Posted on: March 24, 2021
The Martins Ferry City Council met in Regular Session on Tuesday, March 24, 2021, 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. Seating was spaced for social distancing and other precautions were observed in accordance with the COVID-19 compliance.
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. Mr. Burns alerted President Davis earlier in the day that he would be unable to attend this meeting.
Motion was made by Mr. Regis and seconded by Mr. Schramm to change the order of business so Legislation could be addressed first. A roll call vote was heard with Regis, Hunker, Shrodes, Armstrong, Rodgers, and Schramm voting yes. The motion carried.
Ordinances and Resolutions:
An Ordinance to Make Appropriations For the Expenses of the City of Martins Ferry, State of Ohio, During the Fiscal Year Ending December 31, 2021, and Declaring an Emergency.
Motion was made by Mr. Rodgers to suspend the rules. Motion was seconded by Mr. Regis. A roll call vote was heard with Rodgers, Schramm, Regis, Hunker, Shrodes and Armstrong voting yes. The motion carried. Motion was made by Mr. Hunker to pass the Ordinance as read. Motion was seconded by Mrs. Armstrong. A roll call vote was heard with Hunker, Shrodes, Armstrong, Rodgers, Schramm, and Regis voting yes. The motion carried and the Ordinance was passed.
Mr. Rodgers then left the meeting due to illness.
President Davis reminded Council that a Financial Disclosure is due by April 5 to the County Election Board for council members running for re-election.
Minutes: Minutes of the Tuesday, March 9, 2021 Council Meeting were approved as written.
Correspondence: A notice was received from the Ohio Division of Liquor Control that The Ferry Flowers and More Shop on Walnut Street has applied for a Liquor License. Council has asked for more information regarding the reason this business is requesting this license. President Davis will contact this shop regarding this request.
Reports of Officers of the City:
Mayor: Mayor Davies said the sewer line on Crawford Heights is finished and the road will be patched as soon as asphalt is available.
The Mayor would like to purchase a commercial grade Cub Cadet lawnmower for use in the cemetery. Depending upon the size and model number, the cost was estimated at $6,000-$8,400.
In the last 3 weeks, the EPA has tested the water twice at the Plant and both times the water passed. This testing was required by the EPA because Martins Ferry is pumping water to Bridgeport. Expenditures will be forthcoming regarding tank repairs and audits. The Mayor stated future plans include replacing a water line in Hillendale and one in Sunset Heights.
The Mayor spoke to the kids using the Basketball Court at the City Park. He encouraged them not to use foul language and to keep the area clean. In exchange for their cooperation, the city would supply paint and materials to maintain the court. The city is going to apply for a Nature Works Grant in which the city would agree to match 25% of the grant. The Mayor hopes if the grant is received, labor supplied by the city might count towards part of the 25% match. The Mayor would like to replace the lighting in Fodor Field with LED lights to save on electricity. He estimated the cost to be around $10,000. Other Park improvements suggested were repairs to the roof on the stage and lighting for the basketball court and the Hillendale Ball Fields. Mr. Sutak will secure the grant application with guidelines and reported back to Council. Mr. Regis was told by the Martins Ferry Civics that they are erecting $20,000 of fencing in three ballfields in the city. In 2018, Council passed a motion to give $4,500 to the Civics. To date, the Civics have not received this money.
Work on the sewer in Floral Valley continues. The Mayor has suggested re-routing this pipeline for easier maintenance.
The city will be receiving stimulus money in the amount of $1.28 mil. The government dictates how this money is to be spent. Presently, the only specifications are sewer and water updates. The city will get ½ of this money in 2021 and the rest in 2022. The Mayor did not know when the city would receive this year’s allotment.
Mr. Hunker asked about the paving of the portion of South Zane Highway where the road was dug up in order to place additional pipelines to supply Bridgeport with water. The Mayor said this paving job was the Engineering Company’s responsibility that was hired through the EPA for Bridgeport.
Service Director: Mr. Sutak reported crews were going to put a catch basin in Floral Valley. Last week, the crews were cold patching potholes.
The Mayor and Mr. Sutak will meet with the attorney to recoup the funds used to run the sewer line to the property where a new home was being built in Crawford Heights. The city extended the sewer line for a single property owner and the owner is responsible for the material and labor costs of running this line to their property.
Safety Director: Director Regis said that the Fire Department will be escorting the Easter Bunny(ies) through the city on Saturday, April 3, 2021 from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Date and time will be posted in the Times Leader.
Fire Reporting has been rectified with the State Fire Marshall Office. Reporting has to be on a regular weekly basis, even if there were no reportable instances. The EMS software problems have been fixed and the billing should be current.
Funding for one of the EMS Squads fell through so the Mayor decided to cancel one of the vehicles. The Department will still receive 1 new squad. Council had appropriated $50,000 from the COVID Relief Line Item to the EMS Fund for wages which freed up money in the EMS Fund for the new squads. After purchasing the first emergency vehicle, there will be about $21,000 left from the $50,000 appropriation in the EMS Fund. The Mayor asked Council for approval to use this money to purchase gear for the protection of the city’s fire fighters. Director Regis said that 6 men will be starting Fire Fighting Training after Easter. They will need to have fire-fighting approved gear for interior structures after passing State Exams. Complete gear for one fire-fighter is approximately $2,300. Mr. Sutak stressed the importance of correctly reporting the use of expenditures from the COVID Relief money in the budget.
Auditor: No report.
Law Director: No report.
Police Department: Chief McFarland reported the results of a house monitored and suspected of being used for drug deals. Also, the culprit responsible for the bomb scare at the Elementary School has been identified. The Department was also alerted that U.S. Marshalls were in town looking for a suspect reportedly involved in a murder at the Voodoo Lounge on Wheeling Island.
The Chief inquired about funding for 2 of his officers who are Taser Instructors and need their certifications renewed soon. The Department’s Taser Guns are 7 years old and need replaced. The Chief will have the costs of these requests at the next Council Meeting.
Funding of a Police Dispatcher was discussed. Mr. Sutak suggested adjusting certain line items in the budget to fund the Police Department and EMS needed expenditures. After more information is gathered regarding all the expenses needed for these departments, a motion can be made on the floor of Council to approve the appropriate funding source.
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. Regis asked Council to pass the budget tonight. He would also like to see Council fund Police Department requests, EMS and fire-fighting gear and also help the Civics with fencing at the ball fields. A budget from the Recreation Department has been received. Mr. Regis would like to meet with the Administration, Finance Committee and the Recreation Board liaisons and discuss the Recreation Center’s finances and future plans.
Street: No report.
Ordinance: No report.
Sewer/Sidewalk: No report.
Code Administration: No report.
Safety: No report.
Service: Mr. Shrodes said he would set up a Service Committee Meeting at the next Council Meeting.
Cemetery: No report.
Public Relations: No report.
Real Estate/Utility: No report.
Income Tax: No report.
Citizens To Be Heard: President Davis reminded citizens to limit their speaking to 5 minutes.
Richard Hord, 915 Virginia Street, was delighted with the opening of a Pharmacy at East Ohio Regional Hospital. The Mayor said the hospital is moving along as planned with more things materializing in the future. Another business, the Tokyo Hibachi Restaurant has opening in the space formally occupied by Dairy Queen. Mr. Hord asked if Union Street and Broadway Street could be paved at the same time as South Zane Highway. These roads have been heavily traveled because people are using this route to detour from the rough road created by the pipeline project on South Zane Highway. The Mayor said South Zane Highway will be paved by the Engineering Company. The city is creating a list of streets to be paved but these roadways will not be done at the same time.
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. Hunker. After an affirmative voice vote, the motion passed.
Mr. Regis made a motion to appropriate up to $6,000 from the Permanent Improvement Fund to pay for the fencing at the Hillendale Ball Field. Motion was seconded by Mr. Schramm. A roll call vote was heard with Regis, Hunker, Shrodes, Armstrong, and Schramm voting yes. The motion carried.
Mr. Shrodes made a motion and Mr. Schramm seconded to excused Mr. Burns from tonight’s meeting. After an affirmative voice vote, the motion carried.
President Davis thanked Mr. Schramm for the purchase of the new wall clock. She also thanked Mr. Shrodes for the 5 minutes timer reminder.
Mr. Hunker moved to adjourn, which was seconded by Mr. Regis. After an affirmative voice vote, the meeting was adjourned with a salute to the flag.
The meeting ended at 7:06 p.m.
Posted on: March 9, 2021
The Martins Ferry City Council met in Regular Session on Tuesday, March 9, 2021, 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. Seating was spaced for social distancing and other precautions were observed in accordance with the COVID-19 compliance.
Answering Roll Call were: 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. Bob Hunker, First Ward Council Member, informed President Davis that he was unable to attend this meeting.
Minutes: Minutes of the February 17, 2021 Council Meeting were approved as written.
Correspondence: There was no correspondence.
Reports of Officers of the City:
Mayor: Mayor Davies announced there will be a free “Clean-Up” Day on Saturday, March 27, 2021. Citizens can take unwanted items to the Transfer Station from 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 noon. Two other “Clean-Up” Days will be scheduled later this year.
On Saturday, April 17, the Civics have requested that Hickory Street from Zane Highway to 4th Street, and 5th Street from Hickory Street to Walnut Street be blocked off for the opening day of the youth baseball season and a Car Show. Time: 11:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
The Transfer Station is now operational and is used when the weather is bad or when the trash is extra heavy. The company that hauls the boxes has requested only 18 tons per box.
The Mayor reported that Mr. Sutak had to attend a school board meeting tonight to discuss the taxes on the dilapidated properties that the city would like to demolish. Mr. Sutak sent the Mayor a message that everything went well. He has also spoken to Ms. Kelich, Belmont County Treasurer, about getting liens released on these properties.
Martins Ferry Water Department is pumping around 20 million gallons of water to Bridgeport every month. This is about twice the amount that was expected.
Grace Presbyterian Church would like to use the City Park on Sunday, June 13, 2021 (not June 11 as previously approved in the February 17 minutes).
One of the mowers used in the Cemetery needs replaced. The Mayor would like to purchase a commercial two-wheel drive gas mower to be used on the flat areas. The cemetery already has 2 four-wheel drive tractors that can be used to cut the grass on the hills. The Mayor will get estimates and report his finding to Council.
At the last meeting, there was a motion to put the COVID money towards an ambulance. This money has to be placed in Fund 47 for EMS wages which will then free up money from Fund 47 to pay for the ambulance.
The Mayor reported crews have been working on a problem with a sewer line in Floral Valley and trying to locate a sewer line in Crawford Heights for the construction of a new home. He reported the Sewer Capital Fund and Water Capital Fund are doing well.
Mr. Rodgers asked the Mayor to check on the sewer line that services 502 Kuckuck Lane. The owner had a company look at it and said the problem was not on his property.
Service Director: No report.
Safety Director: No report.
Auditor: Auditor Randall reported that the Worker’s Compensation figures in the tentative budget previously distributed were incorrect. She is in the process of correcting the error and the budget should be ready for Council to review in the next couple of days. A 2020 R.I.T.A. report was received and the city lost $136,000 of income tax last year.
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: Mr. Regis reported the Finance and Audit Committee met on February 23 and March 2 to discuss the budget. Minutes of these meetings will be filed with the Council Minutes. The next meeting will be Tuesday, March 16 at 5:30 p.m.
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: No report.
Income Tax: No report.
Citizens To Be Heard: President Davis reminded citizens to limit their speaking to 5 minutes.
Richard Hord, 915 Virginia Street, asked for an update on the location of the River Barge Loading Facility and was told it is still being considered. The Mayor told Mr. Hord that the City Building’s roof is currently “water tight” but it will need a new roof, possibly by using city labor. Also, the Mayor emphasized that people can come to the City Building and ring the doorbell for assistance. Because of the COVID-19 Pandemic, it is unwise to have citizens roaming the building and possibly spreading the virus to the workers. When asked about the positive impact the opening of East Ohio Regional Hospital has had on the city, the Mayor said no income tax money had been received yet, but restaurants, businesses and gas stations have likely seen increased revenue due to the increased traffic flow. PNC bank is leaving Martins Ferry and the Mayor was told this was a corporate decision. Mr. Hord asked for an update on the Plaques for former Police Chiefs and was told that Chief McFarland is working on it.
Ordinances and Resolutions:
There were no Ordinances or Resolutions to be read.
Miscellaneous Business:
Mr. Regis would like Council to request a current detailed operating budget from the Recreation Department. Mr. Burns concurred with this request. The Recreation Center has asked for Council’s help in replacing the glass front doors. Concerns were aired regarding the condition and upkeep of the building. The Mayor will send Council Members a copy of the lease agreement between the Recreation Center and the City. Mayor Davies stated that according to the major maintenance policy, repairs under $1,500 are the Recreation Center’s responsibility and anything over $1,500 is the city’s responsibility. Mr. Schramm will inquire when, where and what time the Recreation Board meets. President Davis will prepare a letter asking the Recreation Center for a current budget. Auditor Randall thought the County might have specific guidelines regarding obligations of the Park District.
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.
Motion was made by Mr. Rodgers to excuse Mr. Hunker from tonight’s meeting. Motion was seconded by Mr. Schramm. After an affirmative voice vote, the motion passed.
Mr. Regis made a motion to allow the Civics to use the ball field on Saturday, April 17, and block off the city streets from Zane Highway to 4th Street, and 5th Street from Hickory Street to Walnut Street. Motion was seconded by Mr. Schramm. After an affirmative voice vote, the motion passed.
Motion was made by Mr. Rodgers and seconded by Mrs. Armstrong to permit Grace Presbyterian Church to use the City Park on Sunday, June 13, 2021 from 12:00 – 6:00 p.m. After an affirmative voice vote, the motion passed. (This is a correction of the date requested in the February 17 minutes).
Mr. Burns informed Council that his daughter, Traci Tuttle, is no longer interested in purchasing the lot at 707 Delaware Street.
Mr. Burns was approached by Dan Cook, owner of Wheeling Heating and Cooling at 111 South Fifth Street regarding his company’s right to back over the curb to gain access to their business. Mr. Cook states that they have been pulled over by the city police for driving over the sidewalk. He is asking that this matter be addressed. Concerns were expressed about the business’s parking practices. Mr. Rodgers said after Easter he will set up a Street Committee Meeting and invite Mr. Cook to discuss the matter.
Mr. Rodgers asked the Mayor for an updated list of houses for demolition.
Mayor Davies informed Council that he received a call from Bernie Albertini, Chief Operating Officer at East Ohio Regional Hospital regarding a refusal of a transport by the Martins Ferry EMS. Mr. Albertini said he was told by EMS personnel that the city doesn’t have a contract with the hospital and they didn’t have to take the transport. The city has lost the contract with the hospital, although the Martins Ferry EMS has done some transports for the hospital. The Mayor said that only transports to Wheeling Hospital, Reynolds Hospital, Weirton Hospital and Trinity Hospital will currently be accepted. EMS personal will now work 8 hour shifts instead of 24 hours shifts.
Mr. Rodgers asked if an estimate has been received on removing the dead tree from the Walnut Grove Cemetery. Mayor Davies asked to meet Mr. Rodgers at the cemetery to identify the exact tree needed to be removed.
Mr. Regis made a motion to reword the COVID Fund motion passed at the last Council meeting. The wording needs changed to say the money in the COVID Fund will be used for EMS wages. Motion was seconded by Mr. Burns. A roll call vote was heard with Regis, Shrodes, Armstrong, Rodgers, Burns and Schramm voting yes. The motion carried.
Mrs. Armstrong moved to adjourn, which was seconded by Mr. Regis. After an affirmative voice vote, the meeting was adjourned with a salute to the flag.
Posted on: February 17, 2021
The Martins Ferry City Council met in Regular Session on Wednesday, February 17, 2021, 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. Seating was spaced for social distancing and other precautions were observed in accordance with the COVID-19 compliance.
Answering Roll Call were Bob Hunker, First Ward Council Member, Bruce Shrodes, Second Ward Council Member; Suzanne Armstrong, Third Ward Council Member; Tom Burns, Jim Schramm and Jack Regis, Council at Large Members. Rick Rodgers had previously informed President Davis that he would be late and he did arrive a few minutes after 6:00 p.m.
Minutes: Minutes of the January 20, 2021 Council Meeting were approved as written.
Correspondence: There was no correspondence.
Reports of Officers of the City:
Mayor: The Mayor asked Council to permit Grace Presbyterian Church to use the City Park on June 11, 2021 from 12:00 – 6:00 p.m. for an outside worship service and picnic.
An Ordinance was distributed to Council regarding support for the Solid Waste Management Plan of the Jefferson Belmont Regional Solid Waste Authority. The Mayor said he would like this passed by March 28.
A copy of the Customer Service Agreement from Republic Services, a garbage collection service, was given to Council. This company will supply and “pull” the boxes of garbage to the landfill. Mr. Stecker made some changes to the contract and it has been submitted to the company.
A Budget Meeting was scheduled for Tuesday, February 23, 2021 at 5:30 p.m. in Council Chambers.
The Mayor informed Council that the owner of the Rose Café, North 5th Street, is willing to sign the property over to the City. The City, County and E.O.R.W.A. have liens on the property. E.O.R.W.A. is not interested in recouping any money owed to them. If the Mayor can get the County tax liens released, the city could tear down the building, and sell the property. Also, the owner of the yellow house on the corner of Ellett and 5th Street, is willing to sign the property over to the city. Mayor Davies seeks Council approval to move ahead with gaining ownership of these properties. Mr. Stecker would prepare the necessary paperwork.
Dr. Johnson, owner of EORH, is interested in purchasing the 5th Street railroad property. If Council approves, the Mayor would like to have a professional appraise the property.
Mayor Davies asked Mr. Stecker to research the steps needed to transfer the Revolving Housing Loan Fund to a Demolition Fund.
The city has purchased 2 ambulances for $368,000 which will be delivered toward the end of summer. The Mayor understood that $234,000 would come from the first round of COVID-19 relief money to completely pay for one squad and half of the second one. Financing would be sought to pay for the remainder owed on the second ambulance. As of today, there is only $50,000 left in the COVID-19 Relief Fund. The Mayor asked Council for direction in this situation.
The Mayor reported that the city has ordered another 100 ton of salt but it has not yet been delivered.
Service Director: Mr. Sutak reported city crews are busy with snow removal. After the downtown area is plowed, dump trucks are brought in and the snow is hauled away. Garbage pick-up is difficult with the snow, especially in the alleys. Mr. Sutak praised the city crews for their hard work and dedication to the job during the difficult weather conditions. Mr. Regis and Mr. Rodgers commented that many citizens have expressed to them their appreciation for the city workers dedication in clearing the roadways.
Mr. Rodger asked about the Census Count and was told it has not been received.
Safety Director: No report.
Auditor: Auditor Randall informed President Davis that she would not be able to attend the meeting.
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: Mr. Regis said a Finance Meeting has been schedule for Tuesday, February 23 at 5:30 p.m. The Mayor said Auditor Randall will present the budget at this meeting.
Street: No report.
Ordinance: Mr. Shrodes said that the Service and Ordinance Committees met on January 28. Discussion centered on the problems with rubbish in the city. The result of that meeting is an ordinance regarding rubbish, garbage and outside storage that was sent to Council last Friday and will be read tonight.
Sewer/Sidewalk: No report.
Code Administration: No report.
Safety: No report.
Service: No report.
Cemetery: No report.
Public Relations: No report.
Real Estate/Utility: No report.
Income Tax: No report.
Citizens To Be Heard: President Davis reminded citizens to limit their speaking to 5 minutes.
Richard Hord, 915 Virginia Street, thanked the Mayor and the Administration for their help in getting East Ohio Regional Hospital opened. He hopes that this will attract other businesses to the area. Mr. Hord asked when the city building might reopen to the public. The Mayor explained that the building is still accessible to everyone. Visitors just ring the doorbell, state the reason they are there, and then the appropriate person is sent to them. The city employees were again thanked for their hard work in keeping the city street clear and the citizens safe. Mr. Hord asked if the city could recognize Bill Thomas, a recently retired attorney, for his contributions to the city during the last 4 decades of practicing law in Martins Ferry. The Mayor said there were a couple of other business leaders that they want to recognize also and he is trying to gather the needed information.
Ordinances and Resolutions:
An Ordinance Regarding Rubbish, Garbage, and Outside Storage.
Mr. Shrodes made a motion to suspend the rules. Mr. Schramm seconded the motion. A roll call vote was heard with Shrodes, Armstrong, Rodgers, Burns, Schramm, Regis and Hunker voting yes. The motion carried. A motion was made by Mr. Schramm and seconded by Mr. Hunker to pass the ordinance as read. 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.
Mr. Regis made a motion to suspend the 72 Hour Rule. Mr. Rodgers seconded the motion. A roll call vote was heard with Regis, Hunker, Shrodes, Armstrong, Rodgers, Burns and Schramm voting yes. The motion carried and the 72 Hour Rule was waived.
An Ordinance Approving the Solid Waste Management Plan of the Jefferson Belmont Regional Solid Waste Authority
Mr. Rodgers made a motion to suspend the rules. Mr. Shrodes seconded the motion. A roll call vote was heard with Rodgers, Burns, Schramm, Regis, Hunker, Shrodes and Armstrong voting yes. The motion carried.
Mr. Regis made a motion to pass the Ordinance as read. 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 and the Ordinance was declared passed.
Miscellaneous Business:
Mr. Regis made a motion to appropriate $50,000 from the COVID Relief line item toward the payment of an emergency squad, EMS Fund 47. Mr. Rodgers seconded the motion. A roll call vote was heard with Regis, Hunker, Shrodes, Armstrong, Rodgers, Burns and Schramm voting yes. The motion carried.
Mr. Schramm made a motion to allow the Mayor to seek an appraisal of the railroad property on Fifth Street, from Ellett Street to Center Street. Motion was seconded by Mr. Burns. A roll call vote was heard with Schramm, Regis, Hunker, Shrodes, Armstrong, Rodgers and Burns voting yes. The motion carried.
Mr. Regis motioned to allow the Mayor to investigate liens on property on Ellett and Center Street and the Rose Café, pending possible sales. A roll call vote was heard with Regis, Hunker, Shrodes, Armstrong, Rodgers, Burns and Schramm voting yes. The motion was declared passed.
Mr. Schramm motioned to allow Grace Presbyterian Church to use the City Park on June 11, from 12:00 – 6:00 p.m. Motion was seconded by Mr. Hunker. After an affirmative voice vote, the motion carried.
The Mayor would like to place a canon, currently being housed in the basement of the city building, in the City Park. This cast-iron canon is from the Spanish American War and was originally in the cemetery. It was suggested to contact the Tourism Council for funding for a stand for the canon. Mr. Shrodes made a motion to allow the Mayor to make arrangements for the Spanish American War Canon to be situated in an appropriate spot in the City Park. A roll call vote was heard with Shrodes, Armstrong, Rodgers, Burns, Regis and Hunker voting yes. The motion carried. (Note: Mr. Schramm was excused early from the meeting and was not there to vote on this motion).
Mr. Regis informed Council that the doors on the Recreation Center are in horrible condition. He would like to see them repaired or replaced. Mr. Sutak will check on funding for this project.
The Mayor has been involved with city government for many years. He has seen the different department employees intertwining with each other more this year. It’s a “well oiled” machine and the administration works well with the Union. The entire workforce bands together to make the city a better place.
Mrs. Armstrong made a motion that levy money be used first for salaries before General Fund money. Motion was seconded by Mr. Regis. A roll call vote was heard with Armstrong, Rodgers, Burns, Regis, Hunker, and Shrodes 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. Regis complimented Council and the Administration on working together for the good of the city.
Mr. Rodgers asked the Mayor for an estimate on demolishing the house on Center Street. The bid received from a contractor was $29,000. To tear down the structure internally, the Mayor estimated the cost to be $10,000 but he could not commit to an exact number. The Mayor explained that the biggest cost in demolition is the trucking of debri to the landfill. Mr. Rodgers expressed concern that someone may get hurt if this building collapses. Mr. Regis said the Finance and Audit Committee could address this issue at their next meeting.
Mr. Shrodes thanked the city workers who took their lunch hour and helped the Lions Club install the new “Welcome to Martins Ferry” sign at the corner of Hanover Street and St. Rt. 7.
Mr. Rodgers stressed that residents need to clear snow from their sidewalks. President Davis said that was a good reminder for the businesses in town to also be responsible and keep the sidewalks clean and safe for the citizens.
Mr. Rodgers moved to adjourn, which was seconded by Mrs. Armstrong. After an affirmative voice vote, the meeting was adjourned with a salute to the flag.
Posted on: January 20, 2021
The Martins Ferry City Council met in Regular Session on Wednesday, January 20, 2021, 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. Seating was spaced for social distancing and other precautions were observed in accordance with the COVID-19 compliance.
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. Absent: Jim Schramm.
President Davis welcomed Council back for the new year and expressed gratitude for their dedication and willingness to work together, especially in these trying times. She also reminded Council:
- If any Council Member is running for office again this year, petitions are due by Wednesday, February 3 at 4:00 p.m. to the Board of Elections.
- Campaign Finance Reports are due by April 5 for candidates who will be in the Primary in May.
Minutes: Minutes of the December 30, 2020 Council Meeting were approved as written.
Correspondence: There was no correspondence.
Reports of Officers of the City:
Mayor: Mayor Davies reported that crews are doing basic maintenance, fixing water breaks and doing snow removal. Funding is being sought to place a waterline across the footbridge near the football stadium to provide a “backup” water supply to the hospital. Martins Ferry is now supplying water to Bridgeport.
There is a variety of grant funding that the city is looking into securing. The Mayor hopes to secure matching grants to double the city’s ability for improvements, especially paving roadways.
Next week crews will be rebuilding a catch basin on Jefferson Street, separating the sewer and sanitation lines as mandated by the EPA. It is hoped that a grant can be secured to rebuild the catch basin on Grant Avenue. This is a major separation job. It is hoped that these jobs and the street paving can be done at the same time with matching grant money.
The Transfer Station is almost ready to open. Mayor Davies will finalize the agreement with the company who will supply and “pull” the boxes to the landfill. This will save wear and tear on the city trucks.
Mr. Rogers inquired about the Bridgeport Water Department’s computer system problems. The Mayor said those problems did not affect the calculation of water used by Bridgeport since the meter is read manually for billing purposes. Mr. Rogers also asked about the Sensitivity Training for city employees. He was told there will be two different trainings – one for the police department and the one for the other city offices. The Mayor said Council is welcome to attend these sessions.
Service Director: Mr. Sutak said he will need to set up a meeting with Mr. Stecker, Water Superintendent Bill Suto and the Mayor to discuss preparing an agreement with the Village of Bridgeport regarding water rates and increases for the next 4-5 years.
Director Sutak is working with the EPA on an Annual Report for MS4 (an intense report for storm water) for years 2018 and 2019. This is a difficult task for Mr. Sutak since he was not employed by the city at that time and does not know the intentions of the previous administration. The 2020 Report will be easier to complete.
Next week, the Service Director and Mayor will meet with an engineering group in regards to installing a “back-up” water line to the hospital. Funding for this project and the sewer project will be vigorously sought.
Mr. Regis said a woman, from Virginia Street, who did not want to be identified, contacted him to praise a city sanitation worker for “going out of his way” to help her as she was struggling with her garbage. Mr. Sutak said he would relay the message to the employees of that department. Mr. Regis asked if anything could be done about the rough patches on Zane Highway where the city water lines were installed to connect to Bridgeport. The Mayor said he would discuss it with Mr. Suto.
Mr. Rogers asked Mr. Sutak to remove a dead tree from the Betty Zane Cemetery. He is afraid it may fall and damage some of the headstones. It was also noted that a couple of city owned vehicles don’t display decals identifying them as city property. Mr. Sutak said he would check on it.
Safety Director: No report.
Auditor: Auditor Randall distributed a Statement of Cash as of January 20, 2021.
The Auditor reported that two companies have been contacted for estimates to enable Council Meetings to be live streamed. Baker IT Services, LLC submitted a proposal for $9,683.89. Another company was contacted but did not submit an estimate in writing. Since the City Building is not handicap accessible, this program would bring the city into compliance. Cost for this project could come from the Coronavirus Relief Fund.
Auditor Randall explained that a locked storage cabinet, housing the IT equipment in the basement of the City Building, needs replaced and rewired. An estimate of $5,102.15, including labor, has been received from Baker IT Services, LLC. When finished, only the Auditor, Police Department and Baker IT Services will have keys to this cabinet. Payment for the materials ($3,002.15) could be paid from the Permanent Improvement Fund and the labor cost of $2,100 would be split between the Auditor’s Office, Utility Office and the Police Department.
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: Auditor Randall reported there was some problems with formulas in the spreadsheets of the year-end reports that were sent to the County Auditor. She is working on correcting these problems. When the reports are finalized, Mr. Regis will schedule a Finance Committee Meeting.
Street: No report.
Ordinance: No report.
Sewer/Sidewalk: No report.
Code Administration: No report.
Safety: Mr. Regis said the Fire Department elected Tom Kelly as Chief 1 and Ron Hilton as Chief 2. The department has also set tentative dates for Betty Zane Days.
Service: Mr. Shrodes said a meeting date will be set at the next Council Meeting.
Cemetery: No report.
Public Relations: No report.
Real Estate/Utility: No report.
Income Tax: No report.
Citizens To Be Heard: President Davis reminded citizens to limit their speaking to 5 minutes.
Richard Hord, 915 Virginia Street, reported he was at the Belmont County Commissioners meeting and they approved $30,000 of CDBG for Martins Ferry. He asked about the possibility of a Fracking Waste Facility coming to the city. The Mayor said there has been an investigation of a site in the Industrial Park but that is all that is known at this time. Mr. Hord was told that Alesha Hill has been named as the new Chamber of Commerce Director. The Chamber may resume monthly meetings in February.
Ordinances and Resolutions:
There were no Ordinances or Resolutions to be read.
Miscellaneous Business:
Mr. Rodgers asked if the lease had been drawn up for the property at the corner of North 5th Street and Ellett Street. Mr. Stecker said he prepared the lease and sent it to the owners. He will check to see if it was sent back.
Mr. Hunker made a motion to excuse Mr. Schramm from tonight’s meeting. Mr. Rogers seconded the motion. After an affirmative voice vote, the motion carried.
The Mayor had a property owner from 5th Street in Mayor’s Court that owes $1,400 in fines because of the junk surrounding his house. The owner told the Mayor he doesn’t have the money to clean it up. The Mayor has threatened to have the city clean it up for him and put a lien for the charges incurred on his taxes. Mr. Stecker said an addition to the current ordinances is needed to allow the city to remediate a property and then charge the property owner the cost of the remediation. Mr. Shrodes asked Mr. Stecker to research this situation and prepare an ordinance and make it available at the combined meeting of the Ordinance Committee and Service Committee on Thursday, January 28 at 6:00 p.m. This will enable the committee to present their findings to Council at the next meeting.
The Mayor offered to demolish dilapidated homes in the city if Council is interested and money is available. He would prefer to do the demolition before summer when the workload is slower.
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. Regis made a motion to appropriate $3,002.15 from the Permanent Improvement Fund and $2,100 from the Utility Department, Auditor’s Office and Police Department to replace the cabinet housing the server, with Baker IT Services, LLC doing the work. Motion was seconded by Mr. Rodgers. A roll call vote was heard with Regis, Hunker, Shrodes, Armstrong, Rodgers and Burns voting yes. Motion carried.
Mr. Regis asked the Mayor to prepare a proposal in regards to the demolition projects so it can be addressed at the next Finance Committee Meeting and then brought to the next Council Meeting. The Mayor will meet with Mr. Stecker to review the EPA regulations and devise a plan.
Mr. Shrodes informed Council that retired police dog Ecko passed away. Officer Scales said that a memorial service would be held for Ecko as soon as arrangements can be made.
Mrs. Armstrong moved to adjourn, which was seconded by Mr. Shrodes. After an affirmative voice vote, the meeting was adjourned with a salute to the flag.
Posted on: December 31, 2018
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Posted on: December 31, 2015
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