Martins Ferry City Council Special Meeting Minutes of Tuesday, May 27, 2025

Posted on: June 23, 2025

The Martins Ferry City Council met in Special Session on Tuesday, May 27, 2025 at 10:00 a.m., in the Donald Myers Council Chambers.  The meeting was called to order by Council President Kristine Davis with the Pledge of Allegiance recited by those present followed by a prayer by the Acting Clerk.   Auditor Jack Regis assumed the Clerk’s duties at this meeting since Ms. McFarlan was unable to attend.  Answering Roll Call were Bob Hunker, First Ward Council Member; Spencer Echemann, Second Ward Council Member; Suzanne Armstrong, Third Ward Council Member; Rick Rodgers, Fourth Ward Council Member and James Schramm, Council at Large Member.  Absent: Ben Neiman and James Agnew, Council at Large Members.  Note:  There were 5 Council Members present which constitutes a quorum and a majority of the votes.    

This Special Meeting was called for consideration of the AFSCME contract and any miscellaneous business that needs addressed. 

Before the meeting, Council Members were emailed or given copies of the proposed contract.  Auditor Regis advised that the respective accounts could handle the increases in the contract. 

Mr. Rodgers made a motion that Council approve the AFSCME contract.  Mr. Schramm seconded the motion.  A roll call vote was heard with Rodgers, Schramm, Hunker, Echemann and Armstrong voting yes.  The motion was declared passed.

A Real Estate Committee Meeting was scheduled for Friday, May 30 at 10:00 a.m.

A Finance Committee Meeting was scheduled for Friday, May 30 immediately following the Real Estate Committee Meeting to discuss a potential raise for Police Chief Murphy. 

Chief Murphy announced he received an email that the Department was awarded $20,600 for the purchase of block cameras for License Plate Readers.  This is a 100% funded grant and will supply the city with 4 cameras to install in different sections of the city. 

Motion was made by Mr. Hunker to adjourn and seconded by Mr. Rodgers.  After an affirmative voice vote, the motion carried and the meeting was adjourned at 11:08 a.m. with a salute to the flag.

___________________________________               ___________________________________
Kay H. McFarlan, Clerk of Council                           Kristine Davis, Council President

___________________________________
Date

Martins Ferry City Council Meeting Minutes of May 21, 2025

Posted on: June 23, 2025

The Martins Ferry City Council met in Regular Session on Wednesday, May 21, 2025 at 4:30 p.m., at the Donald Myers Council Chambers.  The meeting was called to order by Council President Kristine Davis with the Pledge of Allegiance recited by those present in chamber, followed by a prayer by the Clerk.   Answering Roll Call were Bob Hunker, First Ward Council Member, Spencer Echemann, Second Ward Council Member; Suzanne Armstrong, Third Ward Council Member; Rick Rodgers, Fourth Ward Council Member; James Agnew and Jim Schramm, Council at Large Members.   Absent:  Ben Neiman, Council at Large Member.   

            Mr. Neiman spoke to President Davis and asked if Council would consider meeting at the Recreation Center so he would be able to attend the next meeting. 

            President Davis discussed holding only 3 regular meetings this summer on June 18, July 16 and August 20.  Special meetings could be called if necessary.  

            Minutes:  Minutes of the May 7, 2025 Regular Council Meeting were approved as written.  

Correspondence:  There was no correspondence. 

Reports of Officers of the City:

Mayor:  Mayor Davies asked for an Executive Session regarding contracts, before voting on anything pertaining to the city.  Crews are behind with pothole patching due to the number of projects needing attention such as sewer repairs, water line breaks and weather related issues. 

The swimming pool should be opened on Tuesday, May 27.

The Mayor and Service Director are still seeking funding for the school road project.

There is some “movement” at the East Ohio Regional Hospital site and it is hoped that the hospital can re-open with a different owner. 

Sewer line repairs have been started on Zane Highway from Willow Street to Adam Street.  Two catch basins are also being installed. 

Service Director:  Employees are trying to get the grass cut so the cemetery can look nice for Memorial Day. 

The Park District is getting the pool ready to open next week.  Life guards have been hired.  Mr. Sutak posted a job opening for a Pool Manager on the city’s website.  He hopes the Ordinance to transfer funds to the Recreation Department passes so he can structure the hours of the Pool Manager based on the funding.  

            Auditor:  The Finance Committee and Auditor are monitoring the Sanitation Department Line Item.  The Street Sweeper was paid off this month and the Packer will be paid off in November.  Employee Medical Insurance will increase by 4.97% for the next contract period which will included 1 free month of insurance.  Mr. Regis figured the city will lose around $14,000 in income taxes because of the job cuts this year in the School District.  He also clarified for Council the County Certification. 

            Law Director:  No report. 

            Police Department:  The Department will have a Civil Service Examination on June 25 at 10:00 a.m. in Council Chambers.  This will enable the Department to create an eligibility list for hiring additional police officers.  Chief Murphy report a few more conditions need to be met before funding for block cameras can be secured. 

            Fire Department: No report.

Code Administrator: No report.

            Park District: No report.      

            Water Department:  No report.       

Reports of Committees of Council:   

            Finance and Audit:   The committee met on May 15, 2025 and discussed funding for the North Ridge and Overhill Drive slip repair.  Grant money has been secured but the city still has to fund 25% of the projected cost of $1,000,000. 

The committee recommended giving the Recreation Department $15,000 from the General Fund for the months of June, July and August and $5,000 per month thereafter as deemed necessary by the Administration.  This funding situation will be reviewed every 90 days.  An Ordinance dealing with this issue will be read later in the meeting. 

The Committee requested that Council loan the Street Department $20,000, from the General Fund, until it recovers.  However, if recovery doesn’t happen, rates will have to be increased.  Mr. Sutak offered several reasons why the Sanitation Department Fund was low, such as a broken Packer and using the transfer boxes 5 days a week instead of once a week. 

Minutes of this meeting will be filed with these minutes. 

Street: No report.

Ordinance:  Rev. Agnew reported two Ordinances will go to a first reading tonight as well as another ordinance that will go to a second reading. 

            Sewer/Sidewalk:  Mr. Echemann reported the Committee met on Friday, May 16 to discuss the retaining wall at Tom Probst’s property on Elm Street.  The Committee came to the decision that the wall was not on the city’s property and was not the city’s responsibility.  Minutes of this meeting will be filed with these minutes. 

            Safety: No report.

            Service:  Mr. Schramm thanked the members of the Sewer Department for clearing out the sewer on 6^th Street. 

            Real Estate/Building and Grounds: No report. 

Cemetery:  No report.

Public Relations:  No report.

Utility:  No report.

            Code Administration:  No report.

Income Tax: Mrs. Armstrong contacted R.I.T.A. for an update regarding income tax paid by a local company.  Their response was “as this issue has a potential to involve confidential information, their correspondence will be solely with Jack Regis, who is the main contact”.  Mr. Regis will address this issue since Council doesn’t think the information requested is confidential. 

Citizens To Be Heard:  President Davis reminded citizens to limit their speaking to 5 minutes.  

Richard Hord, 915 Virginia Street, thanked everyone involved in trying to get East Ohio Regional Hospital reopened.  Regarding allocation funding from the County, a meeting has tentatively been set for May 27 to speak with the Commissioners, Budget Commission, and anyone else in the County who wants to talk about the methodology on how the Commissioners distributed the funding.  There were no updates on Austin Masters, the former Staffilino building and the property on 4^th Street owned by Dr. Johnson.  Mr. Hord mentioned that May 22 will be Don Falbo’s 73rd Anniversary as a barber. 

Larry Riser, 57019 Ferryview Road, on behalf of the Martins Ferry Boosters Club, asked for help with parking during home Football Games since the hospital’s parking lots will not be available until later this this fall.  He asked if the city could clear out some of the dilapidated vehicles in the old city’s maintenance garage area in order to maximize the lot for parking.    The Mayor said he would need Council’s permission to scrap these vehicles.  Mr. Stecker said it would be best to have the titles to these vehicles before they are scrapped.

Mr. Hunker made a motion for Council to go into Executive Session under Ohio Revised Code 121-22, G4 for Personnel Issues.  Rev. Agnew seconded the motion.  A roll call vote was heard with Hunker, Echemann, Armstrong, Rodgers, Agnew and Schramm voting yes.  The motion carried and Council went into Executive Session.  

Mr. Hunker made a motion for Council to go out of Executive Session.  Motion was seconded by Mr. Schramm. A roll call vote was heard with Hunker, Echemann, Armstrong, Rodgers, Agnew and Schramm voting yes.  The motion carried and Council went out of Executive Session and back into regular session. 

Ordinances and Resolutions:  

            An Ordinance Amending Property Violation Fines Set By City Ordinance.

This Ordinance was given a second reading.  This Ordinance will go to a third reading.

Mr. Hunker made a motion to suspend the 72 hour rule.  Mrs. Armstrong seconded the motion.  A roll call vote was heard with Hunker, Echemann, Armstrong, Rodgers, Agnew and Schramm voting yes.  The motion carried and the Ordinance was given a first reading.  

An Ordinance Prohibiting the Parking of Commercial Vehicles in Residential Districts. 

Motion was made by Mrs. Armstrong to suspend the rules for 3 readings.  Mr. Echemann seconded the motion.  A roll call vote was heard with Armstrong, Rodgers, Agnew, Schramm, Hunker and Echemann, voting yes.  The motion carried.   Motion was made by Mrs. Armstrong to pass the ordinance as read.  Motion was seconded by Mr. Schramm.  A roll call vote was heard with Armstrong, Rodgers, Agnew, Schramm, Hunker and Echemann voting yes.  Motion carried and the Ordinance was declared passed.

Rev. Agnew made a motion to suspend the 72 hour rule.  Mr. Schramm seconded the motion.  A roll call vote was heard with Agnew, Schramm, Hunker, Echemann, Armstrong, and Rodgers voting yes.  The motion carried and the Ordinance was given a first reading.  

An Ordinance Transferring Funds To The Recreation Department.   

Motion was made by Mr. Echemann to suspend the rules for 3 readings.  Rev. Agnew seconded the motion.  A roll call vote was heard with Echemann, Armstrong, Rodgers, Agnew, Schramm, and Hunker voting yes.  The motion carried.   Motion was made by Mr. Rodgers to pass the ordinance as read.  Motion was seconded by Mr. Schramm.  A roll call vote was heard with Rodgers, Agnew, Schramm, Hunker, Echemann and Armstrong voting yes.  Motion carried and the Ordinance was declared passed.

AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE CITY OF MARTINS

FERRY TO ENTER INTO A CONTRACT FOR THE ZANE

HIGHWAY 12” WATERLINE CONNECTION TO AETNA

STREET BOOSTER STATION AND DECLARING AN

EMERGENC       

Miscellaneous Business:   

Mr. Echemann made a motion to accept the Statement of Cash Position.  Motion was seconded by Rev. Agnew.  After an affirmative voice vote, the motion carried.

Motion was made by Mrs. Armstrong to change the schedule of Council Meetings for June, July and August to only the second normally scheduled Wednesday of the month (June 18, July 16 and August 20).  Meetings to be held at the Recreation Center at 4:30 p.m.  A roll call vote was heard with Armstrong, Rodgers, Agnew, Schramm, Hunker and Echemann voting yes.  Motion carried. 

Mr. Schramm made a motion to allow the Mayor and Service Director to scrap the dilapidated vehicles on the city owned First Street Lot.  Motion was seconded by Mr. Rodgers.  A roll call vote was heard with Schramm, Hunker, Echemann, Armstrong, Rodgers, and Agnew voting yes.  The motion was declared passed. 

The Strawberry Festival will be held on Saturday, June 7, 2025.  Mrs. Armstrong made a motion to allow Project Forward to close 4^th. Street from Hanover to Hickory Street, Walnut Street from 3^rd. Street to 5^th. Street and Hickory Street from 4^th Street to 5^th Street for the Strawberry Festival.  Motion was seconded by Mr. Hunker.  A roll call vote was heard with Armstrong, Rodgers, Agnew, Schramm, Hunker and Echemann voting yes.  Motion carried. 

President Davis received a revised proposal from Chief Murphy asking for consideration of the wage adjustment.  She has forwarded a copy to Mr. Hunker so the Finance Committee can decide on an answer.  An email with the proposal will be sent to all Council Members. 

Mr. Hunker made a motion to appropriate 2% of the Income Tax to the Street Department line item.  Motion was seconded by Rev. Agnew.   A roll call vote was heard with Hunker, Echemann, Armstrong, Agnew and Schramm voting yes.  The motion carried.  (Note: Mr. Rodgers was not present for this vote).

Rev. Agnew made a motion to excuse Mr. Neiman from tonight’s meeting.  Mr. Echemann seconded the motion.  After an affirmative voice vote, the motion passed.  

Mr. Schramm made a motion to reflect Council has received reports from the Officers and Management, and to incorporate these reports into the minutes.  Motion was seconded by Mrs. Armstrong.   After an affirmative voice vote, the motion carried. 

President Davis received an email from Aspen Energy regarding Energy Aggregation.  After speaking to Mr. Sutak, it was suggested to spend some time this year asking for public opinion regarding this issue.  It is difficult for citizens to understand that they must “opt out” of the program, otherwise it changes automatically.   

             Mr. Echemann moved to adjourn, which was seconded by Mrs. Armstrong.  After an affirmative voice vote, the meeting was adjourned at 5:38 p.m. with a salute to the flag.

            The next meeting of the Martins Ferry Council will be on Wednesday, June 18, 2025 at 4:30 p.m. in Council Chambers. 

___________________________________               ___________________________________
Kay H. McFarlan, Clerk of Council                           Kristine Davis, Council President

___________________________________
Date

Martins Ferry City Council Meeting Minutes of May 7, 2025

Posted on: May 22, 2025

The Martins Ferry City Council met in Regular Session on Wednesday, May 7, 2025 at 4:30 p.m., at the Donald Myers Council Chambers.  The meeting was called to order by Council President Kristine Davis with the Pledge of Allegiance recited by those present in chamber, followed by a prayer by the Clerk.   Answering Roll Call were Bob Hunker, First Ward Council Member, Spencer Echemann, Second Ward Council Member; Suzanne Armstrong, Third Ward Council Member; Rick Rodgers, Fourth Ward Council Member; and Jim Schramm, Council at Large Member.   Absent:  James Agnew and Ben Neiman, Council at Large Members.         

            Minutes:  Minutes of the April 16, 2025 Regular Council Meeting and the May 5, 2025 Special Council Meeting were approved as written.  

Correspondence:  There was no correspondence. 

Reports of Officers of the City:

Mayor:  Mayor Davies reported the city will be installing catch basins on South Zane Highway to help alleviate water run-off and flooding near Naylor Bros. Towing. Cost will be around $5,000. 

Funding has been secured for road slip repairs on North Ridge Drive and Overhill Drive.  The cost of the project is $1,000,000 and the city’s share will be 25% or approximately $239,000.  The Mayor made some suggestions on how to fund this project.  This issue will be referred to the Finance Committee. 

Regarding the local government funding proposal from the County Commissioners, the Mayor pointed out that they increased Martins Ferry’s local government funds by $10,000 but they decreased the City’s Park District by $5,000.  He wants to meet with the Commissioners to discuss the rationale for the distribution of funds.   A letter has been composed to send to the Commissioners, and with Council’s approval, the Mayor will take it out to the Commissioner’s Office tomorrow. 

The Mayor and Service Director have been closely monitoring the Sanitation Fund.  On May 1, the fund was $7,700 down in revenue vs. expenditures.  During January to March, there were 10 employees in the Sanitation Department because a Packer was broke and employees were transferred from other departments to help collect garbage.  The Mayor asked that if needed, would Council loan the Sanitation Department $20,000 until it recovers?  If recovery doesn’t happen, rates will have to be increased.  Spring Clean-Up will be Saturday, May 10 and will cost the city about $3,000, which includes labor and tipping costs.   

On July 1, 2025, the Mayor will be part-time and not in the office every day. 

Paving, on Spring Haven Drive down to West Vine Street, will begin on Tuesday, May 13, weather permitting.

The Mayor asked Council to consider creating an Ordinance that would prohibit Tractor Trailers to be parked in residential areas.  Mr. Echemann will contact Rev. Agnew, Ordinance Committee Chairperson, to schedule a meeting to discuss this issue.

Service Director:  Mr. Sutak did not have anything else to add and said the Mayor covered everything.

            Auditor:  Mr. Regis asked Council to make a motion to accept the Financial Reports, Payroll Summary and New Hire Report. 

            Law Director:  No report. 

            Police Department:  Chief Murphy gave the end of April, 2025 Report.  The Ohio Department of Homeland Security conducted aerial mapping of the city (including the school).  This will aid in situational awareness, emergency management, criminal investigations, criminal apprehensions and event management.  The Chief has spoken to the Martins Ferry School Superintendent about obtaining a renewal contract with the city for 2 School Resource Officers.   

            Fire Department: No report.  Justin Smith, Assistant Fire Chief, told President Davis that during the summer months, he would email her with any concerns or requests from the Department.

Code Administrator: No report.

            Park District: No report.      

            Water Department:  No report.       

Reports of Committees of Council:   

            Finance and Audit:   Mr. Hunker scheduled a Finance Meeting for Thursday, May 15, 2025 at 10:00 a.m. 

Street: No report.

Ordinance:  A meeting will be scheduled to discuss creating an Ordinance to prohibit Tractor Trailers in residential areas. 

            Sewer/Sidewalk:  No report.

            Safety: No report.

            Service:  No report.

            Cemetery:  No report.

Public Relations:  No report.

            Code Administration:  No report.

Real Estate/Building and Grounds: The Committee met on April 21, 2025 to discuss the proposed sale of 9 acres of property in Crawford Heights.  This property was advertised twice before and the buyers backed out leaving the City to pay the advertising fees.  It is mostly hillside and there has been slip problems at the location.  The Committee recommends not selling the property at this time.  Minutes of the meeting will be filed with these minutes. 

Utility:  No report.

Income Tax: Mrs. Armstrong reported the city income tax for the 1^st quarter of 2025 and penalties for 2023 and 2024 were received by R.I.T.A. for 3 employees of the local Heating and Cooling Company. R.I.T.A. reports this is a slow process because more information is being requested for 2023 and 2024, along with W-2s for all employees. 

Citizens To Be Heard:  President Davis reminded citizens to limit their speaking to 5 minutes.  

Tom Probst, 722 Elm Street, discussed a retaining wall on Vine Street that has partially collapsed on his property.  According to a County Map, the property line is inside the wall.  The Mayor believes the city did not build the wall and doesn’t have the man power to build a wall.  An actual survey is needed, not a copy of the County Record Map.  Council was encouraged to go to the property and get a “visual” of what is happening.  Mr. Echemann will schedule a Sewer/Sidewalk Committee Meeting to discuss this matter. 

Richard Hord, 915 Virginia Street, was told that “No Trespassing Signs” were posted at East Ohio Regional Hospital because people were in the building that shouldn’t be there.  The city is not involved with any of the law suits being brought against Austin Masters.  The owner of the former Staffilino Building is looking into different options for the property other than an auto dealership.  Mr. Hord thanked the City Administration for patching potholes throughout the city.  The Street Sweeper is not operational at this time.  Terri Leasure is doing some code enforcement such as writing tickets for property owners who have high grass and trash not secured in proper containers. 

Deanna Montgomery, 18 South 3^rd. Street, complained of her neighbors feeding birds, rodents and feral cats.  She was advised to provide video from her cameras to the Police Department and they would take care of it. 

Don Kline, 1010 Dutch Hill Road, Crawford Heights, asked when a start date would be for the for road slip repairs on North Ridge Drive and Overhill Drive.  Mr. Sutak said it hasn’t gone out for bid yet but the Mayor said the project will be completed this year. 

Ordinances and Resolutions:  

            An Ordinance Amending Property Violation Fines Set By City Ordinance.

This Ordinance was given a first reading.   This Ordinance will go to a second reading. 

AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE CITY OF MARTINS

FERRY TO ENTER INTO A CONTRACT FOR THE ZANE

HIGHWAY 12” WATERLINE CONNECTION TO AETNA

STREET BOOSTER STATION AND DECLARING AN

EMERGENC       

Miscellaneous Business:   

Motion was made by Mr. Schramm to have Council take a vote whether to approve or disapprove the recommendations of the County Commissioners for the local government funding.   Mr. Hunker seconded the motion.  Schramm, Hunker, Armstrong, and Rodgers, voted to deny the recommendations.  Mr. Echemann abstained.  The majority vote was to deny the recommendations by the Commissioners.  A letter will be delivered to the Commissioners tomorrow (May 8) stating why the city has denied the proposed allocations of local government funding.

Mr. Rodgers made a motion to support the renewal of the contract for the Resource Officers for the Martins Ferry Schools.  Motion was seconded by Mr. Schramm.  A roll call vote was heard with Rodgers, Schramm, Hunker, Echemann and Armstrong voting yes.  The motion was declared passed.

Mrs. Armstrong made a motion to note that Council has accepted the Financial Report, Check Register and New Hire Report from the Auditor.  Seconded by Mr. Echemann.  After an affirmative voice vote, the motion carried. 

Mr. Rodgers made a motion to excuse Mr. Neiman and Rev. Agnew from tonight’s meeting.  Motion was seconded by Mr. Hunker.  After an affirmative voice vote, the motion carried. 

Mr. Schramm made a motion to reflect Council has received reports from the Officers and Management, and to incorporate these reports into the minutes.  Motion was seconded by Mr. Echemann.   After an affirmative voice vote, the motion passed.    

             Mrs. Armstrong moved to adjourn, which was seconded by Mr. Hunker.  After an affirmative voice vote, the meeting was adjourned at 5:27 p.m. with a salute to the flag.

            The next meeting of the Martins Ferry Council will be on Wednesday, May 21, 2025 at 4:30 p.m. in Council Chambers. 

___________________________________               ___________________________________
Kay H. McFarlan, Clerk of Council                           Kristine Davis, Council President

___________________________________
Date

Martins Ferry City Council Special Meeting Minutesof Monday, May 5, 2025

Posted on: May 8, 2025

The Martins Ferry City Council met in Special Session on Monday, May 5, 2025 at 11:00 a.m., in the Donald Myers Council Chambers.  The meeting was called to order by Council President Kristine Davis with the Pledge of Allegiance recited by those present.   Auditor Jack Regis assumed the Clerk’s duties at this meeting since Ms. McFarlan was unable to attend.  Answering Roll Call were Spencer Echemann, Second Ward Council Member; Suzanne Armstrong, Third Ward Council Member; Rick Rodgers, Fourth Ward Council Member and James Agnew, Council at Large Member.  Absent: Bob Hunker, First Ward Council Member, Ben Neiman and Jim Schramm, Council at Large Members.  Note:  There were 4 Council Members present which constitutes a quorum and a majority of the votes.    

This Special Meeting was called for review of contracts and miscellaneous business. 

Mr. Sutak applied for a grant to fix road slippages on North Ridge Drive and Overhill Drive.  Total cost for the project is $1,000,000.  The grant was awarded, however the city’s share of the project is $225,000 for both projects.  The Mayor has signed the paperwork for the project and the issue for financing the city’s cost of $225,000 will be referred to the Finance Committee. 

Mayor Davies is not in favor of the County’s Budget Commission Report.  All the increases went to the western side of Belmont County, such as Barnesville and St. Clairsville.  Martins Ferry’s Park District portion was cut by $5,000.  The Mayor also thinks that 10% of the money isn’t enough.  It should be at least a minimum of 15% because Martins Ferry is the largest city in the County.  St. Clairsville received a 2 ½ % increase where Martins Ferry received only a ½ % increase.   

Mr. Sutak explained that previous boards of Commissioners have waived their 15% because of all the funding they had been receiving, mainly from Gas and Oil Taxes. 

Mayor Davies reviewed the increases for a few communities, and was puzzled that St. Clairsville had a $50,000 increase and Barnesville has a $41,000 increase, but Martins Ferry’s share only increased by $10,300.  Shadyside, which is only a Village, increased by $16,000.  The Commissioners asked for a response from the City by May 8.  However, the Mayor asked Mr. Stecker to check on this because he believes the deadline is August 8.  Mr. Sutak informed Council that most of the local government funding goes to the safety forces. 

It was suggested to send a letter to the Commissioners asking for an explanation on the formula for distribution of monies and why the population of the cities were not taken into consideration.  The Mayor feels the distribution should be based on need and population. This issue could be sent to the State to decide how the County has to distribute it but there is still time to negotiate these percentages.  Mr. Stecker explained what could happen if Martins Ferry rejects this proposed funding.  He urged city officials to speak to the Commissioners to work out these issues.  Mayor Davies will call the Commissioners to see if he can get on their meeting agenda to discuss the formula used for the proposed distribution of funds.

At the Regular Meeting of Council on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, a vote will be taken to decide whether or not to accept the Commissioner’s Budget Report.  Anticipating that Council might vote to reject that Budget Report, a letter will be composed stating Council’s reasons for the rejection and be available for Council Members to sign on Wednesday Night.  The Mayor said he would then take it to the Commissioners on Thursday, May 8. 

When Mr. Sutak met with the Life Guards, the need to hire a part-time Pool Director/Recreation Director was discussed.  Unfortunately, 3% of funding was taken from the Recreation Center’s budget. Mr. Sutak was concerned about who would be in charge of getting concession items or take care of payroll for the Park District.  He asked Council to place the 3% income back into the Recreation Department’s budget so a part-time Manager can be hired to oversee day-to-day operations of the pool and Recreation Center. 

The Mayor announced that after July 1, 2025, he will be part-time and will not in the office everyday. 

East Ohio Regional Hospital is currently behind on their Water Bill again.  Mr. Stecker was asked what would be the liability for the city if the water was turned off.  Mr. Stecker recommended the city leave the water on and alert the County Auditor of the continuing delinquent monthly water bills owed to the city and place it on the hospital’s taxes.  

Motion was made by Mrs. Armstrong to adjourn and seconded by Mr. Echemann.  After an affirmative voice vote, the motion carried and the meeting was adjourned at 11:53 a.m. with a salute to the flag.

___________________________________               ___________________________________
Kay H. McFarlan, Clerk of Council                           Kristine Davis, Council President

___________________________________
Date

Martins Ferry City Council Meeting Minutes of April 16, 2025

Posted on: May 8, 2025

The Martins Ferry City Council met in Regular Session on Wednesday, April 16, 2025 at 4:30 p.m., in the Donald Myers Council Chambers.  The meeting was called to order by Council President Kristine Davis with the Pledge of Allegiance recited by those present, followed by a prayer by the Clerk.   Answering Roll Call were Bob Hunker, First Ward Council Member, Spencer Echemann, Second Ward Council Member; Suzanne Armstrong, Third Ward Council Member; Rick Rodgers, Fourth Ward Council Member; and Jim Schramm, Council at Large Member.  Absent:  Ben Neiman, Council at Large Member.  Rev. James Agnew, Council at Large Member, arrived a few minutes later.

            Minutes:  Minutes of the April 2, 2025 Council Meeting were approved as written.  

Correspondence:  There was no correspondence. 

Reports of Officers of the City:

Mayor:  Mayor Davies was unable to attend this meeting.  

Service Director:  Mr. Sutak asked Mr. Hunker to schedule a Real Estate Committee Meeting to discuss the possible sale of property, for recreational activities, in the Crawford Heights area.  The meeting was then scheduled for Monday, April 21 at 10:00 a.m. at the City Building.

Pothole patching has begun.  The City is waiting for a new valve to be delivered so the water line near Zane Highway and Catawba Street can be repaired.  Three values have already been replaced in other areas of the city. 

Mr. Sutak has been working on a Pilot Grant with Bel-O-Mar to try and get funds for repairs to Alumni Road.  He has also filed an application for funding through the EMA for issues on North Ridge and Overlook Drive.

Water Plant improvements are progressing.  The Ozone Room is being prepared for new equipment that should arrive in a couple of months.  All the wells have been cleaned.  Hopefully if there is funding left, a new well can be built. 

            Auditor:  Director Regis was not able to attend this meeting.  However, he asked 2 representatives from Cloud Advisors to speak to Council and explain the details and features of a new phone system that they are proposing to the city.  This would be a 5 year contract for phone equipment, maintenance and support that covers the City Building, EMS Building, Fire Stations and Police Department. 

            Law Director:  No report. 

            Police Department:  Chief Murphy gave a report on the Impound Lot and recent happenings in the department.  For the second year in a row, the Martins Ferry Police Department has been recognized by Lexipol for excellence in law enforcement policy management and training in 2024.  Equipment for the department’s Virtual Reality Instructor has been ordered.  (A copy of this report will be filed with these minutes).

            Fire Department:  Assistant Fire Chief Justin Smith reported that a Safety Committee Meeting was held on April 7.  Items discussed included: 1) Fire Department access to certain structures in town.  The Department will work on this issue with Mr. Sutak and Mayor Davies.  2) The Fire Department would like to change 2 items in their by-laws which Mr. Schramm will address under Committee Reports. 

Code Administrator: No report.

            Park District: No report.      

            Water Department:  No report.       

Reports of Committees of Council:   

            Finance and Audit:   Mr. Hunker reported the Committee met on April 14, 2025 with Cindi Henry who explained the new Cost Allocation Plan from the County.  Mr. Sutak would like Council, the Finance Committee and the Administration meet to discuss the pros and cons of this local government funding. 

Street: No report.

Ordinance:  Mr. Stecker will prepare an Ordinance to give the Mayor permission to engage in progressive fining for repeat offenders for such things as unsafe structures, excessive rubbish, high weeds, etc. 

            Sewer/Sidewalk:  No report.

            Safety: The Fire Department’s membership is declining.  Currently the by-laws state members of the Fire Department have to be within a 7 mile radius of Martins Ferry.  They want to extend the radius to 15 miles.  Also, the by-laws state members must be from “Belmont County”.  The Department would like to change this to “the State of Ohio”. 

            Service:  No report.

            Cemetery:  No report.

Public Relations:  No report.

            Code Administration:  No report.

Real Estate:  A meeting was scheduled for Monday, April 21 at 10:00 a.m. in Council Chambers. 

Utility: No report.

Income Tax: Mrs. Armstrong received a list of potential employees for a local heating and air conditioning business which she submitted to R.I.T.A.  The R.I.T.A. Compliance Department sent Mrs. Armstrong an email stating they have been in touch with the business and confirmed with them that they are to file delinquent withholdings starting March, 2025.  They are also requesting the W-2 statements for all the employees for the Year 2022 through 2024 so it can be verified that returns have been filed.  Mrs. Armstrong will check with the Assistant Auditor at the end of April to see if the company has filed returns. 

Citizens To Be Heard:  President Davis reminded citizens to limit their speaking to 5 minutes.  

Richard Hord, 915 Virginia Street, asked for an update on East Ohio Regional Hospital and the former Staffilino building.  There were no updates to report.  The clean-up at the former Austin Masters plant is still progressing.  Mr. Sutak said the Mayor is still considering establishing an Assistant Service Director Position.  Mr. Hord mentioned several positive comments regarding Martins Ferry were made by Governor Walz of Minnesota and were reported on National TV. 

Ordinances and Resolutions:  

            An Ordinance Providing For Assessments To Be Levied And Authorizing The Service Director To Certify Those Assessments To The Belmont County Auditor And Declaring An Emergency. 

             This Ordinance was given a first reading.  Motion was made by Mr. Hunker and seconded by Mr. Rodgers to suspend the rules.  A roll call vote was heard with Hunker, Echemann, Armstrong, Rodgers, Agnew and Schramm, voting yes.  The motion carried.  Motion was made by Mr. Schramm and seconded by Rev. Agnew to pass the Ordinance as read.  A roll call vote was heard with Schramm, Hunker, Echemann, Armstrong, Rodgers, and Agnew voting yes.  The motion carried. 

AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE CITY OF MARTINS

FERRY TO ENTER INTO A CONTRACT FOR THE ZANE

HIGHWAY 12” WATERLINE CONNECTION TO AETNA

STREET BOOSTER STATION AND DECLARING AN

EMERGENC       

Miscellaneous Business:   

Mrs. Armstrong made a motion and Mr. Echemann seconded to note that Council has received the March Financial Reports and Check Register.  After an affirmative voice vote, the motion passed.  

            Mr. Schramm made a motion to allow the Fire Department to change the requirements of their by-laws as follows: 1) change the membership radius from 7 miles to 15 miles and 2) omitting the words “Belmont County” and replacing it with “the State of Ohio”.   Motion was seconded by Mr. Rodgers.   A roll call vote was heard with Schramm, Hunker, Echemann, Armstrong, Rodgers, and Agnew voting yes.  The motion carried. 

Mr. Echemann made a motion to excuse Mr. Neimann from this meeting.  Rev. Agnew seconded the motion.  After an affirmative voice vote, the motion passed.  

Mr. Schramm made a motion to reflect Council has received reports from the Officers and Management, and to incorporate these reports into the minutes.  Motion was seconded by Mr. Echemann.   After an affirmative voice vote, the motion passed.   President Davis reminded Committee Chairpersons to submit minutes of their committee meetings. 

Mr. Echemann made a motion and Mrs. Armstrong seconded to allow the Administration to proceed with the next step toward the purchase of a new phone system.  A roll call vote was heard with Echemann, Armstrong, Rodgers, Agnew, Schramm, and Hunker voting yes.  The motion carried.  

             Mrs. Armstrong moved to adjourn at 5:26 p.m. which was seconded by Mr. Rodgers.  After an affirmative voice vote, the meeting was adjourned with a salute to the flag.

            The next meeting of the Martins Ferry Council will be on Wednesday, May 7, 2025 at 4:30 p.m. in Council Chambers. 

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Kay H. McFarlan, Clerk of Council                           Kristine Davis, Council President

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