The Martins Ferry City Council met in Regular Session on Wednesday, October 18, 2023, at 6:00 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 Suzanne Armstrong, Third Ward Council Member; Rick Rodgers, Fourth Ward Council Member; Tom Burns, James Agnew, and Jim Schramm, Council at Large Members. Absent: Bob Hunker, First Ward Council Member.
Minutes: Minutes of the October 4, 2023 Council Meeting were approved as written.
Correspondence: There was no correspondence.
Reports of Officers of the City:
Mayor: Mayor Davies ask for permission to allow Mr. Mike Reece to speak regarding the smoking of the City’s Sanitary Sewer System on October 24 and October 25. This is something that the city needs to do to move forward to become compliant with the Ohio EPA and avoid fines to the city. The purpose is to identify any leaks and any illegal connections of resident’s downspouts into the sanitary sewer system and have them removed. Mr. Reece noted the areas to be tested, explained how citizens have been notified and what residents can expect during the process.
Mayor Davies asked Council to go into Executive Session later in the meeting to discuss employee compensation.
The Town Hall Meeting has sparked some calls to the Mayor’s office. The Mayor clarified some misconceptions with the EMS and stated they are within their budget.
The Heating System for the Recreation Center still needs a breaker but is nearly complete.
The Mayor asked Council to consider an increase in the part-time police officers wage. Most towns are paying $20 per hour, whereas the city is only paying $16 per hour. Council’s approval and an ordinance would be needed for this action.
Service/Safety Director: The annual bonfire, held before the Martins Ferry/Bellaire Football Game, will be held in the same location across from the football stadium. However, it will not be as large as previous years due to safety issues around the new salt bin. The Fire Department will be present to oversee this event.
Mr. Sutak asked Council if Mr. Stecker could prepare an ordinance to authorize an emergency contractual agreement with the company that will be doing the upgrades to the filter bed at the Water Plant. This is the first step for the planned improvements to the Water Plant. Mr. Sutak also asked for permission from Council to meet with lending institution regarding options for borrowing funds for the Water Plant improvements. It is projected that $5,000,000 will be needed for all the upgradess.
Auditor: Auditor Regis distributed the Statement of Cash Position, Payroll Summary and List of New Hires. He also supplied Council Members with a Cost Allocation Plan to review. A motion to approve is needed to accept this plan. Auditor Regis also had a bill for $8,807.36 from Lexipol for policy manuals for the Police Department. These manuals were bought without a purchase order so a voice vote from Council is needed to pay the invoice.
Law Director: No report.
Police Department: No report.
Fire Department: No report.
Code Administrator: No report.
Park District: No report.
Water Department: No report.
Reports of Committees of Council:
Finance and Audit: No report.
Street: No report.
Ordinance: No report.
Sewer/Sidewalk: No report.
Code Administration: No report.
Safety: No report.
Service: No report.
Cemetery: No report.
Public Relations: No report.
Real Estate/Utility: The Committee discussed delinquent water bills. Letters will not be sent to customers with delinquent accounts. Customers will be notified on their monthly bill that their water service will be shut off.
Income Tax: Mrs. Armstrong thanked everyone that attended the Town Hall Meeting on October 16. She felt the public was well informed of the city’s financial situation and the need for the Income Tax. President Davis thanked Mrs. Armstrong for arranging the meeting and for working to get the informative newspaper article published.
Citizens To Be Heard: President Davis reminded citizens to limit their speaking to 5 minutes.
Richard Hord, 915 Virginia Street, complimented Council on the informative and effective Town Hall Meeting held regarding the Income Tax Increase. The Mayor will check with Mr. Stecker to see if Project Forward is progressing on getting certain areas in the city designated as historical. Mr. Hord asked if the city could cut the vines at 917 Virginia Street and also fill the potholes on the Street. There are no plans to do repairs to the City Building. The Mayor stated the city is concentrating on 1) financial issues and 2) safety of its citizens. The Republican Party is in the process of finding a candidate to fill the 2nd Ward Council Seat that was vacated by Mr. Shrodes.
Ordinances and Resolutions:
There was no legislation to be read.
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 Mrs. Armstrong to allow the Service/Safety Director to research funding for the repair of the filter beds at the Water Plant. Motion was seconded by Rev. Agnew. A roll call vote was heard with Armstrong, Rodgers, Burns, Agnew, and Schramm voting yes. Motion carried.
Mr. Schramm made a motion to allow Mr. Sutak to research funding mechanisms for the Water Plant in an amount up to $5,000,000. Mr. Rodgers seconded the motion. A roll call vote was heard with Schramm, Armstrong, Rodgers, Burns, and Agnew voting yes. Motion carried.
Mr. Schramm made a motion that Council authorize the Auditor to pay $8,807.36 to Lexipol for police department equipment. Motion was seconded by Mr. Burns. A roll call vote was heard with Schramm, Armstrong, Rodgers, Burns, and Agnew voting yes. Motion carried.
Mrs. Armstrong made a motion to acknowledge Council has received the Payroll Summary and the list of New Hires. Motion was seconded by Rev. Agnew. After an affirmative voice vote, the motion passed.
Mr. Rodgers made a motion to increase the part-time police officers wage to $20 per hour. Motion was seconded by Mr. Schramm. A roll call vote was heard with Rodgers, Burns, Agnew, Schramm and Armstrong voting yes. Motion carried. President Davis will ask Mr. Stecker to prepare an ordinance for this issue.
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 Rev. Agnew. After an affirmative voice vote, the motion passed.
President Davis received a call from Aspen Energy advising her of the steps Council would need to take if they are still interested in Electric Aggregation. She told the representative she would relay the message to Council but the work with the income tax and financial issues were taking presentence.
Mr. Rodger made a motion to excuse Mr. Hunker from tonight’s meeting. Mrs. Armstrong seconded the motion. After an affirmative voice vote, the motion passed.
Mrs. Armstrong made a motion to go into Executive Session under Ohio Revised Code 121.22 G1, for employee compensation. Motion was seconded by Mr. Burns. A roll call vote was heard with Armstrong, Rodgers, Burns, Agnew, and Schramm voting yes. Motion carried.
Mr. Burns made a motion and Rev. Agnew seconded to go out of Executive Session. A roll call vote was heard with Burns, Agnew, Schramm, Armstrong, and Rodgers voting yes. Motion carried.
Mr. Burns made to motion to support the Service/Safety Director’s plan in restructuring the Police Department schedules as needed pending approval by the City’s Law Director. Mr. Schramm seconded the motion. A roll call vote was heard with Burns, Agnew, Schramm, Armstrong, and Rodgers voting yes. Motion carried.
Mrs. Armstrong made a motion to reduce the K-9 Officers to 1 pending approval of the city’s Law Director. Motion was seconded by Mr. Burns. A roll call vote was heard with Armstrong, Rodgers, Burns, Agnew, and Schramm voting yes. Motion carried.
Mr. Armstrong moved to adjourn, which was seconded by Mr. Schramm. After an affirmative voice vote, the meeting was adjourned at 7:09 p.m. with a salute to the flag.
The next meeting of the Martins Ferry City Council will be on November 1, 2023 at 6:00 p.m. in Council Chambers at the City Building.
___________________________________ ___________________________________ Kay H. McFarlan, Clerk of Council Kristine Davis, Council President
The Martins Ferry City Council met in Regular Session on Wednesday, October 4, 2023, at 6:00 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, Suzanne Armstrong, Third Ward Council Member; Rick Rodgers, Fourth Ward Council Member; Tom Burns, James Agnew, and Jim Schramm, Council at Large Members. Rev. Agnew informed President Davis that he needed to leave at 7:00 p.m.
Minutes: Minutes of the September 20, 2023 Council Meeting were approved as written.
Correspondence: An email was received from the Walter Drane Company stating that 14 sets of 2023 Replacement Pages to the Martins Ferry Codified Ordinances have been sent to Joanne Regis. A 2023 Adopting Ordinance was also sent.
Reports of Officers of the City:
Mayor: Due to budgetary constraints, Mayor Davies asked Council to create an ordinance to combine the Safety and Service Director positions. It was noted that Mr. Sutak, the current Service Director, will not accept an increase in pay, at least through the end of the year.
After researching the price of potable water with other cities, it was discovered that Martins Ferry is underpriced. Beginning on November 1, the price per gallon will go from 1¢ to 2¢. This price increase is only for water that comes directly out of the water plant (bulk sales). This is not an increase to residential customers.
The Mayor stated he would like to have a Real Estate Committee Meeting to discuss selling property owned by the city. The proceeds would be placed in the General Fund. The Mayor would like these properties appraised by a professional appraiser to help set a minimum bid.
Water Plant Updates: The Skadis Water System is in place. Jeremy Shrodes explained when power was lost in Colerain, pumping capabilities were lost. The generator did not kick on so a new panel has to be ordered which will cost around $1,500. Quotes for a new air compressor are being received with the lowest one beginning at $341,000. Mr. Suto retired as Water Superintendent on September 29 and a replacement has not been appointed. A detailed maintenance plan has been prepared for the Water Plant. The trees have been removed from around the Grandview Water Tank which satisfies the EPA regulations.
Every Street that is going to be paved has been grinded and the paving has begun.
The Mayor, Service Director, Auditor Regis, Finance Chairman and President Davis will meet on October 16 to look over the budget. They will bring recommendations to Council at the next meeting.
The Mayor recognized the Volunteers in the audience that help with the After School Program at the Recreation Center. An Adult is in every room where there is a child. The Mayor asked Council to keep the Recreation Center funding the same through the end of the year. It is hoped that some of the money from the increase in the price of the bulk water can be funneled to the Recreation Program next year.
Service Director: No report.
Safety Director: No report.
Auditor: Mr. Regis reported the Police Department will end the year within budget if they keep the overtime to a minimum and follow the schedule presented to them. After things get settled with the budget this year, Mr. Regis would like to meet with the Administration and Finance Committee to formulate a plan for next year so every department will know the amount of money allocated to them. A special meeting may have to be held to pass legislation making the adjustments to the budget.
Law Director: No report.
Police Department: Chief Murphy was unable to attend this meeting but supplied every Council Member with an end of September Monthly Report.
Fire Department: No report.
Code Administrator: No report.
Park District: No report.
Water Department: No report.
Reports of Committees of Council:
Finance and Audit: Mr. Hunker said the Mayor and Auditor covered everything.
Street: Mr. Rodgers reported that 4 streets are being paved in the city and things are looking great.
Ordinance: No report.
Sewer/Sidewalk: No report.
Code Administration: No report.
Safety: Mr. Schramm will try and arrange a meeting to discuss the Vigilant Fire Station’s roof.
Service: No report.
Cemetery: No report.
Public Relations: No report.
Real Estate/Utility: Mr. Hunker will speak to Mr. Sutak about his availability to meet before setting a date for a Real Estate Committee Meeting.
Income Tax: Mrs. Armstrong informed Council that the Town Hall Meeting set for Monday, October 16 at 6:00 p.m. will be held upstairs in the gym of the Recreation Center (instead of the kitchen/meeting room downstairs as previously stated at the last Council Meeting.) President Davis requested the Income Tax and Finance Committee meet in the next couple of weeks, preferably before the Town Hall Meeting, so a clear, concise statement could be developed stating exactly where the income tax money would be spent.
Citizens To Be Heard: President Davis reminded citizens to limit their speaking to 5 minutes.
Lisa Bell, with the After School Program at the Recreation Center, passed out notebooks for Council to exam. Included was the sign-in/sign-out log and permission slips from the child’s parent/guardian for access to the program. There are around 50-60 kids every day who participate in this well-organized, structured program. Many of these youth are at-risk and would be roaming the streets if this program wasn’t available.
Henry Newhart, 402 North Zane Highway, asked the Mayor about the bushes on the lot at the corner of Ellet and 5th Street. Mr. Newhart states that groundhogs and raccoons are residing in this area. The Mayor explained there is a manpower shortage and said it will get done but could not give an exact time. Mr. Newhart asked if the city could pour asphalt in a hole in the alley next to Falbo’s Barber Shop. He states when it rains, he can’t get to the garage behind the Barber Shop because the hole fills up with water. The Mayor said the city will try and get to it in a couple of weeks.
Frances Green, 519 South Zane Highway, thanked the city for demolishing the dilapidated house across from her house. The Mayor said the Land Bank was responsible for taking that house down.
Ben Bintz, Colerain, Ohio, President of the Martins Ferry Aquatic Club, gave a report on the summer session of the Club and thanked the city administration and the pool employees for their support.
Richard Hord, 915 Virginia Street, asked if the Mayor knew of any new economic development in the city. Creative Customs, a silk screen shop, just opened a few weeks ago. There may be some expansions of existing businesses coming soon. Mr. Hord was told to contact Project Forward regarding designating properties as historic. When asked about attending certain meetings, the Mayor replied that he is a member of the JB Green Team’s Board of Directors. He or other city officials attend the other meetings mentioned by Mr. Hord as time and personnel availability permits. The Water Plant is operating smoothly at this time with one employee in charge of the inside maintenance and another employee taking care of the outside jobs.
Cynthia “Grandma” Johns, 705 Park Street, Volunteer for After School Program, asked Council to maintain the Recreation Center and continue to support the After School Program and kids that attend.
Rick Rodgers, 1307 North 7th Street, (spoke as a private citizen) has decided to run as a write-in candidate for the 4th Ward Council Seat. He stressed that his name has to be spelled correctly and the “bubble” must be filled in.
Tom Burns, Council-at-Large Member, thanked the Street Committee and the Administration for considering the request to pave Grant Avenue. Mr. Burns and Jim Hall provided Traffic Control for the job which was deeply appreciated by the Wilson Blacktop Company.
Ordinances and Resolutions:
There were no Ordinances or Resolutions to be read.
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. Schramm made a motion to change the current ordinance and combine the positions of Service Director and Safety Director with the wage suspended in 2023. Motion was seconded by Mr. Hunker. A roll call vote was heard with Schramm, Hunker, Armstrong, Rodgers, and Burns voting yes. The motion was declared passed.
Motion was made by Mr. Hunker and seconded by Mrs. Armstrong to continue paying the wage of one dispatcher from the EMS wage line. This issue will be revisited in 2024. A roll call vote was heard with Hunker, Armstrong, Rodgers, Burns, and Schramm voting yes. The motion was declared passed.
Mayor Davies told Mr. Rodgers that if someone has maintained a piece of property for over 20 years, they are eligible to legally stake a claim to the property.
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. Hunker. After an affirmative voice vote, the motion passed.
Mr. Hunker made a motion to note that Council has received and reviewed the financial reports for September, 2023. Mr. Schramm seconded the motion. 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 7:06 p.m. with a salute to the flag.
The next meeting of the Martins Ferry Council will be held on Wednesday, October 18, 2023 at 6:00 p.m. in Council Chambers.
___________________________________ ___________________________________ Kay H. McFarlan, Clerk of Council Kristine Davis, Council President
The Martins Ferry City Council met in Regular Session on Wednesday, September 20, 2023, at 6:00 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, Bruce Shrodes, Second Ward Council Member; Suzanne Armstrong, Third Ward Council Member; Rick Rodgers, Fourth Ward Council Member; Tom Burns, James Agnew, and Jim Schramm, Council at Large Members.
Minutes: Minutes of the September 7, 2023 Council Meeting were approved as written.
Correspondence: The Walter Drane Company notified the Clerk that it’s time for the next update to the Codified Ordinances. The Clerk sent the requested material.
Reports of Officers of the City:
Mayor: Mayor Davies asked for Council’s approval for an upgrade to the Skadis Water System which will cost $196,000. This upgrade is an emergency. The system had another shut down yesterday. Payments can be made in 4 phases.
The line stop and fire hydrant on Carlisle Street/10th Street needs repaired at a cost of $37,000 and a permanent stop on the 20” line will cost $39,000. If this isn’t fixed, it will cause problems in the winter.
The Mayor asked for approval to award Cast and Baker the bid for the Street Paving jobs.
According to the EPA, trees need to be removed from around the Grandview Water Tank. An estimate of $5,400 was received from LaRoche Tree Service.
There will be no bonfire on 1st Street this year because of the danger it imposes on the City’s Salt Bin and parked vehicles nearby. The High School has been notified.
Curbside Clean-Up Day will be September 25-29, 2023. Items will be picked up on the customer’s regular collection day. A list will be published noting the items that cannot be collected. It was noted that people pick through the trash for metals and then leave piles of garbage everywhere. The Mayor asked Council to make a Resolution to prohibit people from rummaging through garbage set out for collection.
The city is looking for a person or company to pick up and haul salt to the city.
The Annual Trick or Treat event will be held on Tuesday, October 31, 2023, 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.
The After-School Program at the Recreation Center is going very well with over 50 kids attending daily. Donations or food and water have been received from the community.
The Mayor explained multiple problems plaguing the city’s aging Water Plant. The cost to upgrade the entire system will be between 5 and 6 million dollars. Multiple bids are being received. Upgrades can be done in stages. A gate will also be placed across the road next to the old pump house to restrict access to that area. No one should use that road except for city employees.
Service Director: Mr. Sutak said a lot of the adjustments and upgrades to the Water Plant will save money on utilities and other items. The Capital Projects Improvement Line item will help with the repair costs.
Mr. Sutak explained the construction process and the funding mechanisms for the Turf Care Sewer Line Project. He is also working with the hospital to get joint funding through Appalachian Grants to offer more programs at the Recreation Center.
Mr. Sutak asked Council to pass the Ordinance to provide special assessments to be levied on property taxes next year.
Safety Director: No report.
Auditor: Auditor Regis distributed his report to Council. He asked Council to make a decision on the future of the Police Dispatchers so his department can determine how to fund them. The Finance Committee will discuss the Police Dispatchers at their next meeting. Also, the future of the EMS dispatchers and the funding for the Recreation Center needs to be decided. Auditor Regis asked Council for a motion to approve two Purchase Orders and another motion to approve the check register that was distributed at the last meeting.
Law Director: No report.
Police Department: Chief Murphy reported his department, along with other Police Agencies, escorted the “Eyes of Freedom” display into Barnesville where it is being displayed at Barnesville Middle School. The “Eyes of Freedom” is a traveling memorial for a group of Marines that were killed in Iraq. He encouraged Council to take time to view the exhibit. The department was also asked to assist in the escort of the remains of a WWII soldier, discovered in New Guinea, to Wilson’s Funeral Home.
The on-line auction of the sale of equipment yielded $4,230. Impound Lot revenue remains at $4,385 and preparations are being made to forfeit 6 vehicles that have been abandoned at the lot. In the future, Chief Murphy would like this revenue to be put in certain budgetary line items to assist with the purchase of new cruisers and equipment.
Fire Department: No report.
Code Administrator: No report.
Park District: No report.
Water Department: No report.
Reports of Committees of Council:
Finance and Audit: Mr. Hunker set the next Finance Committee for Monday, September 25, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. in Council Chambers.
Street: The Street Committee met on Monday, September 18 and prepared a list of additional streets that need paved. The list was given to the Mayor and Service Director. Mr. Sutak asked Auditor Regis what was the amount of paving money left. Mr. Regis said he would get that figure to Mr. Sutak tomorrow.
Ordinance: The issue of separating the metal from the trash, especially on clean-up days, was referred to the Ordinance Committee. The reporter from The Times Leader was asked to note in the Trash Clean-Up Day article that metal should be separated from the garbage.
Sewer/Sidewalk: No report.
Code Administration: No report.
Safety: Mr. Schramm reported he is waiting for information from Director Regis before scheduling a meeting.
Service: No report.
Cemetery: No report.
Public Relations: No report.
Real Estate/Utility: No report.
Income Tax: The Town Hall Meeting is scheduled for Monday, October 16 at 6:00 p.m. in the Dining Area of the Recreation Center. Mr. Stecker has agreed to preside over this meeting. Mr. Stecker, Mrs. Armstrong, and Kailey Carpino (from The Times Leader) will meet on Wednesday, September 27 to prepare a “Question and Answer” type article for the newspaper. Mrs. Armstrong asked Council Members to consider attending this meeting and to also send her questions and answers that they would like to see in the article.
Citizens To Be Heard: President Davis reminded citizens to limit their speaking to 5 minutes.
Richard Hord, 915 Virginia Street, asked why Belmont County’s financial situation was doing well but the cities and towns in the County are struggling. The Mayor and Mr. Sutak said the County has different sources of revenue than cities or towns. Mr. Sutak elaborated on this question since he served as the County Auditor for many years. Mr. Hord thanked Mr. Shrodes for his service on Council. When asked if the Town Hall Meeting could also include a “Meet the Candidates” session, many Council Members felt this should be two separate meetings. Mr. Hord noted that Don Falbo, long-time barber in the city, will celebrate his 90th birthday on Friday.
Ordinances and Resolutions:
A Resolution Authorizing Mayor John Davies To Apply For, Accept, And Enter Into A Water Pollution Control Loan Fund (WPCLF) Agreement On Behalf Of The City Of Martins Ferry For Planning, Design And/Or Construction Of Wastewater Facilities; And Designating A Dedicated Repayment Source For The Loan.
This Resolution was given a first reading. Motion was made by Mr. Rodgers to suspend the rules. Motion was seconded by Mr. Schramm. A roll call vote was heard with Rodgers, Burns, Agnew, Schramm, Hunker, Shrodes, and Armstrong voting yes. The motion carried. Motion was made by Mr. Schramm to pass the Resolution as read. Mr. Burns seconded the motion. A roll call vote was heard with Schramm, Hunker, Shrodes, Armstrong, Rodgers, Burns, and Agnew voting yes. The motion carried and the Resolution was declared passed
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 to suspend the rules. Motion was seconded by Mr. Rodgers. A roll call vote was heard with Hunker, Shrodes, Armstrong, Rodgers, Burns, Agnew and Schramm voting yes. The motion carried. Motion was made by Mr. Rodgers to pass the Ordinance as read. Mr. Burns seconded the motion. A roll call vote was heard with Rodgers, Burns, Agnew, Schramm, Hunker, Shrodes, and Armstrong voting yes. The motion carried and the Ordinance was declared passed.
A Resolution Accepting The Amounts And Rates As Determined By The Budget Commission And Authorizing The Necessary Tax Levies And Certifying Them To The County Auditor.
This Resolution was given a first reading. Motion was made by Mr. Hunker to suspend the rules. Motion was seconded by Mr. Rodgers. A roll call vote was heard with Hunker, Shrodes, Armstrong, Rodgers, Burns, Agnew and Schramm voting yes. The motion carried. Motion was made by Mr. Burns to pass the Resolution as read. Mr. Schramm seconded the motion. A roll call vote was heard with Burns, Agnew, Schramm, Hunker, Shrodes, Armstrong, and Rodgers voting yes. The motion carried and the Resolution 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. Burns made a motion to authorize replacement of the Skadis System at a cost of $196,000 to be paid in four payments from the Capital Improvement Line 107. Motion was seconded by Mr. Hunker. A roll call vote was heard with Burns, Agnew, Schramm, Hunker, Shrodes, Armstrong, and Rodgers voting yes. The motion carried
Mr. Schramm made a motion to allow the Mayor to award the paving bid to the Cast and Baker Corporation. Motion was seconded by Rev. Agnew. A roll call vote was heard with Schramm, Hunker, Shrodes, Armstrong, Rodgers, Burns, and Agnew voting yes. The motion was declared passed.
Mr. Burns made a motion to approve the payment of two invoices, one from AirTech for $17,884 and one for Water Ways of Southwest Pennsylvania for $4,019. Motion was seconded by Mrs. Armstrong. A roll call vote was heard with Burns, Agnew, Schramm, Hunker, Shrodes, Armstrong, and Rodgers voting yes. The motion carried
Mr. Stecker will prepare an Ordinance for the purchase of a valve exerciser. Auditor Regis was asked to send Mr. Stecker the details.
Mrs. Armstrong made a motion and Mr. Rodgers seconded to note that Council has received and accepted the Payroll Summary, Cash Position Statement and the New Hire Summary. 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 Rev. Agnew. After an affirmative voice vote, the motion passed.
Mr. Hunker motioned and Mr. Burns seconded to note that at the September 6 Meeting, Council received and reviewed the Check Register for the August, 2023 bills. After an affirmative voice vote, the motion passed.
Mr. Shrodes received thanks and appreciation for his service on Council from President Davis and Mayor Davies. He told Council it was a pleasure working with everyone. Mr. Shrodes received a standing ovation.
Mrs. Armstrong moved to adjourn, which was seconded by Mr. Shrodes. After an affirmative voice vote, the meeting was adjourned at 7:10 p.m. with a salute to the flag.
The next Martins Ferry Council Meeting will be held on Wednesday, October 4, 2023 at 6:00 p.m. at the City Building.
___________________________________ ___________________________________ Kay H. McFarlan, Clerk of Council Kristine Davis, Council President
The Martins Ferry City Council met in Regular Session on Thursday, September 7, 2023, at 6:00 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, Suzanne Armstrong, Third Ward Council Member; Rick Rodgers, Fourth Ward Council Member; Tom Burns, James Agnew, and Jim Schramm, Council at Large Members. Excused: Bruce Shrodes, Second Ward Council Member.
Minutes: Minutes of the August 16, 2023 Council Meeting were approved as written.
Correspondence: Correspondence was received from The Ohio Department of Commerce, Division of Liquor Control regarding an application for a liquor permit for the Bell Store 1074 located at 507 Crawford Street, Martins Ferry. After consulting with Police Chief Murphy, who said the Department had no issues with the application, the form was signed by the Clerk and returned to the Division of Liquor Control.
A letter from Mr. Bruce Shrodes was read announcing his resignation from Council, effective September 30, 2023. The Republican Committee will need to fill this seat within 45 days.
Reports of Officers of the City:
Mayor: Street paving project bids have been received and the Cast and Baker Company was the lowest bidder at a cost of almost $158,000, which was lower than expected. The engineers have approved the plan and the company assured the Mayor that the project would be finished by the end of the year. Since there is still money available for paving, the Mayor ask Council to refer any additional streets they would like to see paved to the Street Committee.
Water Superintendent Bill Suto has decided to retire, effective September 23, 2023.
The Mayor and Mr. Sutak met with Water Plant experts and engineers regarding updates to the Water Plant. It was estimated the Plant needs $6,000,000 in repairs. Mayor Davies explained the recommendations and cost for the planned upgrades which need to be done in phases.
A new hydraulic saw has been purchased to cut pipe which will save time and money when there is a water break. The Water Department is also asking for Council’s permission to purchase a Valve Exerciser (valve turning machine) at a cost of $90,645.05. The purchase would be paid through the Capital Projects Fund.
Service Director: Mr. Sutak has received an estimate of $90,645.05 for the Valve Exerciser. The EPA mandates that this machine be used to turn every valve on and off once a year so they are clear and can be opened when needed. Mr. Sutak will apply for an Ohio Public Works funding grant to help with the cost of the Valve Exerciser.
Repairs to the Recreation Center’s cooling system are completed. Maintenance work is now needed on the heat and air exchanger at the Center which will cost $3,944.
Mr. Sutak has been working with a company to possibly install Solar Panels on several buildings in the city to help save on utility costs.
There is a total of $42,269.65 in County Permissive Tax Money. This money can only be used for dedicated street paving.
Safety Director: Director Regis thanked everyone in the community for their support of the Betty Zane Festival sponsored by the Fire Department. The EMS Department is now providing emergency and non-emergency transport service for the Shadyside Care Center. Last fall, a family who had a grievance about an EMS call, filed a complaint with the State Division of EMS Board. Today, the Board notified Martins Ferry EMS that there was no significant reason found to proceed with the investigation. Mrs. Armstrong asked about the Auction of city vehicles. Director Regis said they decided to change the way the sale would be handled and he still needs time to get things ready. The Mayor said the K-9 Unit, with the damaged motor, has been put on a 14-day on-line auction site and has gotten a few bids.
Auditor: Auditor Regis supplied every Council Member with a written report. The state auditors have advised the city to close the books on November 22, 2023. All Purchase Orders that are 60 days or older will be canceled. The Auditors are not in favor of open purchase orders where parts can be purchased and then later a Purchase order is submitted. It is understandable that the water department needs something like this in place because many times they need parts quickly.
Law Director: No report.
Police Department: Officer Vince West gave the end of August Police Department report. Dr. Yurko, of KEY Animal Hospital in Wheeling, supplied free veterinary services to the city’s two K-9 officers.
Officer West reported that he was elected the F.O.P. President. He reported that morale is low. Officers have been working hard but are now discouraged because they must take compensation time instead of getting overtime pay. In order to better understand the situation, the Mayor and Service Director took 20 minutes to explain the financial and budget constraints facing the city. The Mayor will schedule a meeting between the administration and the F.O.P. sometime next week.
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 Finance Committee met on August 23 and will meet again on Monday, September 11 at 10:00 a.m. in Council Chambers. Minutes of the August 23 Finance Meeting will be filed with these minutes. The Mayor asked the Finance Committee to address Franchise Fees, which haven’t been increased for a long time.
Street: Mr. Rodgers scheduled a Street Committee Meeting on September 18, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. to discuss additional roads to be paved.
Ordinance: No report.
Sewer/Sidewalk: No report.
Code Administration: No report.
Safety: Director Regis has asked that a meeting be scheduled to discuss a few items concerning the Fire Department.
Service: No report.
Cemetery: Mr. Burns did some trimming of weeds at the cemetery. He also supplied water to the workers who are doing a good job keeping the cemetery looking great.
Public Relations: No report.
Real Estate/Utility: Mr. Hunker scheduled a Utility Meeting for Monday, October 16, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. in Council Chambers.
Income Tax: The committee met on Monday, August 21 (minutes of this meeting will be filed with the minutes of this Council Meeting). Mrs. Armstrong asked Council for their thoughts on having a Town Hall Meeting to discuss the Income Tax Levy. Tuesday, October 17 was suggested as a date for the Town Hall Meeting. The Town Hall Meeting date will be finalized at the next Council Meeting.
Citizens To Be Heard: President Davis reminded citizens to limit their speaking to 5 minutes.
Richard Hord, 915 Virginia Street, ask about the future project plans for Columbia Gas. President Davis spoke to a Columbia Gas worker who said there are two stages for the line replacement projects and they may not be back to Martins Ferry until next year. Mayor Davies wants to have a meeting with Columbia Gas officials to discuss the condition of the roads after a job is completed. He said the general rule of construction is to leave the road “as good or better” than what they found it. There are no updates regarding the former Staffilino building. The Mayor emphasized that every new employee hired and every new program started by East Ohio Regional Hospital benefits the city. He also shared the difficulties in enforcing codes on dilapidated properties. Mr. Hord wished Mr. Suto and Mr. Shrodes a happy retirement!
Tom Burns, Council-at-Large Member, reported that on August 21 he accompanied two Martins Ferry Police Officers on their 3-11 p.m. shift. Both Officers were professional in their investigation that led to an arrest that evening. Mr. Burns said the city is blessed to have such great law enforcement.
Ordinances and Resolutions:
An Ordinance Accepting The Road Described On Exhibit A As A Dedicated Municipal Public Street. This Ordinance was given a third reading. Mrs. Armstrong made a motion to postpone this motion indefinitely, pending clarification. Motion was seconded by Mr. Rodgers. A roll call vote was heard with Armstrong, Rodgers, Burns, Agnew, Schramm, and Hunker 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:
Mr. Schramm made a motion to appropriate $3,944 from the Permanent Improvement Fund to be used for repairs to the heat exchanger at the Recreation Center. Motion was seconded by Rev. Agnew. A roll call vote was heard with Schramm, Hunker, Armstrong, Rodgers, Burns and Agnew voting yes. The motion carried.
Mr. Hunker made a motion and Mrs. Armstrong seconded to excuse Mr. Shrodes from tonight’s meeting. After an affirmative voice vote, the motion passed.
Mr. Burns made a motion to appropriate $90,645 from the Capital Projects Fund 107 to purchase a Valve Turning Machine for the Water Department. Motion was seconded by Schramm. A roll call vote was heard with Burns, Agnew, Schramm, Hunker, Armstrong and Rodgers voting yes. The motion carried. Mr. Stecker will be contacted to prepare an Ordinance for this purchase.
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. Burns. After an affirmative voice vote, the motion passed.
Auditor Regis reminded Council of the reception for the First Co-Starters Cohort Class sponsored by Project Forward. The reception will take place at Kendall Behavioral Solutions on September 14, 2023 at 6:00 p.m.
Mrs. Armstrong moved to adjourn, which was seconded by Mr. Burns. After an affirmative voice vote, the meeting was adjourned at 7:25 p.m. with a salute to the flag.
The next meeting of the Martins Ferry City Council will be held on Wednesday, September 20, 2023 at 6:00 p.m. at the City Building.
___________________________________ ___________________________________ Kay H. McFarlan, Clerk of Council Kristine Davis, Council President
Clean up week will be held curb side on your normal trash day this week (September 25 – September 29) Mattresses/boxsprings will need wrapped in plastic and will be an extra charge added to your utility bill. We can not accept tires, electronics, wood/building materials, hazardous materials and paint. Please place items out with your normal trash.
The above link is our ordinance 521.08 for littering and deposit of garbage, rubbish, junk, etc. Starting today, you will be cited for this ordinance and given a court date. If not cleaned up and taken care of after court date, the city will clean it up and you will be billed for extra sanitation on your water bill. If this is not paid within 60 days it will be put on your property taxes.
The Martins Ferry City Council met in Regular Session on Wednesday, August 16, 2023, at 6:00 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, Bruce Shrodes, Second Ward Council Member; Suzanne Armstrong, Third Ward Council Member; Rick Rodgers, Fourth Ward Council Member; Tom Burns, James Agnew, and Jim Schramm, Council at Large Members.
Minutes: Minutes of the August 2, 2023 Council Meeting were approved as written.
Correspondence: There was no correspondence.
Reports of Officers of the City:
Mayor: Mayor Davies began his report by emphatically disagreeing with recommendations in Auditor Regis’s report to Council and expressed his reasons to Council. He would like to see a report from the Auditor’s office on a breakdown of where the income tax money, the police levy and the EMS levy is being spent. Gas and Oil Rights amount to $17,000 and future contracts will be extended one year at time. President Davis informed Council that the Auditor can only recommend changes; he does not have the power to tell Council how to set the budget.
The Tree of Life Church is prepared to pay $5,000 for the former Curley Property and Mr. Stecker will prepare the deed. This money will be placed in the General Fund.
There were two major water breaks this week, one on Center Street and one on First Street. The city went dry on Sunday. If there had been a fire, it could have jeopardized the hospital, businesses, homes and lives of our citizens. The Mayor explained what caused the breaks and the steps that were taken to fix them. He praised the dedication of the water department employees for their determination to restore water to the citizens. Water Department employees suggested, among other things, isolating the city into four quadrants. This way, any quadrant, at any time, could be shut off instead of closing down the whole city. The administration is looking into purchasing a hydraulic pipe cutter, which would be safer for the employees and would save time cutting the pipe.
Mayor Davies and Mr. Sutak attended an OMEGA Meeting to learn about grants, some of which will not be funded. The Mayor asked Council and the citizens to write letters/make phone calls to their local and state representatives describing the severity of the water situation in the city and plead for funding to get a dedicated line to the hospital/business district and improvements to the Water Plant. The Mayor elaborated on upgrades needed at the Water Plant. Modernizations to the plant will amounts to millions of dollars.
City Employee Appreciation Day will be on Friday, August 18 at the Recreation Center. It will include a cookout and swimming for employees and their families.
Two employees are keeping the cemetery well maintained. Trees were taken down and removed from Colerain Pike. Pothole patching is almost complete.
The person who inquired about purchasing the sandstone from the city for $10,000 has withdrawn the offer.
Service Director: Mr. Sutak spoke with several Representatives regarding funding for a dedicated water line to the hospital. Approximate cost of the line is $1,000,000. It is believed the city has been approved for $644,000. Additional funding is being investigated. Mr. Sutak would like every Council Member to write a letter to their Local, State and Federal Representatives and stress there is an immediate need for upgrades on our water system. He explained the 5 phases of improvements needed for the Water Plant and water lines.
Next week, workers will begin re-boxing a sewer in the alley behind Grant Street and 7th Street. A new catch basin will also be installed.
The application for the Beretta Drive Guardrail Project is ready to be submitted if Council passes the Resolution tonight. Mr. Sutak explained the grant money, the point system and the city’s share of the expense of this project.
Mr. Sutak explained the storm sewer situation on Overlook Drive where he believes there is mine subsidence. He will look for funding to help shore up this road. The Mayor expounded on the severity of this situation since water and gas lines may be affected as well as the homes on the street below Overlook Drive. Council discussed the Overlook Drive situation for 16 minutes. Mr. Sutak will email Council the names and addresses of the Representatives that citizens can write or call about the infrastructure problems the city is facing. He will also prepare a description of the problems that need addressed. The Mayor will post on Social Media some of the challenges the city is facing and ask citizens to contact their local, state and federal representatives to ask for assistance.
Mr. Shrodes asked if anything could be done about water running down South Ridge Drive. The Mayor has some ideas on how to elevate the situation in this area and said they are going to look at it tomorrow.
Safety Director: No report.
Law Director: No report.
Police Department: Chief Murphy reported his department assisted U.S. Marshalls in apprehending an attempted murder suspect. K-9 Patch and his handler assisted in arresting a man, involved in an assault, who had barricaded himself in a closet. Two Police Officers have completed phase 2 of the Crisis Intervention Training. Chief Murphy applied and has received a $7,761.18 grant from the Bureau of Workers Compensation for 8 new body armor vests. Total cost of the body armor is $10,348.24. The grant is a 25% matching grant. The Chief has applied for a $1,000 PEP Grant to help with the 25% match of $2,587.06. He also applied and received a $300 grant from Harbor Freight for the purchase of bolt cutters and a shop vacuum. Contract talks are being held with a body camera system company to negotiate another 5 year contract. A savings of $4,000 is expected. An officer has just been re-certified as a Taser Instructor. The Mayor congratulated Chief Murphy and his officers on the apprehension of the suspects. President Davis commended Chief Murphy on applying and receiving the body armor grant and the Harbor Freight Grant as well as applying for the additional PEP grant.
Auditor: Auditor Regis was not at the meeting but supplied Council Members with a report and financial statements. He also asked Council to approve an invoice from Enterprise for $9,852.20 for the Fire Department. This is a normal bill for the Fire Department but the invoice was submitted before the Purchase Order was signed.
Fire Department: No report.
Code Administrator: No report.
Park District: No report.
Water Department: No report.
Reports of Committees of Council:
Finance and Audit: No report.
Street: No report.
Ordinance: The Ordinance Meeting has been re-scheduled for Monday, August 21, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. in Council Chambers.
Sewer/Sidewalk: No report.
Code Administration: No report.
Safety: No report.
Service: No report.
Cemetery: Mr. Burns acknowledged the work Mr. Larry Riser who voluntarily does a lot of weeding at the Betty Zane Cemetery and around town.
Public Relations: No report.
Real Estate/Utility: No report.
Income Tax: There will be an Income Tax Meeting on Monday, August 21 at 10:00 a.m. which coincides with the Ordinance Meeting.
Citizens To Be Heard: President Davis reminded citizens to limit their speaking to 5 minutes.
Richard Hord, 915 Virginia Street, thanked the city workers who participated in the restoration of water to residents during the breaks on Sunday. The Mayor said the boil order is now expired. Regarding Martins Ferry’s infrastructure, the Mayor said when there are 5-6 breaks in one area, those lines are targeted for replacement. Martins Ferry is the oldest city in Ohio, so it has the oldest infrastructure. The Fire Department was thanked for the successful Betty Zane Festival, which provided great food, great vendors, great entertainment and great fireworks for the citizens. There is no timetable for the completion of the Columbia gas line replacement project. At this time, the Mayor did not think the city could afford offering support to Wheeling Health Right.
Ordinances and Resolutions:
An Ordinance Accepting The Road Described On Exhibit A As A Dedicated Municipal Public Street. This Ordinance was given a second reading. This Ordinance will go to a third reading.
A Resolution Authorizing The City Of Martins Ferry To Prepare And Submit An Application To Participate In The Ohio Public Works Commission State Capital Improvement And/Or Local Transportation Improvement Program(s) And To Execute Contracts As Required.
This Resolution was given a first reading. Motion was made by Mr. Rodgers to suspend the rules. Motion was seconded by Mr. Burns. A roll call vote was heard with Rodgers, Burns, Schramm, Agnew, Hunker, Shrodes, and Armstrong voting yes. Motion was made by Mr. Burns to pass the Resolution as read. Motion was seconded by Mr. Schramm. A roll call vote was heard with Burns, Agnew, Schramm, Hunker, Shrodes, Armstrong and Rodgers voting yes. The Resolution 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. Shrodes made a motion to approve payment of an invoice for the Fire Department to Enterprise in the amount of $9,852.20. Motion was seconded by Mr. Hunker. Note: The Fire Department does have the money to make this payment. A roll call vote was heard with Shrodes, Armstrong, Rodgers, Burns, Agnew, Schramm, and Hunker voting yes. The motion was declared passed.
Motion was made by Mr. Hunker and seconded by Rev. Agnew that Council approve the position of cash statement and payroll summary financials. A roll call vote was heard with Hunker, Shrodes, Armstrong, Rodgers, Burns, Agnew and Schramm voting yes. The motion was declared 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. Hunker. After an affirmative voice vote, the motion passed.
Mayor Davies informed Council that he wants to recognize two Eagle Scouts. One Scout built the sandstone wall at Riverview Cemetery and another Scout revitalized the Floral Valley Park. Proclamations will be forthcoming to honor these two young men.
The city has begun receiving bids for the proposed street paving project. It has been almost 3 years since the Gas Company replaced lines on Zane Highway, leaving the street with several humps and bumps. The city administration has contacted the contractor several times to express dissatisfaction with the job but the repairs have not been done. Mayor Davies asked Council for permission to get bids on paving South Zane Highway. Mr. Burns made a motion to allow the Mayor and Service Director to take bids for paving of South Zane Highway from the Tokyo Hibachi Restaurant, 1220 South Zane Highway (old Dairy Queen) to Aetna Street. Motion was seconded by Mr. Schramm. A roll call vote was heard with Burns, Agnew, Schramm, Hunker, Shrodes, Armstrong and Rodgers voting yes. Motion carried.
Mayor Davies asked Rev. Agnew, who is also a School Board Member, to let the school district know that the city will be painting white lines up each side of the road off of St. Rt. 647 leading to the school.
Mrs. Armstrong moved to adjourn, which was seconded by Rev. Agnew. After an affirmative voice vote, the meeting was adjourned at 7:26 p.m. with a salute to the flag.
The next meeting of the Martins Ferry Council will be on Wednesday, September 6, 2023 at 6:00 p.m. in Council Chambers at the City Building.
___________________________________ ___________________________________ Kay H. McFarlan, Clerk of Council Kristine Davis, Council President
