McDaniel said he had family in town over the weekend and they commented on how nice downtown looks.  Mayor Hehr said she has had many comments also.  Tom Kirkland made the motion for the purchase of 2 regular benches and 3 picnic table benches @ $500.00 each for the downtown area.  Matt Schaber second.  Motion passed 6-0. 

     Mayor Hehr stated that the 2-hour parking signs are up downtown and if you are parked longer, you will be ticketed.  The signs for back-in parking will be put up once the brackets are received.  Kevin Brooks wanted Council to know that we had nothing to do with ordering signs or putting signs within the downtown project.  The signs were all put up by ODOT and Shelley and Sands.  The 2-hour parking signs were put up outside the project quadrant.  The 1-hour parking for the handi-cap area was also within the downtown project and put up by ODOT and Shelley and Sands.  The Village had no input on the street signs.  We questioned the 1-hour parking for the handi-cap and were told that it is what it is, and we have no discretion to change it until after the project is closed at which time, we can change it if we want.    Leann Harper asked if ODOT was asked about a misspelled sign for one of the streets and Kevin Brooks said he was told that research was done and that is the actual name of the street.  Kevin Brooks said when the project is closed, we can look at some of the signs and change them if we want but we have to wait until the project closes.

     Mayor Hehr asked for a motion to pass Ordinance #06-2023, An Ordinance Providing for Amending and Revising Specific Line-Items in the Appropriations of the Expenditures for the Village of Woodsfield for the Calendar Year 2023 and Declaring an Emergency.  Anthony McDaniel made the motion.  Leann Harper second.  Dale English – yes, Tom Kirkland – yes, Tiffany Ramsay – yes, Matt Schaber – yes.  Motion passed 6-0

     Mayor Hehr asked for a motion to suspend the rules and pass Ordinance #06-2023 by its second reading, declaring an emergency.  Dale English made the motion.  Tiffany Ramsay second.  Tom Kirkland – yes, Anthony McDaniel – yes, Leann Harper – yes, Matt Schaber – yes.  Motion passed 6-0

     Mayor Hehr asked for a motion to suspend the rules and pass Ordinance #06-2023 by its third reading, declaring it an emergency and adopt.  Tom Kirkland made the motion.  Anthony McDaniel second.  Dale English – yes, Leann Harper – yes, Tiffany Ramsay – yes, Matt Schaber – yes.  Motion passed 6-0.  Ordinance #06-2023 adopted.

     Mayor Hehr asked for a motion to pass Resolution #2023-04, A Resolution Authorizing the Village of Woodsfield to Prepare and Submit an Application to Participate in the Ohio Public Works Commission State Capital Improvement and/or Local Transportation Improvement Program and to Execute Contracts as Required.  Anthony McDaniel made the motion.  Matt Schaber second.  Motion passed 6-0.  Resolution #2023-04 passed. 

     Mayor Hehr asked for a motion to pass Ordinance #07-2023, An Ordinance Amending Section 945.01 of the Village of Woodsfield, Ohio Codified Ordinances Titles “General Rule and Regulations” and Declaring an Emergency.   Anthony McDaniel made the motion.  Matt Schaber second.  Dale English – yes, Tom Kirkland – yes, Leann Harper – yes, Tiffany Ramsay – yes.  Motion passed 6-0.

     Mayor Hehr asked for a motion to suspend the rules and pass Ordinance #07-2023 by its second reading, declaring it an emergency.  Dale English made the motion.  Matt Schaber second.  Tom Kirkland – yes, Anthony McDaniel – yes, Leann Harper – yes, Tiffany Ramsay – yes.  Motion passed 6-0.

     Mayor Hehr asked for a motion to suspend the rules and pass Ordinance #07-2023 by it third reading, declaring it an emergency, and adopt.  Anthony McDaniel made the motion.  Tom Kirkland second.  Dale English – yes, Leann Harper – yes, Tiffany Ramsay – yes, Matt Schaber – yes.  Motion passed 6-0.  Ordinance #07-2023 adopted.

Mayor Hehr asked for a motion to go into Executive Session/Consultation/Legal Counsel.  Tiffany Ramsay made the motion.  Anthony McDaniel second.  Motion passed 6-0.  Executive Session entered at 6:17 p.m.

     Mayor Hehr asked for a motion to go back into Regular Session.  Dale English made the motion.   Tom Kirkland second.  Motion passed 6-0.  Regular Session entered at 6:40 p.m.

     Mayor Hehr asked for a motion to pass Resolution #2023-05, A Resolution Declaring the Necessity to Levy a Tax in Excess of the Ten-Mill Limitation, ORC 5705.19, ORC 5705.191, ORC 5705.25, ORC 5705.26.  Matt Schaber made the motion.  Anthony McDaniel second.  The Resolution is for a 3 mill levy for police protection and capital expenditures.  Leann Harper said a sixth officer is much needed.  Kevin Brooks stated that with the five officers we have now, if one of them is off Chief Jones fills in for them, he is salary, and he should not always have to fill in.  Leann Harper asked if the 3 mill is what we need and we are not asking for more than needed.  Kevin Brooks replied that we are absolutely not asking for more than needed.  Motion passed 6-0.

XI.  Un-Registered Visitors:

     None

 XII. Adjourn:

     The Mayor asked for a motion to adjourn the meeting.  Leann Harper made the motion.  Tiffany Ramsay second.  Motion passed 6-0.  The meeting was adjourned at 6:45 p.m.

ATTEST:

___________________________                                                 ____________________________

 Carol Hehr, Mayor                                                                                  Lori Cunard, Fiscal Officer                                                                                      

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Meeting Minutes (6-19-23)

The Council of the Village of Woodsfield

                                                             June 19, 2023

                                                

The Council of the Village of Woodsfield met in Regular Session on June 19, 2023.   

I.  Roll Call:

      Present:  Council Members; Dale English, Tom Kirkland, Anthony McDaniel, Tiffany Ramsay, Matt Schaber, Mayor Carol Hehr, Fiscal Officer Lori Cunard, and Village Administrator Kevin Brooks.

     Absent:  Council member Leann Harper and Solicitor Ryan Regel.

II.   Pending Meeting Minutes Approval:

        Anthony McDaniel made the motion to accept the June 5, 2023 meeting minutes.  Tiffany Ramsay second.  Dale English – abstain.  Leann Harper – absent.  Motion passed 4-0. 

III.  Registered Visitors/Guest:

     None

 IV.  Old Business:

     DORA – Mayor Hehr passed around to Council guidelines that she jotted down for the cups to be used for DORA.  She said they won’t be making any decisions tonight but in 2 weeks for the next meeting she is hoping we can make the final decisions for DORA.  Anthony McDaniel asked if it would be printed on all of the cups, Mayor Hehr replied yes. 

V.    Administrator Report:

     Village Administrator Kevin Brooks asked for Executive Session regarding Personnel/Employment with action to be taken at the end of the meeting.  Mayor Hehr said she also has acquisition of property for Executive Session. 

VI.   Fiscal Officer Report:

     Fiscal Officer Lori Cunard stated that the Utility accounts have been caught up to April and May so far.  She passed around the new reconciliation report to be used for the Utility Department for Council to take a look at.  The reconciliation report for the Utility Department will now be done on a daily/weekly basis instead of monthly.  Mayor Hehr asked if Council would get a copy of the report on a regular basis.  Lori Cunard said the reconciliation will show on the receipt report that she gives to Council each meeting, but Mayor Hehr said she likes the way this report shows the breakdown of where the funds get disbursed.  Lori Cunard said she could send the report out weekly to Council if that is what they would like.   Mayor Hehr said that getting the report just on a monthly basis would be good.  Kevin Brooks spoke up and said that some were concerned and questioning the Water Operating account. We had waited for Council approval on the new distributions to post revenue, but had still been paying expenses, so the account was not reflecting revenue.   He said that all revenues have now been posted and if you look at the most current Fund Status Report, he thinks everyone will be pleasantly surprised.  Lori Cunard said the Fiscal Office and Utility Office are still looking at how to figure the Kilowatt tax.  Kevin Brooks said we pay Sawvel & Associates a retainer and they have offered to help so we should contact them.  Lori Cunard said they have been in contact with them. 

VII.  Committee Chair/Council Reports:

      Dale English – Dale English asked Chief Corey Jones if he was going to report on the K-9 Fundraiser.  Chief Jones said he did not have a report ready as of yet.   Dale English also thought the Alumni parade on Friday night was very nice.  Mayor Hehr said the sound system for the Village needs some work.  Kevin Brooks said he talked to Lewis Hill, Electric Superintendent, and he said there is a button on the microphones and if one is turned off neither will work.  Lewis Hill will go over it with someone before the next event to be held.  Mayor Hehr said that one did work but the other did not so it will have to be looked into, but they are learning.  Mayor Hehr said she appreciated Council agreeing to purchase the sound system because it is going to be an asset and it is portable and can be moved throughout the Village. 

  Tom Kirkland – Tom Kirkland feels the downtown project is coming along really well and it seems they will be done soon.  Mayor Hehr said she talked with one of the guys from Miller and it will be 3-4 weeks before the signalization will be ready to go. 

     Anthony McDaniel – Nothing to report.

     Leann Harper – absent

    Tiffany Ramsay – Nothing to report.

    Matt Schaber – Nothing to report.

VIII:  Solicitor’s Report:

      Nothing to report

IX:   Mayor’s Report:

     Mayor Hehr asked for a motion to approve the payment of bills.  Tom Kirkland made the motion.  Dale English second.  Leann Harper – absent.   Motion passed 5-0.

     Mayor Hehr asked for a motion to approve the Mayor’s Court report, mid-June 2023.   Dale English made the motion.  Matt Schaber second.  Leann Harper – absent.  Motion passed 5-0.

     Mayor Hehr asked Kevin Brooks if he has a list of the alleys to be vacated.  Mr. Brooks said he did not have the list with him.  Mayor Hehr said we need to schedule a Public Hearing for the vacating of the alleys after 30 days, there are 6 of them.  She told Kreg Robison, MC Beacon, that we would get him the list of alleys.  Anthony McDaniel asked when she wanted to schedule the Public Hearing.  Mayor Hehr replied August 7th, prior to the Council meeting at 5:00 p.m.   Anthony McDaniel made a motion to schedule a Public Hearing on August 7th @ 5:00 p.m. regarding the vacating of alleys.  Matt Schaber second.  Leann Harper – absent.  Motion passed 5.0. 

     Mayor Hehr reported that Ponzani’s was in the downtown area planting in the bump-outs.  She said it looks as if there are going to be purple and white flowers on some of the plants. 

     Mayor Hehr will be leaving tomorrow afternoon for the Mayor’s Conference in Columbus and tomorrow morning she has a landbank meeting.  She has 3 or 4 properties that she would like to have torn down by the landbank, but she can’t find the phone numbers for the people that own them.   She said anyone that is interested in having their house torn down can get ahold of her or Taylor Abbott.  Mayor Hehr said they found out the other day that the money leftover from the last project will be able to be used for additional houses and we will hopefully get a second round of money as well.  Dale English asked if they have done anything about the school yet and Mayor Hehr replied no, they have not, it is still tied up. 

     The Community Strong Committee met on Thursday evening.  Mayor Hehr reminded everyone that Mark Henthorn will be at City Park for music along with Hudson’s Food truck with pizza and ice cream.  It will be from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m..

         Mayor Hehr asked for a motion to go into Executive Session regarding Personnel/Employment and acquisition of Property.  Matt Schaber made the motion.  Tiffany Ramsay second.  Leann Harper – absent.  Motion passed 5-0.  Executive Session entered at 5:50 p.m.

     Mayor Hehr asked for a motion to go back into Regular Session.  Dale English made the motion.   Tom Kirkland second.  Leann Harper – absent.  Motion passed 5-0.  Regular Session entered at 6:35 p.m.

Matt Schaber made a motion to terminate employment of Hunter Thomas effective immediately.  Anthony McDaniel second.  Leann Harper – absent.  Motion passed 5-0. 

     Tom Kirkland made a motion to remove the Parking meters in the Village.  Matt Schaber second.  Leann Harper – absent.  Motion passed 5-0. 

      Mayor Hehr said we need to schedule the next Council meeting for a different day due to the July 4th festivities being held on July 3rd (Council meeting night).   Dale English made a motion to re-schedule the

next Council meeting for Thursday, July 6thMatt Schaber second.  Leann Harper – absent.  Motion passed 5-0. 

XI.  Un-Registered Visitors:

     None

 XII. Adjourn:

     The Mayor asked for a motion to adjourn the meeting.  Anthony McDaniel made the motion.  Tiffany Ramsay second.  Leann Harper – absent.   Motion passed 5-0.  The meeting was adjourned at 6:40 p.m.

ATTEST:

___________________________                                                 ____________________________

 Carol Hehr, Mayor                                                                                  Lori Cunard, Fiscal Officer                                                                                      

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Meeting Minutes (6-5-23)

                                        The Council of the Village of Woodsfield

                                                             June 5, 2023

The Council of the Village of Woodsfield met in Regular Session on June 5, 2023.   

I.  Roll Call:

      Present:  Council Members; Tom Kirkland, Anthony McDaniel, Leann Harper, Tiffany Ramsay, Matt Schaber, Mayor Carol Hehr, Deputy Fiscal Officer Brenda Mauck, Village Administrator Kevin Brooks, and Solicitor Ryan Regel.

     Absent:  Council member Dale English, Fiscal Officer Lori Cunard.

II.   Pending Meeting Minutes Approval:

       Leann Harper made the motion to accept the May 15, 2023 meeting minutes.  Matt Schaber second.  Dale English – absent.  Motion passed 5-0. 

III.  Registered Visitors/Guest:

     Amanda Seevers – Amanda Seevers attended the meeting to thank Council for all the support they give during the planning of the Alumni Weekend.  She wanted to make sure that ODOT had been notified of the request to close the square to traffic for the parade.  Kevin Brooks said ODOT has been notified and the approval has been received.  She also asked if a Police Officer could come down to City Park during parade line-up due to some traffic issues they have had in the past.  Village Administrator, Kevin Brooks said he would talk to Chief Corey Jones about having one of the officers there.

     Gwynn Stewart, Monroe Arts Council – Gwynn Stewart attended the meeting for a couple things, one being that she has been trying to get an Official Ohio tourism sign for the Village.  She called ODOT but they told her it needed to go through the Village.  She called Kevin Brooks and left a voicemail and also the Street Superintendent, Andy Copley, and she also emailed Andy Copley but they neither called her back nor emailed her.  Mayor Carol Hehr stated that she has been in touch with Eric Davis from ODOT trying to get information for Mrs. Stewart regarding the signage, but she has not heard back from Mr. Davis.  Mrs. Stewart replied that she was already in touch with ODOT, and they said she needed to go through the Village.  Mrs. Stewart said she is disappointed by the lack of courtesy by not getting a response back from her phone calls and emails.  She said that she knows she is hard to get ahold of because she is a busy person, but her email address was on the email she had sent, she left a call back number, and she would have appreciated a response. 

     Gwynn Stewart also attended to ask Council where the bulbs are that were planted in the islands.  She said the bulbs were bought with money from a grant, which she helped write, in 2021.  Mayor Hehr stated that the bulbs were removed to clean-up the islands for the “Welcome Home Parade” for the veterans.  Mayor Hehr said she had tried to get in contact with Mick Schumacher regarding the islands and whether he wanted to maintain them as he has in the past.  She got no response from him, so she talked with Street Superintendent, Andy Copley, who had done landscaping for several years and he recommended pulling them out because they were over-grown and crowded.  Mayor Hehr said when she found out that the bulbs were bought with grant money, she asked the Village employees to dump the dirt from the islands up at the Fire Department.  Mayor Hehr, her husband, and grandson went up and went through the dirt and they only found 2 bulbs.  She said she takes responsibility for the bulbs, and she is willing to replace them out of her own pocket.  Anthony McDaniel reminded Gwynn Stewart that people had been told months in advance of the pending construction downtown and they would have had time to dig up the bulbs themselves.  Gwynn Stewart said she feels residents are getting tired of the politics and they are not going to want to help out the Village anymore.  She said she feels like they are up against a brick wall.  She also stated that the User Agreement states that the Village can go in and remove anything that gets planted at any time, so why would anyone want to sign it and plant flowers if they can be dug up at any time.   Stewart thanked Council for listening and she hopes they understand why she is disappointed with how things have been done.

     Delvin Wiggins – Delvin Wiggins attended the Council meeting in regard to the vacating of the alley behind his home on Church Street.  He said that he and his wife have a very nice yard with several trees in the back and they enjoy watching wildlife that has come into the yard.  He said if the alley gets vacated, he will be landlocked.  He uses the alley to get a truck and trailer into his backyard to clean up fallen tree limbs.  Anthony McDaniel said to Mr. Wiggins that even if the alley is closed, he can reach out

to his neighbors to establish a Right-of-Way to get to his back yard.  Mr. Wiggins stated that if the alley is closed it would just take one of his neighbors to say no and then he couldn’t get to his back yard to clean it up when needed.  He said that he has always gotten along with his neighbors and has done what he can to help them out when needed but there is always a chance that one neighbor could say no to him establishing a Right-of-Way if the alley gets vacated.   Mr. Wiggins said he mainly uses the alley as a summer exit because obviously that is when he is doing the bulk of his yard work that needs to be done.   Mr. Wiggins thanked Council for their time, and he hopes they will reconsider the vacating of the alley.  Mayor Hehr explained that before we can vacate an alley, we are required to hold a public forum.  The date and time will be advertised, and Mr. Wiggins is welcome to attend.

     Sarah Dupray, First Nazarene Church – Sarah Dupray attended Council meeting to get permission to use the City Park on August 16th.  The Church will be having an event to hand out backpacks with school supplies to children.  They will have inflatables and other activities for children.  Kevin Brooks spoke up and said we would waive the usage fee for the City Park, and we would have them sign a User Agreement due to the liability of the inflatables.  Council all agreed for them to use City Park for the event.  Kevin Brooks said we can advertise it on Facebook for them if they like.  Sarah Dupray thanked Council and said she would update as the event date gets closer.

 IV.  Old Business:

     DORA – Solicitor Ryan Regel said he is still waiting for the final decision from Council on whether they want to do the cups or stickers and the design of the cups or stickers.  Mayor Hehr said she has been in contact with the City of Marietta, they hand out cups.  She said they order the cups and have them sent to the permitted establishments; the cost of the cups is .47 each.  She said she would like to hold off another 2 weeks to decide on the design.  Kevin Brooks spoke up and said the cups need to be distinguishable.  He said that if we use a red solo type cup it should be a different size or shape so the Police Department can easily recognize it as being DORA plus it will have the DORA logo or design on it that we decide on.  Solicitor Ryan Regel agreed that they need to be easily recognized but he would like to have the major details in the DORA application before he sends it.

V.    Administrator Report:

     Kevin Brooks stated that he would like it on record that he did return Gwynn Stewart’s phone calls.  He said he knows that he called her at least 4 times and she did not answer, and her voicemail is full so he could not leave a message.  Mr. Brooks said in defense of the Street Department, they cannot get into their voicemail.  He also wanted it noted that residents were told at least 6 months in advance of the start of the downtown construction project, and no one was ever promised that the flowers or bulbs would not be taken out.  In Mr. Brooks opinion the downtown has never looked better after we went in and cleaned it up for the parade.   He said you could not even see the bushes in the middle of the islands because the flowers were so overgrown and crowded.  Mayor Hehr asked if anyone has come to him about the maintaining of the islands, he said he has had some inquiries, but no one has followed through. 

     Kevin Brooks reported that the downtown project is wrapping up, but he expects there will be a pretty big punch list.  He said the cut out in the sidewalk at the corner of Marden Rehab is for a controller box that will put in.  We are waiting for the mast arm signalization.  As far as the back in parking, he said people who pull in will be ticketed.  He stated it is back in parking only and if people try to pull in, they will end up causing accidents.  Mr. Brooks said there is also a 2-hour time limit for parking.  Mr. Brooks said the U-turn at the end of each island is a liability and to do the U-turn drivers will be crossing over double yellow lines so he is assuming the U-turn will not be allowed any longer.  The flower boxes at each corner of the downtown square will be landscaped by Ponzani Landscaping.  Leann Harper asked if we should just do the maintaining of the islands ourselves and she asked about the User Agreement.  The User Agreement has been re-written by Solicitor Ryan Regel because the old agreement was very long and cumbersome, but the User Agreement is to maintain the islands.  Solicitor Ryan Regel said he will send the new User Agreement out to all of Council so they can read it.  Kevin Brooks stated that as of now the center islands will be maintained by the Village and left as they are.  Mayor Hehr said she made several attempts to contact Mick Schumacher in regard to the maintenance

of the islands but has never gotten any response back from him.  Kevin Brooks has concerns for what will even survive due to salt spray from snow plowing during the winter months.  Mr. Brooks also stated

that they had talked about building a wall around the islands for safety, but people did not like the idea.  Mayor Hehr spoke up and said that was due to Mr. Loveday and the islands being considered historical or not.  Mr. Brooks said he does have serious concerns about anyone going into the center islands to maintain them for safety reasons. 

     Kevin Brooks asked for Executive Session regarding Personnel/Compensation and Property at the end of the meeting. 

VI.   Fiscal Officer Report:

     Fiscal Officer Lori Cunard was absent.  Deputy Fiscal Officer Brenda Mauck asked for any questions from Council, there were none.  Kevin Brooks spoke up and said that the budget looks good so far but for the last 6 months of the year he is asking staff to watch spending because he is expecting revenue to slow down for the next 6 months. 

VII.  Committee Chair/Council Reports:

      Dale English – absent

     Tom Kirkland – Tom Kirkland would like for Council to decide on longevity this evening.  The Finance Committee discussed this some time ago, but no decision has been made as far as continuing longevity, raising the amount, or doing away with it all together.

     Anthony McDaniel – Anthony McDaniel reported on the Property Maintenance Committee Meeting that was held on May 30th.  He stated that they talked about the idea of doing a re-imbursement program, such as the Sidewalk Program, but for businesses to do their store fronts.  They also talked about ideas for Property Maintenance Fund usage.  Anthony McDaniel said the committee would like to thank Council for agreeing for the Village to put up the money to do the work on the sidewalks in the downtown because they look amazing and having the new trash receptacles in the downtown is huge.

     Leann Harper – Nothing to report.

    Tiffany Ramsay – Nothing to report.

    Matt Schaber – Nothing to report.

VIII:  Solicitor’s Report:

     Solicitor Ryan Regel received a contract from ODOT for snow and ice removal on the state routes through the Village.  ODOT is changing the contract from a 5-year contract to a 2-year contract.  There is no cost to the Village for this, but Solicitor Ryan Regel is assuming they are changing to a 2-year contract because of price changes.   Mayor Hehr asked for a motion to approve the signing of the contract with ODOT for snow and ice removal on state routes through the Village.  Tom Kirkland made the motion.  Tiffany Ramsay second.  Dale English – absent.  Motion passed 5-0. 

IX:   Mayor’s Report:

     Mayor Hehr asked for a motion to approve the payment of bills.  Leann Harper made the motion.  Tiffany Ramsay second.  Dale English – absent.   Motion passed 5-0.

     Mayor Hehr asked for a motion to approve the Mayor’s Court report, May 2023.   Anthony McDaniel made the motion.  Tom Kirkland second.  Dale English – absent.  Motion passed 5-0.

     Mayor Hehr asked for a motion to approve the Income Tax Report, May 2023.  Anthony McDaniel made the motion.  Leann Harper second.  Dale English – absent.  Motion passed 5-0.  Kevin Brooks stated that by looking at the Income Tax Report it is easy to see that we made the right decision to go with RITA for income tax collections.  As of May, collections are over $54,000.00 ahead of last year at this time. 

    Mayor Hehr reported that she is working on a Natureworks Grant to have the pool painted for next summer.  The grant will pay $8,124.00 with the Village share of the cost being $3,149.00.  Mayor Hehr

asked for a motion to pass Resolution #2023-03, A Resolution to Authorize the filing of an ODNR NatureWorks Grant Application for the Pool.   Anthony McDaniel made the motion.  Matt Schaber second.  Dale English – absent.  Motion passed 5-0.

     Mayor Hehr reminded Council of the property that Sam and Pat Lewis would like to purchase from the Village, it is .462 acres on Berkley Drive.  This had been talked about at previous Council Meetings.  The Lewis’s have been taking care of this property for several years, they have paid for the property to be surveyed and the survey is complete.   Mayor Hehr asked for a motion to sell .462 acres on Berkley Drive to Sam and Pat Lewis for $1.00.  Tom Kirkland made the motion.  Tiffany Ramsay second.  Dale English – absent.  Motion passed 5-0.

     Mayor Hehr said the library had the kick-off of the Summer Reading Program this morning.  The theme is “There’s a Hero in all of Us”.  She appreciated everyone who participated.

     Mayor Hehr said that Rick Shipp, Monroe County Sheriff Department, had contacted her and asked for use of the pool for their dive team.  He would like to use the pool early in the mornings and later in the evenings.  Mayor Hehr told him he would have to contact Steve Eikleberry to make sure there are no time conflicts for use of the pool.

     Mayor Hehr asked Tiffany Ramsay to report on the Community Strong Committee meeting.  She reported that they did sell Ice cream bars, popsicles, etc. on June 3rd for the Veterans Parade.  On July 3rd, fireworks night, they are going to have a festival starting at 5:00 p.m.  They will be doing games such as cornhole and volleyball and there will be a food truck that will be set up.  On the third Friday of each month this summer, they are doing music at the City Park, Mark Henthorn will be performing on June 23rd.   There is also music scheduled for July 21st and August 18th.  On September 9th the Committee is planning a Community Day from 11:00 They – 4:00 p.m. in the square.  They are planning on bringing back the Halloween Parade that will be on the last Thursday of October.  The next meeting is scheduled for June 15th @ 5:00 p.m.

     Mayor Hehr asked for a motion to go into Executive Session regarding Personnel/compensation and Property.  Anthony McDaniel made the motion.  Leann Harper second.  Dale English – absent.  Motion passed 5-0.  Executive Session entered at 7:15 p.m.

     Mayor Hehr asked for a motion to go back into Regular Session.  Anthony McDaniel made the motion.   Leann Harper second.  Regular Session entered at 7:40 p.m.

     Mayor Hehr asked for a motion to promote Tina Tubaugh to Utility Office Manager at a starting salary of $35,000.00/yr. and pay her interim pay of $3.73/hr. (difference of current hrly. rate and previous Utility Office Manager hrly. rate) at 240 hrs. Leann Harper made the motion.  Matt Schaber second.  Dale English – absent.  Motion passed 5-0.

     Mayor Hehr asked for a motion to hire Kassie Steele as Utility Office Clerk at $14.00/hr. to begin June 8th, 2023.  She will be eligible for up to 3% increase after 6-month probation.  Tiffany Ramsay made the motion.  Leann Harper second.  Dale English – absent.  Motion passed 5-0.

     Mayor Hehr asked for a motion to approve a 3% increase in wages for Tyler Spence, Water Department.  Anthony McDaniel made the motion.  Leann Harper second.  Dale English – absent.  Motion passed 5-0.

     Mayor Hehr asked for the motion to adjourn when Tom Kirkland reminded Council that he would still like to decide on employee longevity pay.  The current longevity pay increase is .25/hr. on 5-year anniversary dates.  Discussion followed on whether Council wanted to raise it to .50/hr. or not.  Leann Harper said she disagreed with raising it to .50 because there are some years that there are several employees that will be eligible, one year in particular there will be 11 employees and she feels it would be too costly for the Village.  Kevin Brooks spoke up and said that .25/hr. is only $520.00 a year.  Mayor Hehr said that .25/hr. or $520.00 just didn’t seem like much and Anthony McDaniel said that he was ok to raise it to .50/hr.  Mayor Hehr asked for a motion to raise the employee longevity pay to .50/hr. at

5-year anniversary dates.  Tom Kirkland made the motion.  Matt Schaber second.  Leann Harper – no.  Dale English – absent. Motion passed 4 – 1. 

XI.  Un-Registered Visitors:

     None

 XII. Adjourn:

     The Mayor asked for a motion to adjourn the meeting.  Leann Harper made the motion.  Tiffany Ramsay second.  Dale English – absent.   Motion passed 5-0.  The meeting was adjourned at 8:00 p.m.

ATTEST:

___________________________                                                 ____________________________

 Carol Hehr, Mayor                                                                                  Lori Cunard, Fiscal Officer                                                                                      

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Meeting Minutes (5-15-23)

                                        The Council of the Village of Woodsfield

                                                             May 15, 2023

The Council of the Village of Woodsfield met in Regular Session on May 15, 2023.   

I.  Roll Call:

      Present:  Council Members; Dale English, Tom Kirkland, Leann Harper, Tiffany Ramsay, Matt Schaber, Mayor Carol Hehr, Fiscal Officer Lori Cunard, Village Administrator Kevin Brooks, and Solicitor Ryan Regel.

     Absent:  Council member Anthony McDaniel

II.   Pending Meeting Minutes Approval:

       Tiffany Ramsay made the motion to accept the May 1, 2023 meeting minutes with corrections.  Dale English second.  Anthony McDaniel – absent.  Motion passed 5-0. 

       In attendance at the meeting were Vietnam War Veterans.  Mayor Hehr stated that she is glad they are in attendance.  She has a Proclamation that is recognizing all Vietnam War Veterans and it is being presented to them tonight on behalf of the Village.  Mayor Hehr read the Proclamation, presented it to the Veterans and thanked them for their service. 

      Brent Bosley, in attendance, invited everyone to Oaklawn Cemetery on Saturday morning at 11:30 a.m.  The VFW replaces the flags at all the cemetery’s throughout the County.  There are over 600 flags at Oaklawn Cemetery.  They are replaced for Memorial Day and Veterans Day every year.  They usually have between 50 & 70 kids show up to help and it gives a chance to show the sacrifice that has been made for their freedom.  

     Mr. Bosley also gave an update on the “Welcome Home Parade” to be held on June 3rd.  He said that since the parade postponement in November they have been working with 112th fighter squadron from Toledo, Ohio to have a fly-over of F-16 jets for the Vietnam Veterans during the parade.  They applied with the FAA three and a half months ago for permission to do the fly-over.  They have not been given an ok yet, but they have not been given a no either.  They are expecting a large turn-out and plans are going well. 

    Mayor Hehr said she is thrilled and very proud that they are doing this in the Village of Woodsfield.                           Mayor Hehr also said she would like to get together with Mr. Bosley and discuss flags for the veterans to be placed in the Village. 

III.  Registered Visitors/Guest:

     Chief Corey Jones – Chief Jones requested Executive Session regarding the purchase of Property at the end of the meeting.

 IV.  Old Business:

     DORA – Solicitor Ryan Regel emailed Council a revised version of the application.  He spoke with Village Administrator Kevin Brooks and Mayor Carol Hehr today and he would prefer we have the logo’s selected so we can be very specific in the application.  Kevin Brooks said that basically we need to decide on if we want cups or stickers and what will be on the cups or stickers signifying it is Woodsfield DORA.  Mr. Brooks said originally, he thought stickers would be better because they would be cheaper but is now thinking that cups would be better to promote the downtown.  Mayor Hehr suggested we come up with ideas for the stickers or cups and have them for Solicitor Regel for the next meeting.  Leann Harper asked if the Redhead is participating, and Mr. Brooks said no they are not, but we are extending the DORA District to Marietta Street.  Solicitor Regel said the Redhead will be included in the DORA District but if they don’t want to apply for the permit they don’t have to.  Mr. Brooks said the four permitted establishments within the DORA District are Buenos Amigos, Marathon, Wooden Shoe, and Traditions.  

V.    Administrator Report:

     Kevin Brooks reported that clean-up week will begin on June 5th.  Chief Corey Jones has posted the dates on the Village Facebook page and the non-acceptable items were also listed. 

    Kevin Brooks said the sidewalks are starting to go in the downtown area, they are making progress and it is coming together.  The biggest issue will be the signalization because they will have to figure out the timing, he is not sure when the new signalization will happen.

VI.   Fiscal Officer Report:

     Fiscal Officer Lori Cunard gave the bank reconciliation for Council to sign and asked if there were any questions, there were none.  Lori Cunard has two Ordinances and a Resolution for Council to pass. 

     Mayor Hehr asked for a motion to pass Ordinance #04-2023, An Ordinance Authorizing a One Time Payment for a State OCJS Grant Received to 5 Full Time Police Officers and Declaring an Emergency.  Mayor Hehr explained that this was a grant that Chief Corey Jones wrote and was fortunate enough to get funded.   Kevin Brooks asked Fiscal Officer Lori Cunard how the grant money would be paid to the 5 officers, one lump sum or in payments?  Lori Cunard replied it would be paid to each officer as one lump sum.  Tiffany Ramsay made the motion.  Matt Schaber second.  Dale English – yes, Tom Kirkland – yes, Leann Harper – yes, Anthony McDaniel – absent.  Motion passed 5-0.

     Mayor Hehr asked for a motion to suspend the rules and pass Ordinance #04-2023 by its second reading, declaring it an emergency.  Tom Kirkland made the motion.  Leann Harper second.  Dale English – yes, Tiffany Ramsay – yes, Matt Schaber – yes, Anthony McDaniel – absent.  Motion passed 5-0.

     Mayor Hehr asked for a motion to suspend the rules and pass Ordinance #04-2023 by its third reading and adopt.   Dale English made the motion.  Leann Harper second.  Tom Kirkland – yes, Tiffany Ramsay – yes, Matt Schaber – yes.  Anthony McDaniel – absent.  Motion passed 5-0.  Ordinance #04-2023 adopted. 

     Mayor Hehr asked for a motion to pass Ordinance #05-2023, An Ordinance Providing for Amending and Revising Specific Line-items in the Appropriations of Expenditures for the Village of Woodsfield for the Calendar Year 2023 and Declaring an Emergency.   Matt Schaber made the motion.  Tom Kirkland second.  Dale English – yes, Leann Harper – yes, Tiffany Ramsay – yes, Anthony McDaniel – absent.  Motion passed 5-0. 

     Mayor Hehr asked for a motion to suspend the rules and pass Ordinance #05-2023 by its second reading, declaring it an emergency.  Dale English made the motion.  Leann Harper second. Tom Kirkland – yes, Tiffany Ramsay – yes, Matt Schaber – yes, Anthony McDaniel – absent.  Motion passed 5-0.

     Mayor Hehr asked for a motion to suspend the rules and pass Ordinance #05-2023 by its third reading and adopt.   Tiffany Ramsay made the motion. Tom Kirkland second.  Dale English – yes, Leann Harper – yes, Matt Schaber – yes.  Anthony McDaniel – absent.  Motion passed 5-0.  Ordinance #05-

2023 adopted. 

     Mayor Hehr asked for a motion to pass Resolution #2023-02, A Resolution to Receive Daily Receipts from the Utility Department and Declaring an Emergency.   Kevin Brooks stated that a Resolution is not passed by emergency, only an Ordinance.  Mayor Hehr explained that this Resolution is so that we can start receiving Utility Office collections daily rather than on a monthly basis.  Kevin Brooks said this is part of the restructuring process in the Utility Office, it will be better to distribute the revenues daily rather than monthly.   Leann Harper made a motion.  Tiffany Ramsay second.  Anthony McDaniel – absent.  Motion passed 5-0.

VII.  Committee Chair/Council Reports:

      Dale English – Council member Dale English said that the Park Committee met and went over the price list for the pool.  Council members should all have a copy on their desks.  Kevin Brooks said that season passes will require names on the pass and Mayor Hehr added that birthdates of the children will also need to be on the pass. 

     Mayor Hehr asked for a motion to approve the rates for the pool daily admissions, passes and swims.  Tiffany Ramsay stated that the Moonlight Swim is not on the sheet, it is on Thursdays from 7:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. @ $4.00 per person.   Tom Kirkland made the motion.  Tiffany Ramsay second.  Motion passed 5-0.   

     Tom Kirkland – Nothing to report.

      Anthony McDaniel – Absent

      Leann Harper – Nothing to report.

     Tiffany Ramsay – Nothing to report.

     Matt Schaber – Nothing to report.

VIII:  Solicitor’s Report:

     Nothing more to report.

     Matt Schaber asked Solicitor Regel if he had any response from the BMV as of yet?  Solicitor Regel said he has not, the letter was sent as advised by Council.

IX:   Mayor’s Report:

     Mayor Hehr asked for a motion to approve the payment of bills.  Dale English made the motion.  Leann Harper second.  Anthony McDaniel – absent.   Motion passed 5-0.

     Mayor Hehr asked for a motion to approve the Mayor’s Court report, May 2023.   Tiffany Ramsay made the motion.  Leann Harper second.  Anthony McDaniel – absent.  Motion passed 5-0.

    Mayor Hehr reported they had an Event Planning Committee meeting on Thursday evening.  They had one new person join the Committee.  They are calling themselves the “Community Strong Committee, Bringing Communities Together”.   Some of the events they have talked about are, June 3rd for the Veterans Parade they will be selling ice cream bars and popsicles to try to make enough money to get up and started.  On July 3rd, fireworks night, they are going to have a festival starting at 5:00 p.m.  They will be doing games such as cornhole and volleyball in the grassy area next door to the Health Department parking lot.  They have one food truck that will be in the alley close to the Health Department parking lot.  They will be selling ice cream bars and popsicles at this event also.  The Committee is going to try and hook up the sound system at the football field so more people can hear music playing during the fireworks.  Kevin Brooks asked if it would be the new sound system, but Mayor Hehr replied no because she feels the sound would get out further using the school’s equipment.  On the third Friday of June, June 23rd, they are doing music at the City Park, Mark Henthorn will be performing, there will also be one Friday in July and August.   Kevin Brooks let Mayor Hehr know that Officer Jacob McNerney has a friend that has a band that is interested in performing.  On September 9th the Committee is planning a Community Day from 11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. in the square.  They are planning on having food trucks, artists, crafters, games for kids and more.  The week of Veteran’s Day they would like to get military uniforms and different types of military paraphernalia to put in store front windows.  Mayor Hehr said she would be updating Council on these events at each Council meeting. 

     Mayor Hehr reported that she had a meeting with CT Consultants on Thursday regarding the Downtown Revitalization and the Appalachian Community Grant.  They talked about sidewalks, decorative street lighting, benches, stamped walkway from the Courthouse to the Theater and from Subway to Marden Rehab.   CT Consultants will have a set of plans so even if we don’t get part of the Appalachian Grant Funds, we could use the plans at a later time for other grants if something comes up and we won’t have to pay for another set of plans. 

     Mayor Hehr said that the Village did not receive the grant that she wrote for the portable speakers.  So, for now we will just purchase one speaker and see how that goes, then maybe purchase another later. 

     Mayor Hehr said the 5 trash receptacles should be here on the first of June.

     Mayor Hehr has registered for a Buckeye Hills Seminar, if anyone else would like to go it is May 24th.  The title of the seminar is “Financial Tools and Incentives for Downtown Revitalization”. 

     Mayor Hehr will be attending the Chamber of Commerce dinner tomorrow evening.  If anyone else would like to go with her, please let her know. 

      Mayor Hehr reported that the Farmer’s Market has been changed from Thursdays to Wednesdays for this summer.  The vendors from Belpre that sell the fresh vegetables cannot come out on Thursdays,

but they are able to come on Wednesdays and she thinks this will bring more people out to the Market.  The first date will be Wednesday, May 24th, 4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m., signs will need to be made a put out.    

     Mayor Hehr asked for a motion to go into Executive Session regarding the Purchase of Property for the Police Department and a decision will be made.  Leann Harper made the motion.  Tiffany Ramsay second.  Anthony McDaniel – absent.  Motion passed 5-0.  Executive Session entered at 6:05 p.m.

     Mayor Hehr asked for a motion to go back into Regular Session.  Dale English made the motion.   Tom Kirkland second.  Regular Session entered at 6:30 p.m.

     Mayor Hehr asked for a motion to pay the Axon contract in full.  Leann Harper made the motion.  Matt Schaber second.  Anthony McDaniel – absent.  Motion passed 5-0.

XI.  Un-Registered Visitors:

     None

 XII. Adjourn:

     The Mayor asked for a motion to adjourn the meeting.  Leann Harper made the motion.  Dale English second.  Anthony McDaniel – absent.   Motion passed 5-0.  Meeting adjourned at 6:35 p.m.

ATTEST:

______________________________                                                 ____________________________

Carol Hehr, Mayor                                                                                  Lori Cunard, Fiscal Officer                                                                                      

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Meeting Minutes (4-24-23)

The Council of the Village of Woodsfield

                                                             April 24, 2023

The Council of the Village of Woodsfield met in Special Session on April 24, 2023.   

I.  Roll Call:

      Present:  Council Members; Dale English, Tom Kirkland, Anthony McDaniel, Leann Harper, Tiffany Ramsay, Matt Schaber, Mayor Carol Hehr, Fiscal Officer Lori Cunard, Village Administrator Kevin Brooks, and Solicitor Ryan Regel.

II.   Executive Session:

     Mayor Carol Hehr asked for a motion to go into Executive Session regarding Personnel/Employment.  Dale English made the motion.  Tom Kirkland second.  Motion passed 6-0.  Executive Session entered at 6:05 p.m.

     Mayor Carol Hehr asked for a motion to go into Regular Session.  Leann Harper made the motion.  Anthony McDaniel second.  Motion passed 6-0.  Regular Session entered at 7:14 p.m. 

III.  Adjourn:

     Mayor Carol Hehr asked for a motion to adjourn the meeting.  Leann Harper made the motion.  Anthony McDaniel second.  Motion passed 6-0.  Meeting adjourned at 7:15 p.m.

ATTEST:

______________________________                                                 ____________________________

Carol Hehr, Mayor                                                                                  Lori Cunard, Fiscal Officer                                                                                      

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Meeting Minutes (5-1-23)

The Council of the Village of Woodsfield

                                                             May 1, 2023

The Council of the Village of Woodsfield met in Regular Session on May 1, 2023.   

I.  Roll Call:

      Present:  Council Members; Dale English, Tom Kirkland, Anthony McDaniel, Leann Harper, Tiffany Ramsay, Matt Schaber, Mayor Carol Hehr, Fiscal Officer Lori Cunard, Village Administrator Kevin Brooks, and Solicitor Ryan Regel.

II.   Pending Meeting Minutes Approval:

       Tiffany Ramsay made the motion to accept the April 17, 2023 meeting minutes with corrections.  Matt Schaber second.  Tom Kirkland – abstain.  Motion passed 5-0. 

III.  Registered Visitors/Guest:

     Chief Corey Jones – Chief Jones wanted to take a minute to recognize Pastor Dave Cottrell, Police Chaplain.  Pastor Cottrell has just attended the International Conference of Police Chaplains in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio.  He attended the conference March 19th – 22nd, he attends the Conference annually.  While there he successfully completed and was certified in critical injury first aid and basic life support.  Chief Jones congratulated Pastor Cottrell for his certifications and expressed his appreciation for all he does for the Police Department.  Council also appreciates and thanked Pastor Dave Cottrell.  Mayor Hehr asked Chief Jones to get the information from Pastor Cottrell so the Fiscal Office can reimburse him for the conference.

     Chief Corey Jones also attended the meeting to have Executive Session regarding contracts at the end of the meeting.

 IV.  Old Business:

     DORA – Solicitor Ryan Regel had an updated packet that he had sent out to Council members, however, none of the Council members received it due to email issues.  Solicitor Ryan Regel will re-send the packet.  He said the packet was an update based on the conversation we had at the last meeting regarding DORA.  Village Administrator Kevin Brooks said he had just read in the Akron paper that the stickers were no longer accepted, cups are now mandated.  Solicitor Regel said he would check into it to make sure.  He has not read that, but it doesn’t mean it’s not true.  Mayor Carol Hehr said if that is true, she wonders if we could get MACO to make the cups. 

     Matt Schaber asked if a letter had ever been sent to Landefeld yet?  Solicitor Regel said it is ready to go but he was just waiting for official action from Council.  Kevin Brooks said he believes, if not mistaken, that 2 weeks ago it was agreed by Council to review the letter and let Solicitor Regel know if they are good with it.  So, Kevin Brooks asked Council to review the letter and Solicitor Regel would like a response from everyone to let him know if they are good with it. 

V.    Administrator Report:

     Kevin Brooks met with Shelley and Sands and ODOT last week.  They talked about the sidewalk on Eastern Ave. besides Subway as well as the St. Rt. 78 side at Marden Rehab.  The cost to do those sections is very high.  From Subway down it would be $9,800.00 and Marden down it would be about $6,200.00.  After looking at them, Kevin Brooks doesn’t feel either one is in need of much repair, so he is thinking we don’t need to redo those sidewalks.  He also has a price for running the conduit for electric to both the islands which is $3,009.34.  He and Mayor Hehr met with Ponzani’s regarding landscaping the 4 boxes in the bulb outs.  He would rather see us spend the money on the landscaping rather than replacing the sidewalks since they aren’t bad.  Mr. Brooks said it is Council’s discretion on whether to do the sidewalks or not, but he feels we are getting a much better value by doing the landscaping.  Leann Harper asked what the estimate is for the landscaping and Mayor Hehr replied it is $6,435.00.  Mayor Hehr was at a meeting last Monday and spoke with Amy from Equitrans.  She is going to submit all the information to her but is not sure if they will pay anything for it or not.  Kevin Brooks said the money would come from Capital Projects Fund. Kevin Brooks said they told Ponzani’s they would like to have everything done for alumni weekend, but Mayor Hehr said they couldn’t promise it would be done.  Kevin Brooks said it is a deal breaker if it cannot be done for alumni weekend.  Mr. Brooks said the

greenery in the boxes of the bulb-outs at Marden and the Theater would be the same and the boxes at the Courthouse and Subway would be the same.  Mayor Hehr also stated that Ponzani’s would leave enough space in the boxes to plant some flowers for color if we want.  Kevin Brooks thinks that having it done professionally is a good idea, this way we don’t have to worry about User Agreements, at least at the immediate end of the project, and it will look a lot better to end the project.  Anthony McDaniel made a motion to have landscaping done in the downtown area by Ponzani’s in the amount of $6,435.00 and approve the conduit to the islands for electric in the amount of $3,009.34.  Matt Schaber second.  Motion passed 6-0.  Kevin Brooks reminded Council that Mayor Hehr will work with Equitrans to get some of the money back.

     Kevin Brooks asked Council to approve the resignation of Claudia Baker as Utility Office Supervisor as of April 25, 2023.  Leann Harper made a motion to accept the resignation of Claudia Baker as Utility Office Supervisor, effective April 25, 2023.  Anthony McDaniel asked to see the resignation letter and he then second the motion.  Motion passed 6-0.

     Kevin Brooks asked for Executive Session regarding Personnel/Compensation at the end of the meeting. 

VI.   Fiscal Officer Report:

     Fiscal Officer Lori Cunard said that Mayor’s Court training went well.  They toured the Supreme Courthouse.  Leann Harper asked how many trainings per year she does and if she gets Certifications.  Lori Cunard stated that she does get certifications each time and she has attended 5 different training courses so far. 

VII.  Committee Chair/Council Reports:

      Dale English – Nothing to report.

     Tom Kirkland – Tom Kirkland reported there is a Finance Committee Meeting tomorrow morning at 8:30 a.m. 

      Anthony McDaniel – Anthony McDaniel reported that he would get an email out to Property Maintenance Committee regarding days and times for a meeting requested by Mayor Hehr.  Kevin Brooks spoke up to let Anthony McDaniel know that P.D. has been ramping up the non-compliance issues on Property Maintenance.  Tiffany Ramsay asked who owns the property beside Rite-Aid and also Advance Auto because the grass is very high.  Chief Corey Jones said he would find out, the weather has had some to do with it, but he would check into it and get it taken care of.  Dale English said he had 2 people ask him who is responsible for mowing at the old high school and there are bricks falling from the building.  Chief Corey Jones said they put up caution tape around the building due to the falling bricks. 

      Leann Harper – Nothing to report.

     Tiffany Ramsay – Nothing to report.

     Matt Schaber – Nothing to report.

VIII:  Solicitor’s Report:

     Nothing more to report.

IX:   Mayor’s Report:

     Mayor Hehr asked for a motion to approve the payment of bills.  Anthony McDaniel made the motion.  Tiffany Ramsay second.  Motion passed 6-0.

     Mayor Hehr stated that she had her first Mayor’s Court session on Monday afternoon.  It went well and she appreciated Officer Zane Love being in attendance with her.  She asked for a motion to approve

the Mayor’s Court report, April 2023.   Dale English made the motion.  Tom Kirkland second.  Motion passed 6-0.

     Mayor Hehr asked for a motion to approve the Income Tax Report, April 2023.  Anthony McDaniel made the motion.  Leann Harper second.  Motion passed 6-0.

      Mayor Hehr asked for a motion to approve Resolution #2023-01, A Resolution by the Council of the Village of Woodsfield, Ohio in the Matter of the Approval of the Solid Waste Management Plan for the Southeastern Ohio Joint Solid Waste Management District.  Leann Harper asked if this was to bring the recycling bins to the Village.  Mayor Hehr replied no, it is to approve their plan with the Solid Waste Management District.  Kevin Brooks said we are a part of Southeastern Ohio District, and they have to have a plan, it is a formality.  Mayor Hehr said their Plan is quite in depth but anyone in their District has to approve the Plan.  Mayor Hehr read to Council that it is a format change per the EPA structural and technical changes such as projections, calculations, and detailed analysis of the district program and services.  Mayor Hehr also explained that the Commissioners are also a part of the Waste District, she said at one time one Commissioner from every County makes up the Committee and they have to have the Plan approved to send to the EPA, she assumes it is still the same.  Mayor Hehr asked for a motion to pass Resolution #2023-01.  Anthony McDaniel made the motion.  Tom Kirkland second.  Motion passed 6-0. 

     Kevin Brooks said he forgot to mention he has scheduled the dumpsters for June 5-9 for clean-up week. 

     Mayor Hehr reported they had an Event Planning Committee meeting with 6 in attendance.  Their discussions included having a first Friday event in June, July, and August and doing something during the fireworks but they are on Monday, July 3rd, a workday, so it would be hard to get things set up.  They are hoping to do something at the Park 3 or 4 hours before the start of the fireworks but they will have to discuss this further.  They will be having another meeting on Thursday evening at 5:30 p.m., anyone who would like to come is welcome.  They also discussed having community days and doing an event with vendors such as artists on a Saturday in August and having music on the second Thursday of the month on the open lot next door.  OR&W Days were discussed but Matt Schaber said that when Woodsfield gave it up someone else took over OR&W Days trademark so we cannot do an event as OR&W Days.  Mayor Hehr said she would have to check into this, but if we can do OR&W Days it would not be until next year.        

      The Farmer’s Market has always been on Thursdays, Mayor Hehr would like to change it to Wednesdays because of a produce vendor who can come on Wednesday’s because she will already be in town for the Senior Citizens Farmers Market.  She cannot come back into town on Thursdays for our Farmer’s Market.  Mayor Hehr will be contacting the other vendors from our Farmers Market to see if they can change from Thursday to Wednesday.  The Event Planning Committee also discussed ways to raise money, Mayor Hehr asked Village Administrator Kevin Brooks if this committee is under the umbrella of the Village.  Mr. Brooks replied that if they are meeting on Village property then yes, they would. 

     Leann Harper just wanted to let Council and Kevin Brooks know that she agrees with not doing the sidewalks talked about earlier in the meeting during the Administrators report.  Dale English and Tom Kirkland also agreed.

     Mayor Hehr asked for a motion to go into Executive Session regarding Personnel/Compensation and Contracts.  Dale English made the motion.  Leann Harper second.  Motion passed 6-0.  Executive Session entered at 6:15p.m.

     Mayor Hehr asked for a motion to go back into Regular Session.  Leann Harper made the motion.  Matt Schaber second.  Regular Session entered at 7:10 p.m.

     Mayor Hehr asked for a motion to approve signing into a contract with Axon for the Police Department.  Tom Kirkland made the motion.  Dale English second.  Motion passed 6-0.

XI.  Un-Registered Visitors:

     None

 XII. Adjourn:

     The Mayor asked for a motion to adjourn the meeting.  Leann Harper made the motion.  Matt Schaber second.  Motion passed 6-0. 

ATTEST:

______________________________                                                 ____________________________

Carol Hehr, Mayor                                                                                  Lori Cunard, Fiscal Officer                                                                                      

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Meeting Minutes (4-17-23)

The Council of the Village of Woodsfield

                                                             April 17, 2023

The Council of the Village of Woodsfield met in Regular Session on April 17, 2023.   

I.  Roll Call:

      Present:  Council Members; Dale English, Anthony McDaniel, Leann Harper, Tiffany Ramsay, Matt Schaber, Mayor Carol Hehr, Fiscal Officer Lori Cunard, Village Administrator Kevin Brooks, and Solicitor Ryan Regel (was not in attendance at the time of roll call).

      Absent: Council member Tom Kirkland.

II.   Pending Meeting Minutes Approval:

       Leann Harper made a motion to accept the March 20, 2023 and April 3, 2023 meeting minutes as written.  Tiffany Ramsay second.  Tom Kirkland – absent.  Motion passed 5-0. 

III.  Registered Visitors/Guest:

     Patty Turner, Monroe County Library – Mrs. Turner attended Council meeting on behalf of the Monroe County Library to let Council know that they are in the planning process of the Summer Reading Program.  They are doing their own theme this year which is “Celebrate everyday Hero’s”.  Mrs. Turner’s main reason for attending was to ask permission to use the parking lot beside the tennis court.  They will be kicking off the reading program on June 5th at 11:00 a.m. and they are inviting the Village Police Department, Sheriff’s Department, Fire Department and Squad, and the Health Department in hopes that they would set up a space in the parking lot.  They would like to walk the children down to the parking lot to then visit with the groups of people.  Mayor Carol Hehr stated that the parking lot is actually owned by the County, Dale English agreed so Mrs. Turner would need to talk to the County Commissioners.

 IV.  Old Business:

     DORA – Mayor Hehr said that she had some questions regarding DORA that she had sent to Solicitor Ryan Regel.  Mayor Hehr said that there are some things on the application such as it stating the application is filed with the Office of the Clerk and she feels it should be changed to Fiscal Office since we don’t have a clerk anymore.  Also, she is questioning the boundary map and some of the streets.  Village Administrator Kevin Brooks said we do not intend for it to go down into the residential areas.  We went further west on St. Rt. 78 because we are not sure we can get the 4 liquor license permits that are required for DORA within the original boundary.  As of now there are 4 but one of them is questionable, so we could lose one and then we would have to pick up another which would be BP.  He said when looking at the map the DORA boundary is a “T”.  The top of the “T” is St. Rt. 78, and the base is Main Street, so we have no intentions of DORA spilling over to residential areas.  Mayor Hehr also said the hours stated only says Thursday and Friday and that is not what we had talked about.  Kevin Brooks said that the original hours talked about were going to be Thursday – Sunday, 7:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.  Mayor Hehr had questioned whether we should include Sunday or not at a previous meeting, but we just needed a starting point so Council will still have to decide the days and times.  Anthony McDaniel asked how hard it would be to change days or times once the application is submitted and approved, he asked if Sundays could be special permission only.  Kevin Brooks said that is really a question for Solicitor Ryan Regel.  Leann Harper asked if this was just going to be for special events or every weekend once it is implemented?  Kevin Brooks said the application is applying for that time slot every weekend but if we are wanting to dial it back to special events, that would something to talk to Solicitor Ryan Regel about, but Mr. Books thinks we will have a lot of discretion regarding days and times.  Matt Schaber asked if the Police Department has concerns about enforcement during the DORA time periods and Kevin Brooks said he has had conversations with Chief Corey Jones and he is not concerned about it.  Mr. Brooks feels most people will be respectful and not cause issues, but he said in the beginning it will be more heavily patrolled by the Police Department to let people know that any trouble will not be tolerated.  Anthony McDaniel asked if we needed a vote for the application this evening.  Kevin Brooks said that everyone needs to go over the application and agree to the application first and then it will require a vote.  Solicitor Ryan Regel entered the Council meeting at this time.  Matt Schaber asked why the boundary doesn’t cross St. Rt. 78?  Mr. Brooks stated that we did not want people crossing a major highway and if

they do cross St. Rt. 78, that puts them on County property at the Courthouse and on the other side of the street is the theater and the events held there at the time DORA was first discussed were not

conducive to alcohol and all of our liquor license are on this side of St. Rt. 78.  Kevin Brooks asked Solicitor Ryan Regel if we can change days and times of DORA after the application has been approved and Solicitor Regel said the days and times can be modified but will probably have to go through the process of Council approval.  Solicitor Ryan Regel also said the application is a five-year renewal.  Mayor Hehr asked Solicitor Regel what he needed from Council to vote on the DORA application.  Solicitor Regel replied that once the packet is complete it will be brought before Council but as far as completing the packet a decision will need to be made on cups, location of signs, how many signs, and trash receptacles.  We can be as specific as we want, he feels it would be a good idea to put on the map where the trash receptacles are.  Certain things are required in the application but for the most part we can create our own.  Mayor Hehr has information on the cups that she is going to distribute to Council, she thinks there are some good ideas.  Kevin Brooks stated that some trash receptacles have been ordered for the downtown square.  Mr. Brooks said the signs would be similar to corporation signs, meaning they would be placed at the boundaries.  Solicitor Ryan Regel said that we could just order stickers for cups that would be distributed to the establishments. Kevin Brooks agreed that would be the most cost effective, just get red solo cups and place a sticker on it. Mayor Hehr would like to have all of the information together for the next meeting because we would like to have DORA to be in effect for alumni weekend. 

V.    Administrator Report:

     Kevin Brooks asked Lori Cunard about a Resolution that he had sent out to her, Brenda, and Ryan regarding the EPA loan application which was supposed to be in Council packets.  The Resolution was found and was previously approved. 

     Leann Harper asked for a Shelley and Sands update.  Kevin Brooks stated that because of the sidewalks being torn out, some of the businesses are upset but there is no way around it.  Shelley and Sands is aware of the issues and are working on it.    He said that Shelley and Sands hopes to be done and out of the Village by June 1st.  Leann Harper asked if Shelley and Sands could repair the parking lot behind the pool when they move their equipment out.  Because of the equipment moving in and out they have made a huge mud hole.  Mr. Brooks said he would talk to them and it would be taken care of.

VI.   Fiscal Officer Report:

     Fiscal Officer Lori Cunard asked that everyone look over the March bank statement and if there are any questions let her know.

     The auditors were in today and things went well. 

     Lori Cunard reported that she will be in Mayor’s Court training on April 26-28 in Columbus. 

VII.  Committee Chair/Council Reports:

      Dale English – Nothing to report.

      Tom Kirkland – absent.

      Anthony McDaniel – Nothing to report.

      Leann Harper – Leann Harper asked about the invoice for Snider Recreation, if it is for the trash receptacles?  Mayor Hehr stated it was for trash receptacles, and a piece of exercise equipment and picnic table for the walking trail.  Leann Harper asked if the exercise equipment and picnic table were grant money.  Mayor Hehr stated that it is grant money, but we have to pay for it first and then we get reimbursed through NatureWorks and the grant is already approved.  Leann Harper stated that she thinks the walking trail is very nice, but she is wondering if we should get a counter to monitor how many people are using the walking trail.  She is worried it is not being used much.  Mayor Hehr said she feels it needs to be promoted more but has not done it yet because of the construction and the future construction at the walking trail due to oil and gas pipeline.  She is hoping to talk to Equitrans next week to see when they

will be finishing the repair on the walking trail. Leann Harper feels that before we spend more money on the walking trail, she would like to know how much it is really being used. 

Anthony McDaniel asked Leann Harper if she has priced a counter because he agrees that it would be good data to have.  Kevin Brooks stated that he also thinks it is a good idea, but he has not priced any as of now.  He asked Council if they would like to look into getting a counter.  Leann Harper stated again that she just hates to keep spending money if it is being underutilized.   Mr. Brooks thinks it would be a good idea to have one in case we want to do more development at the walking trail area, and he doesn’t think a counter would be that costly.  This will be the first summer since the walking trail has been completed with the exercise equipment so we should get a good idea of how much it will get used.  Mayor Hehr stated that the Village owns over 100 acres up at the walking trail so it can be extended and there is a lot of potential there.  Currently, Mayor Hehr said there are no bikes allowed on the walking trail, but Leann Harper suggested having certain days of the week to allow bikes.  Anthony McDaniel asked if we own 100 acres why can’t we extend outside the walking trail for bikes?  Mr. Brooks said there definitely is a lot of potential to put something there that Woodsfield doesn’t already have.  Anthony McDaniel asked if someone could price the counters?  Kevin Brooks said he would check into the price of counters and let Council know.  Mayor Hehr also stated that the intention was to have the walking trail go down the hill to the school.  Kevin Brooks, however, does not think the Village owns the property behind the elementary school to the walking trail.  There is a gravel trail on the property that goes from the school to the main walking trail that the school has not maintained.  Mayor Hehr disagrees, she thinks the Village does own the property. 

     Tiffany Ramsay – Tiffany Ramsay said she has agreed to be on Mayor Hehr’s event planning committee.  There is a meeting on April 27th @ 5:30 p.m. at the City Building.  It is open to the public and they are still looking for more members.

     Mayor Hehr said she has been seeing people posting things on Facebook regarding the planning of events in the Village.  Mayor Hehr said she is glad to see people planning special events, but they do need to come to Council to get permission. 

     Mayor Hehr asked about getting the dumpsters for clean-up in the Village as we have done in the last few years.  Kevin Brooks said he was looking at bringing them in the first week of June, but he does not have a specific date yet.  Mayor Hehr said when advertising the clean-up week, we need to include that for senior citizens or disabled we will pick up from the sidewalk if they have their stuff sitting out.                                                                  

     Tiffany Ramsay asked about the Farmers Market and the possibility of changing the day.  Mayor Hehr explained that she suggested changing the day because the Health Department and senior citizens Farmers Market is on Wednesday and certain vendors would go to them and not the Village Farmers Market on Thursday.  Kevin Brooks stated that we have about 6 other vendors that prefer Thursdays, so he hates to change the day.  Mr. Brooks’ opinion is that the senior center Farmers Market will have a big reduction in participation because of where they are moving it to.  Leann Harper asked if Farmer’s Market would be starting the first Thursday in May, Mr. Brooks replied that it would be.  Mayor Hehr said she would check with the senior center about changing their Farmers Market to Thursday’s.    

     Matt Schaber – Nothing to report.

VIII:  Solicitor’s Report:

     Solicitor Ryan Regel did ask the previous Solicitor if he has the contract that has been in question, he said he would check but he highly doubts he has it. 

     Leann Harper asked if we should make the decisions needed for the DORA application and vote tonight.  She is mainly talking about days and times; she said it doesn’t matter to her what kind of cups.  Leann Harper said she is fine with using red solo cups and getting stickers for them and having DORA on Thursday – Sunday, 7:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m., Anthony McDaniel agreed.  Mayor Hehr said she has a problem with having it on Sunday, her opinion is that we will have more opposition having it on Sunday.  Dale English also said he would rather not have it on Sunday.  Council agreed that Thursday – Saturday, 6:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. would be the days and times for DORA.  Kevin Brooks explained the location of the signs and he will provide the locations for the trash receptacles.  Leann Harper asked if there needs

to be a public meeting before we can vote on these items and yes there does need to be a public meeting so nothing will be voted on yet tonight. 

IX:   Mayor’s Report:

     Mayor Hehr asked for a motion to approve the payment of bills.  Matt Schaber made the motion.  Dale English second.  Tom Kirkland – absent.  Motion passed 5-0. 

     Mayor Hehr asked for a motion to approve the Mayor’s Court Report, March 2023, and mid-April 2023.  Anthony McDaniel made the motion.  Leann Harper second.  Tom Kirkland – absent.  Motion passed 5-0.

     Mayor Hehr asked for a motion to approve the Income Tax Report, March 2023.  Kevin Brooks stated that we are further ahead on income tax collections this year as compared to last and he feels RITA is doing an excellent job.   Anthony McDaniel asked if RITA could make any projections for the rest of the year.  Kevin Brooks said he doesn’t think they project but we get reports from them regularly.  Tiffany Ramsay made the motion.  Matt Schaber second.  Tom Kirkland – absent.  Motion passed 5-0.

     Mayor Hehr reported that she attended a Landbank meeting today.  They feel sure it will be funded again.  If anyone has any houses needing torn down in the Village, they can contact Mayor Carol Hehr or houses in the County contact Taylor Abbott.

     Mayor Hehr stated that tomorrow she will be attending an Appalachian Grant meeting at the Generations Building and will also be meeting with the Auditor.

      Kevin Brooks said that due to the amount of the Snider Recreation invoice that it should be approved by Council.  Anthony McDaniel made a motion to approve payment to Snider Recreation in the amount of $12,793.00 for trash receptacles, exercise equipment, and a picnic table.  Leann Harper second.  Tom Kirkland – absent.  Motion passed 5-0.  Leann Harper asked if the trash receptacles on the invoice is a part of the NatureWorks grant and they are not. 

XI.  Un-Registered Visitors:

     None

XII. Adjourn:

      The Mayor asked for a motion to adjourn the meeting.  Dale English made the motion.  Leann Harper second.  Tom Kirkland – absent.  Meeting adjourned at 6:42 p.m.

ATTEST:

______________________________                                                 ____________________________

Carol Hehr, Mayor                                                                                  Lori Cunard, Fiscal Officer                                                                                      

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Meeting Minutes (3-20-23)

                                        The Council of the Village of Woodsfield

                                                             March 20, 2023

The Council of the Village of Woodsfield met in Regular Session on March 20, 2023.

I.  Roll Call:

     Present:  Council Members; Dale English, Tom Kirkland, Anthony McDaniel, Leann Harper, Tiffany Ramsay; Mayor Carol Hehr, Fiscal Officer Lori Cunard, and Village Administrator Kevin Brooks.

     Absent:  Councilman Matt Schaberand Solicitor Ryan Regel.

II.   Pending Meeting Minutes Approval:

      Dale English made a motion to accept the March 6, 2023 meeting minutes as written and the March 8, 2023 Special Meeting Minutes as written.  Leann Harper second.  Matt Schaber – absent.  Motion passed 5-0. 

III. Registered Visitors/Guest:

      Eric Preston, Laborer/Cemetery – Eric Preston attended the meeting to be introduced to Council.  He is the new hire for the Cemetery Laborer position.  Mayor Carol Hehr welcomed Eric Preston as an employee of the Village.  Village Administrator Kevin Brooks said that Mr. Preston will be cross trained to help in other areas such as reading meters and last week he was at the City building cleaning walks with Mr. Eikleberry when it snowed.  Mr. Brooks said Mr. Preston has been very agreeable to being trained in different jobs along with what he was hired for at the Cemetery. 

     Hunter Thomas, Water Department – Hunter Thomas attended the meeting to be introduced to Council.  He is the new hire for the Water Plant as Operator in training and will hopefully sit for his EPA Licensure in the next year.  Council welcomed Mr. Thomas to the Village.  Mr. Thomas said he appreciates the opportunity and things have been going great.    

 IV.  Old Business:

     DORA – Nothing new to report on for the DORA District as of now.

V.  Administrator Report:

     Kevin Brooks requested Executive Session, Personnel/Compensation at the end of the meeting.  Mayor Hehr asked Mr. Brooks if he would report on the grants that were submitted for the Village.  Mr. Brooks stated that we submitted earmark requests to Congressman Johnson’s Office for 3 projects.  They include Phase II Water/Sewer Separation, Woodsfield Government Center Building, and the Downtown Revitalization.  We will be submitting requests to Senator J. D. Vance’s office in the next couple weeks, and we will also submit requests to Governor Sherrod Brown’s office.  The priority on the projects is the Government Center as #1, Water/Sewer Separation #2, and Downtown Revitalization #3.  They were prioritized based on what are our other funding options and which request has the highest probability of being funded.  We worked with CT Consultants for quite some time and got them submitted or ready for submission on time, now we will just wait and see if we get any of the grants.  Kevin Brooks said that several people have been asking when the completion will be of the new Government Center and the best-case scenario is start construction in spring of 2024 with completion in fall 2024 and worst case scenario is start construction in the fall 2024 with completion in spring 2025. 

VII.  Fiscal Officer Report:

      Fiscal Officer Lori Cunard asked if everyone signed the bank reconciliation. 

      Lori Cunard is working with James Bates, CPA.  Mr. Bates will be doing the audit of the Village.  Mrs. Cunard has submitted the reports that he has requested. 

      Lori Cunard reminded Council that next week is the LGOC in Columbus that she and Kevin Brooks is attending.  Kevin Brooks and Lori Cunard are doing the Public Records training as designees for Council. 

      Leann Harper asked Mrs. Cunard if she had gotten any current CD rates.  Lori Cunard replied that she had not, the rates change weekly and WesBanco increased the interest rate to 3.50% on the sweep account.   Kevin Brooks spoke up to say that we would like to wait until after the audit to invest to make sure we have no issues that need addressed.  After the audit is complete, he would like to talk to the State so maybe they could give us some direction on investing. 

     Lori Cunard also wanted Council to know that the United Health Dental does not send cards to members.  To get a card members need to register an account and request a card. 

     Leann Harper asked if Lori Cunard could explain the USDA statement in Council packets.  Mrs. Cunard explained that USDA tried to pull the payment from Citizens in January so now the payment will not be pulled from WesBanco until March 27th and the amount has changed. 

VIII.  Committee Chair/Council Reports:

      Dale English – Nothing to report.

     Tom Kirkland – Tom Kirkland said he would like to thank Brian Harrigan, Water/Sewer Superintendent and Andy Copley, Street Superintendent and their crews for the work they did at Andover Road on the sewer repair.  There is still some work to be done out there but the sewer is fixed, and Mr. Kirkland commended them on the job they did. 

      Anthony McDaniel – Anthony McDaniel stated that he was approached by EMS.  They are having a back-up power generator installed at the building and they are currently fueling it with propane because they have no gas line that runs to their building for natural gas.  They have asked if the Village would consider assisting them with having natural gas run to the building, which would just be crossing the road.  Kevin Brooks asked if Dominion would be doing it or if it is a private contractor.  Mr. Brooks said he has no issue with putting a gas line to the building but when talking about crossing the road it could get extremely expensive.  Kevin Brooks said they would either have to cut the road, which he doesn’t really want to do, or bore under the road which is costly.  He would like to know the cost and how they would be doing it before we could give an answer.  Mr. Brooks thinks there should be a gas line in the area somewhere that we would not have to cross the road.  Tom Kirkland said that Dominion should be able to tell us where there is a line to tie into.  Kevin Brooks said he would be glad to talk to someone at EMS about it in more detail. 

      Leann Harper – Nothing to report.

     Tiffany Ramsay – Tiffany Ramsay reported the Downtown Revitalization Committee will be having a meeting on Monday, March 27th at 6:00 p.m. at the City building.

     Matt Schaber – absent.

IX:  Solicitor’s Report:

     None

X:  Mayor’s Report:

      Mayor Hehr asked for a motion for the payment of bills.  Tom Kirkland made the motion.  Dale English second.  Matt Schaber – absent.  Motion passed 5-0. 

     Mayor Hehr reported that she still has not had to do Mayor’s Court but on Monday morning there could possibly be 3 cases.  Mayor Hehr asked for a motion to approve the Mayor’s Court Report, mid-March 2023.  Anthony McDaniel made the motion.  Leann Harper second.  Matt Schaber – absent. Motion passed 5-0.  Anthony McDaniel asked what time they will be doing Mayor’s Court on Monday morning, the Mayor replied 9:00 a.m.

     Mayor Hehr asked for a motion to pass Ordinance #03-2023, An Ordinance Providing for Amending and Revising Specific Line-Items in the Appropriations of Expenditures for the Village of Woodsfield for the Calendar Year 2023 and Declaring an Emergency.   Leann Harper made the motion.  Anthony McDaniel second.  Dale English – yes, Tom Kirkland – yes, Tiffany Ramsay – yes, Matt Schaber – absent.  Motion passed 5-0. 

     Mayor Hehr asked for a motion to suspend the rules and pass Ordinance #03-2023 by its second reading, Declaring it an Emergency.  Dale English made the motion.  Leann Harper second.  Tom

Kirkland – yes, Anthony McDaniel – yes, Tiffany Ramsay – yes, Matt Schaber – absent.  Motion passed 5-0. 

     Mayor Hehr asked for a motion to suspend the rules and pass Ordinance #03-2023 by it third reading, Declaring it an Emergency and adopt.  Anthony McDaniel made the motion.  Tom Kirkland second.  Dale English – yes, Leann Harper – yes, Tiffany Ramsay – yes, Matt Schaber – absent.  Motion passed.  Ordinance #03-2023 adopted.

     Kreg Robison, MC Beacon, asked if lines could be painted for parking spaces in front of the Beacon office.  Kevin Brooks said it would be no problem, he would talk to Andy Copley, Street Superintendent, about it. 

     Mr. Robison stated that the Monroe County Commissioners met with representatives from Swiss Valley today.  Swiss Valley is a grant provider and he asked about the Village working with them to get a part of the $5,000,000 from the Appalachian grant money.  Kevin Brooks said we are working with CT Consultants to submit grant requests.   Mayor Hehr spoke up and said we have applied for the Appalachian grant and she has been going to every meeting and is going to a meeting at Buckeye Hills on Thursday morning. 

     Mayor Hehr reported that she and Kevin Brooks have talked to an individual with the Alumni Association about getting a sound system for the Village for parades and special events.  She said she found a $1,000.00 grant through the Foundation for Appalachian funds called the Dale Hillman Legacy Fund to help with the purchase of a sound system, so she wrote the grant over the weekend.  Mayor Hehr talked to Lewis Hill, Electric Superintendent, and he said he would try and come up with something to make it portable so it can be moved to different areas of the Village.  She has no idea what the cost of a sound system will be, it may be out of the ballpark, but she will keep Council updated.  Kevin Brooks spoke up and said it is much needed and making it portable is a very good idea.

     Mayor Hehr is still looking for volunteers to help plan special events in the Village, she has only one person that has volunteered so far. 

     Mayor Hehr thanked Dale English for attending the District Advisory Committee Meeting and she will be going to Buckeye Hills on Thursday for the Appalachian grant.

     Mayor Hehr attended the landbank meeting today and it’s looking like we will get funding again.  As of now, she has 9 houses on her list.  She will have to contact the owners to see if they are interested in having them torn down. 

     Mayor Hehr attended a meeting last Thursday for Summer Youth Program.  There were representatives from GMN and JFS there and they are doing the Summer Youth Program.  Mayor Hehr thought it may be a good idea to check into the Program for the Cemetery or even other departments if needed because the kids are available to work, we have used the Program in the past, and it is free.  She said they will be sending applications around to the schools for kids to fill out.

     Mayor Hehr reported that she would like to give Proclamation’s to residents in the Village who turn 100 years old.  Jean Eggar will be turning 100 this weekend and Mayor Hehr has a Proclamation to present to her.  Mayor Hehr read the Proclamation to Council and asked for a motion from Council to accept the Proclamation for Jean Eggar.  Dale English made the motion.  Tom Kirkland second.  Matt Schaber – absent.  Motion passed 5-0. 

     Dale English reported that he had a gentleman contact him today regarding special events in the Village.  He has a band and would like to play sometime for the Village, he has some dates available in August.  

XI.  Un-Registered Visitors:

     None

     Mayor Hehr asked for a motion to go into Executive Session regarding Personnel/Compensation.  Anthony McDaniel made the motion.  Leann Harper second.  Motion passed 5-0.  Executive Session entered at 6:20 p.m.

     Mayor Hehr asked for a motion to go back into Regular Session.  Dale English made the motion.  Tom Kirkland second.  Matt Schaber – absent.  Motion passed 5-0.   Regular Session entered at 7:20 p.m.

     Mayor Hehr asked for a motion to increase Vincent Palombi, Water/Sewer Department, wages from $11.69/hr. to $13.00/hr., Jesse Lewis, Light Plant, increase wages from $13.79/hr. to $15.79/hr., and Brian Harrigan, Water/Sewer Superintendent, increase wages from $46,000.00/yr. to $48,300.00/yr.

These increases take effect for the pay period starting March 13th.   Tom Kirkland made the motion.  Leann Harper second.  Matt Schaber – absent.  Motion passed 5-0.

XII. Adjourn:

   The Mayor asked for a motion to adjourn the meeting.  Leann Harper made the motion to adjourn.  Tiffany Ramsay second.  Matt Schaber – absent.  Motion passed 5-0.  The meeting was adjourned at 7:30 p.m. 

ATTEST:

______________________________                                                 ____________________________

Carol Hehr, Mayor                                                                                  Lori Cunard, Fiscal Officer                                                                                      

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