The Martins Ferry City Council met in Regular Session on Wednesday, November 2, 2022, 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, 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, Jim Schramm and Jack Regis, Council at Large Members.
Minutes: Minutes of the October 19, 2022 Regular Council Meeting were approved as written.
Correspondence: There was no correspondence.
Reports of Officers of the City:
Mayor: The Veteran’s Monument, at the Riverview Cemetery, will be dedicated on November 13, 2022 at 2:00 p.m.. In case of inclement weather, the ceremony will be held at the American Legion. Refreshments will follow at the Legion.
The Mayor met with the Street Committee and received permission to pave Pearl Street (from Jefferson Street to Buckeye Street) and Seabrights Lane (from Zane Highway to the end of the Street). Paving on Pearl Street will begin on November 7 and will probably take the whole week to finish. Other bids were received for Adams Street and Carlisle Street but the Mayor did not think there would be enough time to pave these streets since the weather will be getting colder.
Funding is being sought from the Public Works Commission for paving and new guardrails on Beretta Drive.
The city annexed-in the School Road and Alumni Road but does not own these roads. It is unclear who is responsible for maintenance of these roads, especially during the winter months. Mr. Regis made a motion and Mr. Burns seconded to maintain the school roads (snow, ice removal, pothole repair) pending establishment of ownership. A meeting will be scheduled between the city administration and the school administration to discuss ownership and responsibility of maintenance of these roads. A roll call vote was heard with Regis, Hunker, Shrodes, Armstrong, Rodgers, Burns and Schramm voting yes. The motion carried.
Service Director: Mr. Sutak presented Council with a breakdown of the project requests to be paid from the American Rescue Fund Money. The Administration agreed to modify this list by reducing the Forced Main TurfCare Sewer Project by $6,000 and reducing the Waterline Main to the Hospital Project by $6,000. This will allow for the purchase of a surround sound system for Council Chambers (inserted as item #10 on the list) which will cost close to $12,000.
Mr. Sutak explained the Preliminary Consent Legislation which is presented in an ordinance to be read later in the meeting. Some of the guardrail along SR 647 needs replaced and the city is unable to fund this project. All guardrail work will be funded by the local Metropolitan Planning Organization (BHJ).
Mr. Sutak met with a representative from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) and toured some of the areas that have had mine subsidence. More research will be done and hopefully an answer to the slippage problem can be found.
Council was asked to consider imposing a charge (Road Use Maintenance Agreements) to companies that have large trucks and vehicles using SR 647. This funding could be used for maintenance of that road.
The Auditor’s Office currently has a Petty Cash Fund of $100. Council was asked to make a motion to increase this fund to $200.
The city is ready for the winter weather. Mr. Sutak asked Council to approve the purchase of a Salt Storage Building, listed on the American Rescue Projects, so the road salt will be protected from the elements and work to its fullest potential.
Safety Director: The Christmas Parade will be held on Friday, November 25, 2022, staring at 6:30 p.m. A motion will be needed to use the city streets.
Council and the Administration were invited to the Annual Fire Department Organizational Meeting which will be held on December 10 at 7:30 p.m. at the Ladder Station.
Director Regis thanked Council for the two new Transport Vehicles.
Auditor: No report.
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: The Committee met on October 26, 2022. Discussion was held regarding employee paid time off “cash-outs” and the effect on the General Fund. The list of items to be funded through the American Rescue Money, was reviewed and the Committee recommends moving forward with the projects. Minutes of this meeting were submitted to the clerk and will be filed with these Council Minutes.
Street: A meeting was held regarding the extra streets to be paved which was mentioned in the Mayor’s report.
Ordinance: No report.
Sewer/Sidewalk: No report.
Code Administration: No report.
Safety: A meeting, with the Ray Zeakes Family, was held at the EMS Building on October 26 regarding a complaint of operation procedures of the EMS transport service. It was determined that protocols were followed. Mr. Regis was proud of the way EMS Management supported the workers. Minutes of this meeting were submitted to the clerk and will be filed with these Council Minutes.
Service: No report.
Cemetery: No report.
Public Relations: No report.
Real Estate: No report.
Utility: No report.
Income Tax: No report.
Citizens To Be Heard:
Larry Deaton, 1102 North 9th Street, School Bus Operator, praised the city for the upkeep of Riverview Cemetery. He also noted that over 30 bulbs in the decorative lamps around town are burned out and some of the globes are loose. The Mayor said he would try and address this issue tomorrow. Mr. Shrodes asked Mr. Sutak to check on the exposed wiring on the pole by Subway.
Richard Hord, 915 Virginia Street, thanked the Police Force and Fire Department for the excellent job of patrolling the streets on Saturday, October 29 during Trick or Treat. The Mayor said he still plans to honor Ohio Valley Printing for operating in the city for 100 years. The procedure to replace Auditor Randall, who is retiring on December 31, was explained to Mr. Hord. The Mayor told Mr. Hord that numerous calls have been made to Bel-O-Mar regarding the demolition of the Curly Property. Mr. Sutak will send an email to Bel-O-Mar inviting them to attend a Council Meeting to explain why the Curly Property hasn’t been taken down. Only one house has been torn down by the Land Bank this year in the city.
Ordinances and Resolutions:
An Ordinance To Revise The Codified Ordinances By Adopting Current Replacement Pages, and Declaring An Emergency.
This Ordinance was given a second reading. Motion was made by Mr. Regis to suspend the rules. Motion was seconded by Mr. Schramm. A roll call vote was heard with Regis, Hunker, Shrodes, Armstrong, Rodgers, Burns and Schramm voting yes. The motion carried. Motion was made by Mr. Hunker to pass the Ordinance as read. Motion was seconded by Rodgers. A roll call vote was heard with Hunker, Shrodes, Armstrong, Rodgers, Burns, Schramm and Regis voting yes. The motion carried and the Ordinance was declared passed.
An Ordinance Providing For Assessments To Be Levied and Authorizing The Service Director to Certify Those Assessment 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. Shrodes. A roll call vote was heard with Hunker, Shrodes, Armstrong, Rodgers, Burns, Schramm and Regis voting yes. The motion carried. Motion was made by Mr. Schramm to pass the Ordinance as read. Motion was seconded by Regis. A roll call vote was heard with Schramm, Regis, Hunker, Shrodes, Armstrong, Rodgers and Burns voting yes. The motion carried and the Ordinance was declared passed.
Motion was made by Mr. Regis to suspend the 72 Hour Rule. Motion was seconded by Mr. Burns. A roll call vote was heard with Regis, Hunker, Shrodes, Armstrong, Rodgers, Burns and Schramm voting yes. The motion carried.
Preliminary Consent Legislation, being the removal and replacement of old guardrail along State Route 647with new guardrail and posts from SLM 0.62 to SLM 1.61 within the city of Martins Ferry.
This Ordinance was given a first reading. Motion was made by Mr. Shrodes to suspend the rules. Motion was seconded by Mr. Schramm. A roll call vote was heard with Shrodes, Armstrong, Rodgers, Burns, Schramm, Regis and Hunker voting yes. The motion carried. Motion was made by Mr. Hunker to pass the Ordinance as read. Motion was seconded by Regis. A roll call vote was heard with Hunker, Shrodes, Armstrong, Rodgers, Burns, Schramm and Regis voting yes. The motion carried and the Preliminary Consent Legislation 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. Regis made a motion to allow the Fire Department to use city streets for the Christmas Parade on November 25. Motion was seconded by Mr. Rodgers. A roll call vote was heard with Regis, Hunker, Shrodes, Armstrong, Rodgers, Burns and Schramm voting yes. The motion carried.
Mr. Regis made a motion to increase the petty cash in the Auditor’s Office from $100 to $200. Mr. Schramm seconded the motion. A roll call vote was heard with Regis, Hunker, Shrodes, Armstrong, Rodgers, Burns and Schramm voting yes. The motion carried.
Mr. Regis 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. Burns made a motion to approve the attached American Rescue Fund uses, items 1 – 10, to include $12,000 for the audio system by reducing items 1 and 2 by $6,000 each. Mr. Schramm seconded the motion. A roll call vote was heard with Burns, Schramm, Regis, Hunker, Shrodes, Armstrong, and Rodgers voting yes. The motion was declared passed.
The Mayor would like to proceed to demolish the house on the “S” curve of Broadway. The owner was served a citation a couple of months ago and has been written up for the trash in the yard.
There has been no progress on getting South Zane Highway repaved by the contractor who did the Bridgeport water project connections. Mr. Burns made a motion and Mr. Regis seconded to authorize the Mayor to proceed with the repaving of South Zane Highway with money from the water line project. A roll call vote was heard with Burns, Schramm, Regis, Hunker, Shrodes, Armstrong, and Rodgers voting yes. The motion was declared passed.
The Mayor said Pearl Street and Seabrights Lane are scheduled to be paved and maybe later money will be available for a bigger project, such as Grant Avenue.
The Mayor will send a letter to the asphalt company, located in the former city garage, regarding the area where they should and should not park their trucks.
Mr. Regis reported several comments from residents on the courteous treatment from the city workers during Curbside Trash Clean-Up Week.
President Davis told Council if they would like to change their committee membership, please submit their request to her before the next meeting. She also reminded Council Members that they have 1 more year to complete their Sunshine Law Training. It must be completed by the end of their term.
Chris Baker has offered to meet and answer any questions Council might have regarding the new audio system for Council Chambers.
Mrs. Armstrong moved to adjourn, which was seconded by Mr. Hunker. After an affirmative voice vote, the motion carried and the meeting was adjourned at 6:57 p.m. with a salute to the flag.
The next regular meeting of the Martins Ferry Council will be held on Wednesday, November 16, 2022, at 6:00 p.m. at the Donald Myers Council Chambers.
___________________________________ ___________________________________ Kay H. McFarlan, Clerk of Council Kristine Davis, Council President
The Martins Ferry City Council met for a Special Meeting on Sunday, October 30, 2022, at 12:30 p.m., at the Donald Myers Council Chambers. This meeting was called to discuss paving additional streets this year beyond those already approved.
Council President Kristine Davis called the meeting to order and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited by those present, 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, Jim Schramm and Jack Regis, Council at Large Members. Bruce Shrodes, Second Ward Council Member, notified President Davis that he was unable to attend this meeting.
Miscellaneous Business
It was reported that Columbia Gas will be installing a new gas line next year on the 300 and 400 Blocks of North 7th Street. Therefore, these streets were dismissed from the paving proposal.
Mr. Regis made a motion and Mr. Schramm seconded to allow the Mayor to proceed with paving of Pearl Street (from Jefferson Street to Buckeye Street) and Seabrights Lane (from Zane Highway to the end of the Street), Indiana Street, sections of Zane Highway, and a short section of Carlisle Street. No Parking Signs will be posted on the streets to be paved and notices will be placed on residents doors alerting them not to park on the street during paving hours. A roll call vote was heard with Regis, Hunker, Armstrong, Rodgers, Burns and Schramm voting yes. The motion was declared passed.
Mr. Hunker made a motion to excuse Mr. Shrodes from tonight’s meeting. Mr. Rodgers seconded the motion. After an affirmative voice vote, the motion passed.
Mr. Regis moved to adjourn, which was seconded by Mrs. Armstrong. After an affirmative voice vote, the meeting was adjourned at 12:46 p.m. with a salute to the flag.
The next regularly scheduled meeting of the Martins Ferry City Council will be held on Wednesday, November 2, 2022 at 6:00 in Council Chambers at the City Building.
___________________________________ ___________________________________ Kay H. McFarlan, Clerk of Council Kristine Davis, Council President
The City of Martins Ferry Offices and Sanitation will be closed on Thursday the 24th and Friday the 25th in observance of the Holiday. Our Sanitation department will pick up trash for Thursday’s route on Tuesday and Friday’s route on Thursday to their best ability. Please have your trash out the night before.
The City of Martins Ferry will be closed in observance of Veteran’s Day on Friday November 11, 2022. The offices will be opened back up on Monday November 14, 2022. The Sanitation pick up for Friday routes will be done on Thursday November 10. Please have your trash out on Wednesday night to be sure they do not miss your stop.
The Martins Ferry City Council met in Regular Session on Wednesday, October 19, 2022, 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, 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; Tom Burns and Jim Schramm, Council at Large Members. Jack Regis, Council at Large Member, notified President Davis at the October 5, 2022 Council Meeting that he was unable to attend this meeting. Also absent was Rick Rodgers, Fourth Ward Council Member.
Minutes: Minutes of the October 5, 2022 Regular Council Meeting were approved as written.
Correspondence: There was no correspondence.
President Davis welcomed Boy Scout Troop #109 from Bridgeport, Ohio to the Council Meeting.
Reports of Officers of the City:
Mayor: The city has purchased an additional 60 tons of road salt. It will be stored in a metal dome building which costs about $28,000. Details could not be worked out to store the salt permanently in the former Beans Foundry Building.
A new water line is being run under Route 7 and will come up to the hospital. This line will feed the entire business district and service 2/3 of the city with water.
The Mayor asked Council to consider 2 items the city needs – a new excavator (Price: $60,750) and a new tractor for the cemetery (Price is approximately $17,000).
Paving on 6th Street, 8th Street, 9th Street, Hillendale and Crawford Heights is finished and Floral Valley is currently being prepared for paving.
The Cemetery Workforce has been reduced by 2 seasonal employees.
Pothole patching and grass cutting on city maintained lots will continue next week in lieu of the pending warmer weather.
The Mayor said the Fall Fest organized by the Lions Club was a success. He also thanked Lisa Bell for feeding the football players yesterday in the Park.
The Mayor asked for an Executive Session at the end of the meeting to discuss Personnel.
Service Director: New lights were installed in the Street Department Garage to help save on utility costs. As weather permits, new lines will be painted on the roads that have recently been paved.
Mr. Sutak reported that a culvert has been installed near the Sunset Heights Water Tower. This will redirect the water runoff so the road won’t wash away.
Another load of road salt has been received but grit is still needed. Maintenance checks will be conducted on snow equipment and as the threat of bad weather approaches, salt bins will be attached to the trucks.
Safety Director: No report.
Auditor: Auditor Randall explained that because of an upgrade to the computer system, she was unable to get a cash report for Council. After 28 years of service, Auditor Randall distributed her resignation to the Mayor and Council, effective December 31, 2022. She was given a round of appreciation applause.
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: Mrs. Armstrong said the Committee met and submitted recommendations of additional streets to be paved. The Mayor is going to meet with Semper Fi Paving to get a price for paving the additional roads. He will report back to Council. A special meeting may have to be held to consider this paving proposal.
Ordinance: Mr. Shrodes said there were two Ordinances on the agenda tonight.
Sewer/Sidewalk: No report.
Code Administration: No report.
Safety: No report.
Service: No report.
Cemetery: No report.
Public Relations: Mr. Shrodes thanked the city workers who helped clean-up the Park after the Fall Fest on October 15.
Real Estate: The Mayor said an email was received from A.C. Wiethe of Bel-O-Mar, saying bids will be accepted beginning on October 31, 2022 for the demolition of property on North Zane Highway and Jefferson Street.
Utility: The Utility Committee met on October 11, 2022, and discussed unpaid Utility Bills and how collections will be handled. The paving repair of South Zane Highway was also discussed. This job will go out to bid. Minutes of this meeting were submitted to the Clerk and will be filed with these Council Minutes.
Income Tax: No report.
Citizens To Be Heard:
Richard Hord, 915 Virginia Street, thanked Auditor Randall for her many years of service. He also thanked the Mayor for his attempt to have a “Meet the Candidates” Session in Martins Ferry, but because of conflicts and schedules, the event could not be scheduled. When asked about the PNC and former Dollar General Buildings, the Mayor replied he didn’t know about the PNC building and he was sure when the interested parties were ready, they would make an announcement about plans for the former Dollar General Building. The Mayor said Officer Starkey has been very busy with code enforcement and things are working well. Mr. Hord was told that Columbia Gas is trying to finish up their work for the year on South Zane Highway by October 31. As soon as the weather breaks in the Spring, they will start up again.
Brian Woodford, 1319 Kennedy Avenue, asked for a private session with Council regarding an issue with a family member emergency and the EMS transport service regarding that member. President Davis told Mr. Woodford that he needed to speak to the Safely Director on this matter. She told Council they could talk to the Woodford family individually after the meeting but it would be entirely voluntary. The Mayor said the Safety Director is checking into this issue.
Ordinances and Resolutions:
An Ordinance To Revise The Codified Ordinances By Adopting Current Replacement Pages, and Declaring An Emergency.
This Ordinance was given a first reading. This Ordinance will go to a second reading.
The second Ordinance could not be read because there were not enough Council Members present to suspend the 72 hour rule. Mr. Sutak explained the process of levying special assessments in order to collect on delinquent bills.
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. Sutak said the city is waiting for their Insurance Company to meet the former Beans Foundry Building owner’s specifications on liability. Once this information is received, Mr. Sutak will again contact the owners to see if the city can temporary house the road salt there until the new metal building is received and erected.
Mr. Shrodes moved to have Council go into Executive Session under Ohio Revised Code 121.22 G4 to discuss contract negotiations and 121.22 G2 for Personnel. Motion was seconded by Mr. Hunker. A roll call vote was heard with Shrodes, Armstrong, Burns, Schramm, and Hunker voting yes. The motion carried and Council went into Executive Session.
Mr. Schramm made a motion to go out of Executive Session. Mr. Hunker seconded the motion. A roll call vote was heard with Schramm, Hunker, Shrodes, Armstrong, and Burns voting yes. The motion carried. Council was in Executive Session for 32 minutes.
Council told Auditor Randall that they would like to have an Exit Conference with the Auditors.
Mr. Shrodes moved and Mr. Schramm seconded to excuse Mr. Regis and Mr. Rodgers from tonight’s meeting. After an affirmative voice vote, the motion carried.
Mrs. Armstrong motioned to allow the Mayor to contract with an outside Contract Negotiation Firm. Mr. Burns seconded the motion. A roll call vote was heard with Armstrong, Burns, Schramm, Hunker and Shrodes voting yes. The motion carried.
Mr. Shrodes 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.
Mr. Sutak clarified that when he is finished with the needed grant paperwork, the city will receive about $49,000 toward the cost of the Splash Pad. Unified Bank donated $6,000 for the Splash Pad and the Lion’s Club has indicated it will donated as well.
Mrs. Armstrong moved to adjourn, which was seconded by Mr. Hunker. After an affirmative voice vote, the motion carried and the meeting was adjourned at 7:13 p.m. with a salute to the flag.
The next regular meeting of the Martins Ferry Council will be held on Wednesday, November 2, 2022, at 6:00 p.m. at the Donald Myers Council Chambers.
___________________________________ ___________________________________ Kay H. McFarlan, Clerk of Council Kristine Davis, Council President
The Martins Ferry City Council met in Regular Session on Wednesday, October 5, 2022, 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, 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 and Jack Regis, Council at Large Members. Jim Schramm, Council at Large Member, told President Davis he was not able to attend this meeting.
Minutes: Minutes of the September 21, 2022 Regular Council Meeting were approved as written.
Correspondence: An email was received from the Walter Drane Company saying they were shipping 14 sets of the 2022 Replacement Pages for the Martins Ferry Codified Ordinances. They will update the website soon. (These codified ordinances have already been received and placed on Council Member’s desks). The Ordinance to adopt these replacement pages will be acted on at the next Council Meeting after Council Members have had a chance to look through the pages.
Reports of Officers of the City:
Mayor: Mayor Davies gave permission for Jessa Lepic to speak during his report time. Ms. Lepic addressed Council regarding her qualifications and desire to be elected to the position of Belmont County Auditor in November. She then answered a few questions of Council.
The Mayor asked Council to approve the purchase of 2 low mileage SUVs for the EMS to transport patients. Cost would be approximately $50,000 and the American Rescue Money could be used for this purchase. The EMS would also like permission to sell their LifePac 10s which they no longer use.
Currently the city has between 80-100 tons of road salt. The Owners of the former Beans Foundry, are permitting the city to store the salt inside one of their buildings.
The paving on 6th Street, 8th Street, 9th Street and Crawford Heights is complete. The Mayor reviewed the dates for the rest of the scheduled paving projects. The Paving Company said they are able to work until the second week of November if the city would like to schedule additional paving projects. It is believed that the price of asphalt will increase by 10% next year.
The Police Contract has to be re-negotiated. The Mayor asked for a couple of Council Members to sit in on the negotiations. Council Members would not be able to negotiate but they could have input.
Unified Bank has donated $2,500 toward the cost of the Splash Pad. This money will go back into the Permanent Improvement Fund. The Mayor mentioned to Mr. Everson, Bank President, that he would like to put artificial turf around the Pad which would cost around $2,750. Mr. Everson said the Bank would cover this cost. The Mayor praised the Bank for their phenomenal support of projects throughout the community.
Mr. Shrodes asked for an update on the auction for the city vehicles. Mr. Sutak said he is working on getting that organized. Hopefully the auction can be held at the end of this month or sometime in early November.
The Mayor said this week is Curbside Clean-Up for the city. He highly praised the city crews for their efforts in picking up the extra trash.
Discussion was held regarding mine subsidence in the North Ridge, Hillendale and State Route 647 area. Mr. Sutak is searching for answers to this problem and would like to address it before it becomes a major issue.
Service Director: Mr. Sutak, Assistant Auditor Trish Headley, and Auditor Randall have been looking over the budget, adjusting line items and getting appropriations finalized and approved.
Mr. Sutak explained that since the city is able to store the road salt inside, the grit can be mixed easier with the salt. Because the salt will stay dry, it will retain more strength and work more efficiently to clear the snow and ice from the roads.
The city will be getting a “Holiday Insurance” break and will not have to pay for the city’s employee health insurance for one year. This will free-up money in all departments.
Mr. Sutak met with a representative from National Limestone who will be giving him a bid on re-paving South Zane Highway.
Mr. Sutak explained the steps needed to secure the $25,000 Nature Works Ballfield Light Grant. After receiving this grant, the new lighting in the ballfield will not cost the city any money. Mr. Stecker was thanked for his input on this project. Mr. Sutak is working on the finalizing the Grant paperwork for the Splash Pad. He believes the city will get reimbursed close to $50,000 for the project.
An email from Cory DelGuzzo, of Northwest Title, was distributed to Council members regarding the title search of St. Rt. 647. Hopefully by next week an answer will be received.
Mr. Sutak presented an invoice for an Air Compressor purchased for the Water Plant. The Compressor was needed immediately and a purchase order was not submitted. Cost was $3,976.50. Council was asked for permission to pay this invoice and note it in the minutes.
The State Auditors suggested that Council make sure that when Council receives tax, revenue and expense reports from the Auditors Office that it is noted in the minutes that Council accepted these reports. The State Auditors asked that Council be supplied with a check register every month and that it also be noted in the minutes.
Safety Director: No report.
Auditor: No report.
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: Mr. Rodgers set a Street Committee Meeting for Tuesday, October 11, 2022 at 9:15 a.m. to discuss possibly getting additional streets paved this year since the price of asphalt is projected to increase by 10% next year. Before the October 11 Meeting, Council was encouraged to submit names of Streets to the Committee that they think need paved. The Mayor said if Streets were “overlaid” instead of “grinding” it would be more feasible and more streets could get paved.
Ordinance: Mr. Shrodes asked Council Members to look over the Codified Ordinances from Walter Drane. Mr. Stecker has sent an Ordnance to all Council Members which will be read at the next Council Meeting.
Sewer/Sidewalk: No report.
Code Administration: No report.
Safety: No report.
Service: No report.
Cemetery: Mr. Burns mentioned there may be some vandalism on the two pillars at the entrance of the cemetery. He will check on it during daylight hours.
Public Relations: At the last Chamber of Commerce dinner, Unified Bank was honored for their historical support of the community and charities in the city.
Real Estate: No report.
Utility: Mr. Hunker has scheduled a Utility Committee Meeting for October 11 at 10:00 a.m. in Council Chambers.
Income Tax: No report.
Citizens To Be Heard:
Anthony Orsini, Director of the Belmont County District Library, Roosevelt Street in Crawford Heights, spoke on behalf of the Library Levy Renewal which will be on the November 8, 2022 ballot. This 1 mil property tax levy provides 46% of the local libraries funding. Cost to citizens is about $30 per year. This is not a new tax. Mr. Orsini distributed flyers explaining the levy. He also praised the workers who paved the roads in Crawford Heights and thanked the city for fixing the road.
Richard Hord, 915 Virginia Street, was told if he wanted to plan a “Meet the Candidate” night the city would set it up at the Recreation Center. He asked if the Chamber of Commerce could have a full-time director to help get more businesses in town. Mr. Stecker said there is limited funds and the Chamber has only 80 members. Mr. Hord was told that Bel-O-Mar would demolish the old Curly property by October 15th. Mr. Sutak did send an email to Bel-O-Mar to see if October 15 was still the projected date of the demolition but he has not heard back from them. The Mayor reported that East Ohio Regional Hospital will be buying a couple more ambulances for their transport business. There are no updates on the former Staffilino Property. Mr. Hord thanked the Mayor for the curbside clean-up week.
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. Shrodes reported School Bus Drivers are complaining about kids and adults on electric bicycles not obeying traffic laws. Chief McFarland was contacted about this situation and he will have his officers educate these citizens and let them know that they must obey the same laws as cars and other vehicles.
Mr. Regis made a motion and Mr. Rodgers seconded to appropriate up to $50,000 from the American Rescue Money for the purchase of two EMS vehicles. A roll call vote was heard with Regis, Hunker, Shrodes, Armstrong, Rodgers, and Burns voting yes. The motion was declared passed.
Mr. Shrodes motioned to approve an invoice from Airtec for $3,976.50 to pay for air compressor services for the Water Department. Motion was seconded by Mrs. Armstrong. A roll call vote was heard with Shrodes, Armstrong, Rodgers, Burns, Regis and Hunker voting yes. The motion was declared passed.
Mr. Regis motioned to allow the Martins Ferry EMS to sell their LifePac 10s. Motion was seconded by Mr. Hunker. A roll call vote was heard with Regis, Hunker, Shrodes, Armstrong, Rodgers, and Burns voting yes. The motion was declared passed.
Mr. Regis 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 gave an update on the Sunset Heights Water Tank and the problems it caused to the Miller’s property. On Monday, weather permitting, city crews will fix their road that was damaged by water leaking from the Tank. The City is still waiting on a part to permanently fix the Tank.
Mr. Hunker made a motion to excuse Mr. Schramm from tonight’s meeting. Motion was seconded by Mr. Regis. After an affirmative voice vote, the motion carried.
Auditor Randall would like Council to clarify meeting dates for November and December so she will know when to have the preliminary and final budgets done to presented to Council. Council decided to keep the meeting dates of November 2 and November 16. President Davis will speak to Auditor Randall and see what kind of timeline she would need to have the budgets ready.
Mr. Regis asked to be excused from the October 19, 2022 meeting. The Mayor also said he would not be able to attend the October 19 meeting.
Mr. Shrodes moved to adjourn, which was seconded by Mr. Hunker. After an affirmative voice vote, the motion carried and the meeting was adjourned at 7:03 p.m. with a salute to the flag.
The next regular meeting of the Martins Ferry Council will be held on Wednesday, October 19, 2022, at 6:00 p.m. at the Donald Myers Council Chambers.
___________________________________ ___________________________________ Kay H. McFarlan, Clerk of Council Kristine Davis, Council President
The Martins Ferry City Council met in Regular Session on Wednesday, October 5, 2022, 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, 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 Burn and Jack Regis, Council at Large Members. Jim Schramm, Council at Large Member, told President Davis he was not able to attend this meeting.
Minutes: Minutes of the September 21, 2022 Regular Council Meeting were approved as written.
Correspondence: Correspondence was received from the Walter Drane Company they were shipping 14 sets of the 2022 Replacement Pages for the Martins Ferry Codified Ordinances. The internet will be updated soon. (These codified ordinances have already been placed on Council Members desks). The Ordinance, to adopt these replacement pages, will be acted on at the next Council Meeting after Council Members have had a chance to look through the pages.
Reports of Officers of the City:
Mayor: Mayor Davies gave permission for Jessa Lepic to speak during his report time. Ms. Lepic addressed Council regarding her qualifications and desire to be elected to the position of Belmont County Auditor in November. She then answered a few questions of Council.
The Mayor asked Council to approve the purchase of 2 low mileage SUVs for the EMS to transport patients. Cost would be approximately $50,000 and the American Rescue Money could be used for this purchase. The EMS would also like permission to sell their LifePac 10s which they no longer use.
Currently the city has between 80-100 tons of road salt. The 4-K Owners are permitting the city to store the salt inside one of their buildings (The Old Beans Foundry).
The paving on 6th Street, 8th Street, 9th Street and Crawford Heights is complete. The Mayor reviewed the rest of the scheduled paving projects. The Paving Company said they are able to work until the second week of November if the city would like to schedule additional paving projects. It is believed that the price of asphalt will increase by 10% next year.
The Police Contract has to be re-negotiated. The Mayor asked for a couple of Council Members to sit in on the negotiations. Council Members would not be able to negotiate but they could have input.
Unified Bank has donated $2,500 toward the cost of the Splash Pad (which will go into the Permanent Improvement Fund). The Mayor showed representative of Unified Bank the Splash Pad and said that he hoped to put artificial turf around the Pad. The Mayor mentioned to Mr. Everson, Bank President, that he would like to put artificial turf around the Pad which would cost around $2,750. Mr. Everson said the Bank would cover this cost. The Mayor praised the Bank for their phenomenal support of citywide projects.
Mr. Shrodes asked for an update on the auction for the city vehicles. Mr. Sutak said he is working on getting that organized. Hopefully the auction can be held at the end of this month or sometime in early November.
The Mayor said this week is Curbside Clean-Up for the city. He highly praised the city crews for their efforts in picking up the trash.
Discussion was held regarding the mine subsidence in the North Ridge, Hillendale and State Route 647. Mr. Sutak is searching for answers to this problem and wants to address it before it becomes a major issues.
Service Director: Mr. Sutak, Assistant Auditor Trish Headley, and Auditor Randall have looked over the budget to get some line items adjusted to get appropriations finalized and approved.
Mr. Sutak explained that since the city is able to store the road salt inside, the grit can be brought inside to be mixed with the salt. Because the salt will stay dry, it will retain more strength and work more efficiently to clear the snow and ice from the roads.
Safety Director: No report.
Auditor: No report.
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:
Street: No report.
Ordinance: No report.
Sewer/Sidewalk: No report.
Code Administration:
Safety: No report.
Service: No report.
Cemetery: No report.
Public Relations: No report.
Real Estate: No report.
Utility:
Income Tax: No report.
Citizens To Be Heard:
Richard Hord, 915 Virginia Street,
Ordinances and Resolutions:
This Resolution was given a First Reading. A
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. Regis 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. Rodgers. After an affirmative voice vote, the motion passed.
Mr. Hunker moved to adjourn, which was seconded by Mr. Rodgers. After an affirmative voice vote, the motion carried and the meeting was adjourned at 6:56 p.m. with a salute to the flag.
The next regular meeting of the Martins Ferry Council will be held on Wednesday, October 19, 2022, at 6:00 p.m. at the Donald Myers Council Chambers.
___________________________________ ___________________________________ Kay H. McFarlan, Clerk of Council Kristine Davis, Council President
The Martins Ferry City Council met for a Special Meeting on Sunday, September 18, 2022, at 6:00 p.m., at the Donald Myers Council Chambers. This meeting was called for the discussion of purchasing police vehicles.
Council President Kristine Davis called the meeting to order and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited by those present, 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; Tom Burns and Jim Schramm, Council at Large Members. Absent: Jack Regis, Council at Large Member and Rick Rodgers, Fourth Ward Council Member.
The Mayor said the Police Department needs to buy 3 vehicles. He asked Council to appropriate $225,000 which would cover the cost of the cruisers, necessary accessories, decals and any penalty imposed by Enterprise Rent-A-Car. This money would be taken from the American Rescue Money. Police Chief McFarland explained the problems with the 3 leased vehicles from Enterprise. A Chevrolet Dealer in Pittsburgh, PA has offered a price of $43,413.20 per vehicle. This is $6,000 less than other quotes received. There would be an additional expense to outfit the cruisers with the necessary equipment. Chief McFarland consulted with Service Director Sutak and it was estimated that purchasing these vehicles instead of leasing would save the General Fund almost $2,600 a month.
Mrs. Armstrong made a motion to reflect an amendment to the previous motion regarding the purchase of police vehicles on September 7, to make the final total up to $225,000, which includes $19,000 of equipment for the vehicles. Motion was seconded by Mr. Burns. A roll call vote was heard with Mrs. Armstrong, Mr. Burns, Mr. Schramm, Mr. Hunker and Mr. Shrodes voting yes. The motion was declared passed.
Mr. Shrodes made a motion to excuse Mr. Regis and Mr. Rodgers from tonight’s meeting. Mrs. Armstrong seconded the motion. After an affirmative voice vote, the motion passed.
Mr. Hunker moved to adjourn, which was seconded by Mr. Shrodes. After an affirmative voice vote, the meeting was adjourned at 6:13 p.m. with a salute to the flag.
___________________________________ ___________________________________ Kay H. McFarlan, Clerk of Council Kristine Davis, Council President
The Martins Ferry City Council met in Regular Session on Wednesday, September 7, 2022, 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, 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; Jim Schramm and Jack Regis, Council at Large Members. Tom Burns, Council at Large Member, informed President Davis he would not be able to attend tonight’s meeting. Minutes: Minutes of the August 17, 2022 Council Meeting were approved as written. Correspondence: The Walter Drane company has contacted the Council Clerk regarding updating the Codified Ordinances. Ordinances passed since August 5, 2021 will be sent to the company and the Clerk will be notified when the updates pages are completed and ready to be shipped. Reports of Officers of the City: Mayor: The Mayor reported that the Semper Fi Paving Company submitted the lowest bid at $662,045.39 for the paving of 9th Street, 8th Street and 6th Street, the area locally known as “Bull Town”. This bid was accepted and hopefully paving will begin at the end of September. Because recent water line breaks have ruined a few roads, the Mayor asked Council to include 3 other roads (Ohio Rd., Highland Rd., and Wood Rd.) in the “Bull Town” paving job. He will get the additional cost estimates for these jobs and report back to Council. The Mayor reported on several water line replacements and catch basins being worked on. Code enforcement is now being done by the Police Department. There will no longer be any warnings. Citations will be issued for high grass, weeds, trash can violations, and piles of junk on property. Offenders will come to Mayor’s Court and be fined. The problem with the Street Sweeper has been identified but it is not known how long it will take to get the parts to fix it. Tickets will not be issued for improper parking on Street Sweeper Days for the remainder of the year. The Cemetery Crew will be finishing with grass cutting soon. Some routine maintenance still needs done and a few trees need removed. Four hundred tons of salt has been purchased and Mr. Sutak is working with a company to possibly store the salt inside. The Mayor reported on the progress of the Impound Lot at 636 South Zane Highway. The lot is already paved, easy to police, and cameras can easily be installed. The Mayor asked Council if the $30,000 appropriated for the Impound Lot, which was to be built on the former Rose Café site, be put back into the General Fund and instead use some of the American Rescue Money for the Impound Lot on Zane Highway. Mr. Stecker is checking to see if the American Rescue Money can be used for the Impound Lot. One neighbor disagrees with the placement of the lot. Mr. Regis mentioned the neighbors he spoke with asked that the lot 1) not create problems for residents getting in and out of their garages in the alley and 2) the city clean up the mess and keep it organized. Mrs. Armstrong is concerned that the proposed site of the impound lot is on a major thoroughfare in the center of town and will make things look bad in that area. She is also afraid it may depreciate the neighbor’s property values. It is not the impound lot that Mrs. Armstrong is against, it is the location. The Mayor said that the cars towed to the city’s impound lot are ones that will be recovered. The lot will not be filled up with junk cars. Mr. Shrodes asked that the security lights shine down directly on the lot and not shine onto the surrounding homes. The Police Department and the EMS Department are having problems with vehicles. Two of the EMS cars are small and great on gas mileage. However, when there is snow on the roads or a larger person needs transported, these vehicles are inadequate. The EMS Department is asking for a larger 4-wheel drive vehicle. The Mayor estimated the cost to be around $50,000. This purchase can be paid out of the American Rescue Money. The Police Department would like to purchase 2 cruisers this year and one next year in order to stop the leasing arrangement. These purchases would probably amount to $250,000. The Mayor informed Council that $150,000 needs to be encumbered due to a major problem with the force main. It is believed that the force main is broke somewhere under a 1 miles stretch of the National Limestone Company. Mrs. Armstrong asked if the EMS carries COVID Testing Kits. The Mayor thought they did but didn’t know for sure. She was concerned because she knew a man who was treated by the EMS and within the next two days he tested positive for COVID. The Mayor will check on this issue. Mrs. Armstrong stated that other streets in town need lines painted. Mayor Davies stated if crews have time, they will be painted. The Fall Curb-Side Clean-Up Day will probably be sometime in early October. The Mayor will have the exact date for the next meeting.
Service Director: Mr. Sutak said a Resolution will be brought to Council at the next meeting to accept the amounts and rates as determined by the Budget Commission and Authorizing the Necessary Tax Levies and Certifying them. This Resolution has to be passed so it can be submitted to the County Auditor’s Office before October 1, 2022. Mr. Sutak will ask Mr. Stecker to create an Ordinance to have Council authorize moving .3 of the inside millage over into the bond retirement fund to help pay for Street Paving. A few more catch basins still need done before some of the roads are paved. Safety Director: No report. Auditor: No report. Law Director: No report. Police Department: Chief McFarland asked the Times Leader Reporter to remind citizens that fines will assessed if building permits or contractor licenses are not secured. Mr. Sutak asked that the fees received from the sale of building permits and contractor licenses be placed in the Safety Service Line Item which paid the previous Code Administrator’s salary. Any officer doing code enforcement duties can be paid from this fund, thus alleviating the General Fund of this responsibility. Research will be done to see if the fines for high grass and garbage can infractions can also be placed in the Safety Service Fund. The Chief reported grant applications have been submitted 1) for Laptops for officers who attend trainings and 2) to help with the cost of maintenance of current Body Cameras. Fire Department: No report. Code Administrator: No report. Park District: No report. Water Department: No report. Reports of Committees of Council: Finance and Audit: Chairman Regis scheduled a meeting for Tuesday, September 13 at 10:00 a.m. to look at line items of the budget and see if anything needs changed. Mr. Sutak reported that the settlement of property taxes have been received and can be reviewed at this meeting. Street: No report. Ordinance: No report. Sewer/Sidewalk: No report. Code Administration: Mr. Regis will set up a committee meeting with Attorney Stecker to discuss the city’s liability, if any, with known dilapidated properties in town. Safety: Mr. Schramm will check with the Police Department on a few safety codes. Service: No report. Cemetery: No report. Public Relations: No report. Real Estate/Utility: No report. Income Tax: No report. Citizens To Be Heard: Richard Hord, 915 Virginia Street, complimented Officer Starkey on the fine job he has been doing with code enforcement. Mr. Hord asked for an updated on the water run-off on the Miller property discussed at Council Meeting a few months ago. The water run-off has been alleviated by running a hose to a creek bed. As soon as the part is available, the problem will be permanently fixed. Mr. Hord reported that the Belmont County Commissioners approved $75,000 for the city’s paving improvements from the permissible license tax. The Mayor said this money will be used to pave 9th Street. There is no update regarding the former Staffilino Property. The Mayor said he still plans to honor Mr. Nicholson, Mr. Wallace, and Mr. Sommers at a future meeting. Mr. Hord asked about Auditor Randall and was told she was still in the “decision-making loop” but has not been released to return to work.
Ordinances and Resolutions: This Ordinance was given a First Reading. An Ordinance Increasing The Hourly Wage For Certain Part-Time Positions in the EMS Department. Motion was made by Mr. Shrodes to suspend the rules. Motion was seconded by Mr. Schramm. A roll call vote was heard with Shrodes, Armstrong, Rodgers, Schramm, Regis and Hunker voting yes. The motion carried. Motion was made by Mr. Regis to pass the Ordinance as read. Motion was seconded by Mr. Hunker. A roll call vote was heard with Regis, Hunker, Shrodes, Armstrong, Rodgers and Schramm voting yes. The 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. Regis made a motion that Council appropriate $60,000 from the American Rescue Money for the purchase of 1 police cruiser. Motion was seconded by Mr. Rodgers. A roll call vote was heard with Regis, Hunker, Shrodes, Armstrong, Rodgers and Schramm voting yes. The motion carried. Mr. Shrodes inquired about the Auction for older city vehicles. Mr. Regis said he is waiting for the Auctioneer to give him an available date. The Auctioneer will take care of placing an ad in the paper. Sometime early next year, Mr. Shrodes asked for a list of every vehicle, machinery and piece of equipment the city owns. Mr. Sutak said he will gather this information and get it to Mr. Shrodes. Mr. Hunker made a motion to allow the Mayor to establish an impound lot at 636 South Zane Highway (formerly Robert’s Pontiac). Motion was seconded by Mr. Schramm. A roll call vote was heard with Hunker, Shrodes, Rodgers, Schramm and Regis voting yes. Mrs. Armstrong voted no. The motion passed. Mr. Regis made a motion to approve $30,000 from the American Rescue Fund Money for the Impound Lot cameras and fencing. Motion was seconded by Mr. Hunker. A roll call vote was heard with Regis, Hunker, Shrodes, Rodgers and Schramm voting yes. Mrs. Armstrong voted no. The motion carried. Mr. Regis made a motion to grant the Mayor permission to add Ohio Avenue, Highland Avenue and Woods Lane to the Paving Project. Motion was seconded by Mr. Schramm. A roll call vote was heard with Regis, Hunker, Shrodes, Armstrong, Rodgers and Schramm voting yes. The motion was declared passed. Mr. Shrodes made a motion and Mr. Regis seconded, to excuse Mr. Burns from tonight’s meeting. After an affirmative voice vote, the motion carried. Mr. Schramm noted that the Gas Company’s contractor who replaced the sidewalks on South Zane Highway did an inadequate job. 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. Rodgers. After an affirmative voice vote, the motion passed. After a year of trying to negotiate with the company that paved South Zane Highway, the Mayor has consulted with Attorney Stecker and decided to hire another company to get the road fixed. Bids will be accepted for this job. After the road has been repaired and the bill paid, any money left from the retainer will be given to the original paving company that did the inferior work. Council did not object to this action. Mrs. Armstrong moved to adjourn, which was seconded by Mr. Hunker. After an affirmative voice vote, the motion carried and the meeting was adjourned at 6:57 p.m. with a salute to the flag.
______________________________________________ Kay H. McFarlan, Clerk of Council Kristine Davis, Council President
