The Martins Ferry City Council met in Regular Session on Wednesday, December 21, 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; Tom Burns, Jim Schramm and Jack Regis, Council at Large Members. Suzanne Armstrong, Third Ward Council Member, informed President Davis that she would not be able to attend this meeting. Rick Rodgers, Fourth Ward Council Member informed President Davis that he would be a few minutes late. (Mr. Rodgers did arrive at 6:08 p.m.)
Minutes: Minutes of the December 13, 2022 Regular Council Meeting were approved as written.
Correspondence: All Council Members were notified by email that the State Auditor’s report has been officially filed. Council members should review the online report for accuracy. It will be available for 14 days via the email that was received. Everyone received a copy of this report at the Audit hearing on December 6. After 14 days, the Audit will be made public.
Reports of Officers of the City:
Mayor: City workers are busy with general maintenance, water line breaks and sewer lines breaks.
Epoxy Flooring is being installed at the Recreation Center as time permits. During 2022, upgrades to the Center included: Roller Skating events, Splash Pad installation, and renovations to the swimming pool rest rooms.
Impound Lot – Parts are being made and shipped. Next week the Mayor will meet with the Installer to finalize the layout of the lot.
A Christmas Party for children, which included roller skating and a visit from Santa, was held at the Recreation Center on Sunday, December 18. The Mayor thanked the EMS, Fire Department and the Lion’s Club for organizing and sponsoring this event.
Police Chief McFarland informed the Mayor that a $12,084 Grant has been awarded to the Force for new Body Cameras.
The house on the “S” curve of Broadway Street has been demolished. Clean-up will be finished on the property during the first week of January.
The Mayor thanked Council for working with the Administration to accomplish many things this year such as paving and demolition. Special thanks was given to Service Director Sutak for his hard work with the city finances.
The City is prepared for the possible ice storm this weekend. If the storm does materialize, the Mayor asked citizens to stay off the roads, if possible, so the city workers can clear the roads.
The Mayor announced this is the third year in a row that the city has not raised any rates.
Service Director: Mr. Sutak praised the work of the Deputy Auditor and Payroll Clerk for their exemplary work these last couple of months. Deputy Auditor Trish Headley will be assuming the duties of Auditor until a new Auditor is appointed. Mr. Sutak will help the Deputy Auditor with certifications for next year. Once completed, Council will be given copies of the certifications showing what the projected revenues will be for Year 2023.
Council was asked to pass the Resolution regarding the Capital Improvement Grant through ODNR. This grant will go to reimburse funds for the cost of the Splash Pad. Also, Mr. Sutak asked for Council’s support to pass the Resolution to obtain certain Federal Financial Assistance under the Disaster Relief Act. This is to help East Ohio Regional Hospital acquire new generators.
Mr. Schramm asked Mr. Sutak to check Carlisle Street, near the old high school property, for a possible waterline break.
Mr. Burns informed Mr. Sutak that a hole, filled by the Gas Company after work was done, needs smoothed out. Otherwise it may create problems if the snow plows scraps the raised asphalted patch into a culvert.
Safety Director: Director Regis reported the back-up generator, approved for purchase by Council last year, will be installed at the Liberty Fire Station by Erb Electric before the end of the year.
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: 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: No report.
Utility: No report.
Income Tax: No report.
Citizens To Be Heard:
Richard Hord, 915 Virginia Street, commented that East Ohio Regional Hospital recently opened their new Residential Detox Center and the Mayor responded the Hospital is progressively moving forward. Also, the recent opening of the re-built Marathon/Bell Store is another positive addition to Martins Ferry. When asked if there were any disappointments this past year, the Mayor replied there were no disappointments but some things were going slower than expected. Concerning the selection of a new Auditor, the decision will be up to the Republican Party.
Ordinances and Resolutions:
Motion was made by Mr. Regis to suspend the 72 hour rule on the following three pieces of legislation. Motion was seconded by Mr. Schramm. A roll call vote was heard with Regis, Hunker, Shrodes, Rodgers, Burns and Schramm voting yes. The motion carried.
A Resolution Authorizing The City Of Martins Ferry To Enter Into The Capital Improvement Community Park, Recreation/Conservation Project Pass-Through Grant Agreement With The Ohio Department Of Natural Resources And To Execute Contracts As Required.
This Resolution was given a first reading. Motion was made by Mr. Shrodes and seconded by Mr. Burns to suspend the rules. A roll call vote was heard with Shrodes, Rodgers, Burns, Schramm, Regis and Hunker voting yes. The motion carried. Motion was made by Mr. Schramm to pass the Resolution as read. Mr. Rodgers seconded the motion. A roll call vote was heard with Schramm, Regis, Hunker, Shrodes, Rodgers, and Burns voting yes. The motion carried and the Resolution was declared passed.
A Resolution Designating John Davies, Mayor Of Martins Ferry, As Authorized To Execute For And In Behalf Of The City Of Martins Ferry, A Public Entity Established Under The Laws Of The State Of Ohio, This Application And To File It In The Appropriate State Office For The Purpose Of Obtaining Certain Federal Financial Assistance Under The Disaster Relief Act (Public Law 288, 23rd Congress) Or Otherwise Available From The President’s Disaster Relief Fund.
This Resolution was given a first reading. Motion was made by Mr. Hunker and seconded by Mr. Shrodes to suspend the rules. A roll call vote was heard with Hunker, Shrodes, Rodgers, Burns, Schramm, and Regis voting yes. The motion carried. Motion was made by Mr. Burns to pass the Resolution as read. Mr. Rodgers seconded the motion. A roll call vote was heard with Burns, Schramm, Regis, Hunker, Shrodes, and Rodgers voting yes. The motion carried and the Resolution was declared passed.
An Ordinance to Make Appropriations For the Expenses of the City of Martins Ferry, State of Ohio, during the Fiscal Year Ending December 31, 2022 and Declaring an Emergency.
This Ordinance was given a first reading. Mr. Regis made a motion and Mr. Hunker seconded to suspend the rules. A roll call vote was heard with Regis, Hunker, Shrodes, Rodgers, Burns and Schramm voting yes. The motion carried. Mr. Burns made a motion to pass the Ordinance as read. Mr. Schramm seconded the motion. A roll call vote was heard with Burns, Schramm, Regis, Hunker, Shrodes, and Rodgers voting yes. The motion carried and the Ordinance was declared passed. President Davis thanked Mr. Sutak and Trish Headley for all their hard work on getting this Ordinance created.
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. Schramm. After an affirmative voice vote, the motion passed.
Mr. Shrodes made a motion to excuse Mrs. Armstrong from tonight’s meeting. Motion was seconded by Mr. Regis. After an affirmative voice vote, the motion passed.
Mr. Regis made a motion to pass the Cost Allocation Report prepared by Schonhardt and Associates. Motion was seconded by Mr. Hunker. A roll call vote was heard with Regis, Hunker, Shrodes, Rodgers, Burns and Schramm voting yes. The motion carried.
Mr. Regis made a motion and Mr. Hunker seconded to move the first meeting of January to Wednesday, January 11, 2023, at 6:00 p.m. at the Donald Myers Council Chambers. A roll call vote was heard with Regis, Hunker, Shrodes, Rodgers, Burns and Schramm voting yes. The motion carried.
President Davis thanked the Council Members for all their hard work and support this year. Council Members and Mayor Davies added their thanks and appreciation for Council, Administration and the City’s Work Force.
Mr. Hunker moved to adjourn, which was seconded by Mr. Shrodes. After an affirmative voice vote, the motion carried and the meeting was adjourned at 6:34 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 Tuesday, December 13, 2022, at 5:00 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 November 16, 2022 Regular Council Meeting were approved as written.
Correspondence: There was no correspondence.
Council approved President Davis’s request to consider legislation after the Mayor and Service Director’s reports since several Council Members had to leave at 6:00 p.m.
Reports of Officers of the City:
Mayor: Mayor Davies deferred part of his time to Rev. James Agnew, Minister of the Tree of Life Church. Rev. Agnew informed Council that his church is interested in purchasing the property at 913 Jefferson Street, Martins Ferry, where a house was recently raised. The church would like to convert the property to off-street parking.
City Crews are working on general maintenance and repairing sewer lids on the newly paved areas. When the weather is bad, crews work in the Recreation Center doing repairs, painting, and laying new tile in the rest rooms.
Impound Lot – Cost of the slide gate is estimated at $18,000 and the cameras cost around $15,000. This is $3,000 more than the $30,000 approved by Council. The Mayor and Mr. Sutak will look at the finances to see where they might find this shortfall.
Service Director: Mr. Sutak and the Mayor met with the Engineers about the Force Main and how it might be re-routed into the Eastern Ohio Regional Wastewater Authority’s line near Turf Care. The plans are progressing for the waterline extension to the hospital and business district. Permits need to be secured from ODOT and the Railroad since the waterline will be going under railroad tracks and St. Rt. 7. Grants and funding are being researched for both of these projects.
Mr. Sutak will call Cory DelGuzzo, of Northwest Title, for an update on the title search and the de-annexation of St. Rt. 647.
Mr. Sutak asked President Davis to instruct the clerk to incorporate the names of the new hires for the year 2022 into the minutes. Going forward, every month, new hires, part time and full time, must be noted in the minutes. New hires for the year 2022 include:
James R. Blazy
Christopher Caprita
Marisa Cika
Zachary Cole
Joshua Cox
Alexander Finsley
Rodney Gentile
Ryan Hennessey
George Hulsey
Codi Klaus
Emily Kuhn
John McFarland
Richard McFarland
Matthew McMahon
Troy Neer
John Norton
Fred Owens
Connor Probst
Trey Regis
Jackson Romshak
Robert Shreve
Sarah Shreve
David Teasdale
Gabbrial Teasdale
Tyler Thomas
Melissa Wade
Mr. Regis made a motion to allow the Mayor to put the property at 913 Jefferson Street out to bid. Mr. Shrodes seconded the motion. A roll call vote was heard with Regis, Hunker, Shrodes, Armstrong, Rodgers, Burns and Schramm voting yes. The motion was declared passed.
Mr. Rodgers inquired about the paving of 5th Street next year. The sewer line on 5th Street is 10-12 ft. deep. An estimate and additional details surrounding this project will be secured from the engineer and then shared with Council.
Safety Director: Director Regis said about 70 units participated in the Christmas Parade on November 25. Many children took advantage of the ice-skating rink that was available before the parade.
The Police and EMS Departments were praised for their quick response to a call that a 1 year-old baby was in cardiac arrest. The baby did survive.
Director Regis asked Council’s permission to contract with Frio and Stack Auction Services in Wheeling, WV, regarding conducting an auction in the spring for all city departments. The auction will include items such as vehicles, furniture and equipment that are not being used or no longer needed. The auction would take place at either the EMS Lot on Zane Highway or down near the old city garage. Mr. Schramm made a motion and Mr. Regis seconded to allow Safety Director Regis to arrange an auction with Frio and Stack Auction Services for unneeded city equipment. A roll call vote was heard with Schramm, Regis, Hunker, Shrodes, Armstrong, Rodgers and Burns voting yes. The motion carried.
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: Two Finance Committee Meetings were held since the last Council Meeting. Minutes of these meetings are filed with these Council Minutes. Discussion centered on the Audit and General Fund revenue.
Street: No report.
Ordinance: No report.
Sewer/Sidewalk: No report.
Code Administration: No report.
Safety: No report.
Service: No report.
Cemetery: Mr. Burns reported that he constructed a “Riverview” sign and installed it on the front of the storage building at Riverview cemetery. His complete report is included with these minutes.
Public Relations: Mrs. Armstrong reported there is a group interested in raising funds to purchase new Christmas decorations for the city.
Real Estate: No report.
Utility: No report.
Income Tax: No report.
Citizens To Be Heard:
Richard Hord, 915 Virginia Street, asked if potholes could be filled on the 900 block of South 10th Street. The Mayor said crews will begin cold-patching potholes soon. Regarding the retirement of Auditor Randall, the Republican Committee will be responsible for her replacement. There is still no information on the future of the former Staffilino property. Mr. Hord noted that recent festivities were well attended in the city. When asked about the major accomplishments for the city in 2022, the Mayor replied: 1) replaced 5 water line, 2) paved streets amounting to almost 1 million dollars 3) working to secure the relocation of the Force Main, 4) developed plans to make the Water Extension Line a reality, and 5) the demolition of many properties in town. Next year the Mayor hopes to do more demolition and paving, and complete the Force Main and Water Extension Line. The goal is to continue to move forward and serve the citizens of Martins Ferry. Mr. Hord thanked Council for permitting him to participate and ask questions during the meetings.
Ordinances and Resolutions:
An Ordinance Amending Various Parking Fines Set By City Ordinance.
This Ordinance was given a second reading. Mr. Hunker made a motion to suspend the rules. Mr. Rodgers seconded the motion. A roll call vote was heard with Hunker, Shrodes, Armstrong, Rodgers, Burns, Schramm, and Regis voting yes. The motion carried. Mr. Regis made a motion and Mr. Burns seconded to pass the Ordinance as read. A roll call vote was heard with Regis, Hunker, Shrodes, Armstrong, Rodgers, Burns and Schramm voting yes. The motion carried. Bags will be placed on broken parking meters. Funding will need to be found to replace old meters since new meters cost about $2,000.
An Ordinance To Make Temporary Appropriations For The Expenses Of The City Of Martins Ferry, State of Ohio, During The Fiscal Year Ending December 31, 2023 And Declaring An Emergency.
This ordinance was given a second reading. Mr. Regis made a motion to suspend the rules. Mr. Hunker seconded the motion. A roll call vote was heard with Regis, Hunker, Shrodes, Armstrong, Rodgers, Burns and Schramm voting yes. The motion carried. Mr. Rodger made a motion to pass the Ordinance as read. Mr. Schramm seconded the motion. Mr. Regis made a motion to amend the Police Department Budget Line Item 001-011-5210-10120 (Police Wages-Other) to $130,000. This will make the Budget Line $160,000. This was given to Council by the Auditor as part of the temporary budget. Motion was seconded by Mr. Hunker. A roll call vote was heard with Regis, Hunker, Shrodes, Armstrong, Rodgers, Burns and Schramm voting yes. The motion to amend the Police Department Budget Line Item was declared passed A roll call vote was heard with Rodgers, Burns, Schramm, Regis, Hunker, Shrodes and Armstrong voting yes. Motion carried and this ordinance was declared passed as amended.
Motion was made by Mr. Regis to suspend the 72 hour rule. Motion was seconded by Mr. Hunker. A roll call vote was heard with Regis, Hunker, Shrodes, Armstrong, Rodgers, Burns and Schramm voting yes. The motion carried.
An Ordinance Directing the Allocation of Net Income Tax Revenue Received to Various Funds beginning January 1, 2023.
This Ordinance was given a first reading. Motion was made by Mr. Rodgers and seconded by Mr. Schramm to suspend the rules. A roll call vote was heard with Rodgers, Burns, Schramm, Regis, Hunker, Shrodes and Armstrong voting yes. The motion carried. Mr. Hunker made a motion to pass the Ordinance as read. Mr. Burns seconded the motion. 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 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:
Since the land that the impound lot is to be built on belongs to the EMS, the Mayor asked Council if a certain percentage of the impound fees should be allotted to the EMS. It was decided to consult Mr. Stecker on this matter.
The next Council Meeting will be held on Wednesday, December 21, 2022 at 6:00 p.m. at the city building. The Mayor and Mrs. Armstrong will not be able to attend this meeting. Two additional Council meetings may have to be held before the end of the year.
Mr. Regis made a motion to note in the minutes that Council has received and accepted the payment of bills as noted in the Check Register, for January 1 through November 30, 2022. 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 note that Council has received and reviewed the financial reports for the previous month of November, 2022. Mr. Hunker seconded the motion. A roll call vote was heard with Schramm, Regis, Hunker, Shrodes, Armstrong, Rodgers and Burns voting yes. The motion carried.
Mr. Rodgers made a motion and Mr. Burns seconded, to note that Council has received and accepts a report of expenses paid in the previous month of November, 2022. A roll call vote was heard with Rodgers, Burns, Schramm, Regis, Hunker, Shrodes and Armstrong voting yes. The motion carried.
Mr. Shrodes requested a list from the Auditor of all the equipment and vehicles owned by the city.
Mr. Regis made a motion and Mr. Hunker seconded to accept the list of new hires for 2022 as submitted by the Service Director. A roll call vote was heard with Regis, Hunker, Shrodes, Armstrong, Rodgers, Burns and Schramm voting yes. The motion carried.
Mr. Regis asked Council’s permission to permit Frank Papini to speak about a letter to Council from Kathie Brown, Director of Wheeling Health Right. Funding has been cut for the services Health Right offers to the residents of Belmont County. A couple, formerly of Martins Ferry, has offered to provide a matching grant of $20,000 yearly to Health Right over the next five years, if matched yearly by the $25,000 allocation from the Belmont County Commission, and $10,000 yearly each from the City of Martins Ferry and the City of St. Clairsville. The letter will be filed with these minutes. Health Right would like an answer by the end of January.
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.
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 5:57 p.m. with a salute to the flag.
The next regular meeting of the Martins Ferry Council will be held on Wednesday, December 21, 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, November 16, 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 had informed President Davis that he was unable to attend this meeting.
Minutes: Minutes of the October 30, 2022 Special Meeting and the November 2, 2022 Regular Council Meeting were approved as written.
Correspondence: There was no correspondence.
Reports of Officers of the City:
Mayor: Mayor Davies deferred part of his time to Ben Bintz, Vice-President of the Martins Ferry Aquatic Club. Mr. Bintz communicated to Council that the Aquatic Club and the Martins Ferry Recreation Center Pool is at a crossroads and if it is going to survive, needs financial support from Council. A brief history of the success of the Aquatic Club was presented. Recent problems with the pool were explained such as the filter system and pump system. Currently, the Aquatic Club is working with city officials on securing grants for some potentially long term possibilities for the Recreation Center and Pool. Mr. Regis scheduled a meeting on Tuesday, November 29 at 5:00 p.m. to discuss the future of the city pool. Council, the Park Board and other persons with specific knowledge of the pools workings will be asked to attend.
The Paving Projects for this year are almost complete. One block of Seabrights Lane still needs finished and hopefully can be completed this year if the weather cooperates.
Project Forward would like permission to close Hanover Street, from 4th Street to 5th Street and 5th Street from Carlisle Street to Walnut Street on Saturday, December 3, 2022, for Winterfest.
The Mayor said the city has road salt stored and is ready for snowy weather.
Service Director: Mr. Sutak scheduled a tentative Post Audit Exit Meeting with the State Auditors as requested by Council for Tuesday, December 6 at 10:00 a.m. He will contact the Auditors to confirm this date and email everyone a confirmation.
Mr. Hunker asked if there has been any word on who owns the property that St. Rt. 647 runs through. Mr. Sutak said he has not heard from Mr. Delguzzo but will send him an email asking for an update.
Mr. Sutak asked Council to approve the Ordinance regarding the ODOT Municipal Bridge Inspection Program. This is to place the city back into a contract for state bridge inspections.
The Temporary Budget needs passed before the end of the year so it can be in place for the first 3 months of next year before the annual appropriations are passed.
Mr. Sutak explained the process of replacing Auditor Randall who will be retiring on December 31, 2022.
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: A Finance Committee Meeting was scheduled for Wednesday, November 23, 2022, at 9:00 a.m. in the Mayor’s Office.
Street: No report.
Ordinance: No report.
Sewer/Sidewalk: No report.
Code Administration: No report.
Safety: Mr. Sutak has not heard anything regarding the new cruisers. A cruiser that had mechanical problems will hopefully be back in service next week.
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:
Richard Hord, 915 Virginia Street, complimented the City for paving Pearl Street and asked if South Broadway to Etna Street could be considered for paving. Mr. Rodgers will make a note of this section for possible paving next year. Mr. Hord asked if potholes could be patched on the 900 block of South 10th Street. The Mayor said when the weather cooperates, the city tries to patch as many potholes as possible. Mr. Hord was told that it was just a rumor that WVU Medicine was buying East Ohio Regional Hospital. There were no updates on activity with the former Staffilino building, the former Dollar General space or the PNC Bank Building. Mr. Hord thanked the city and everyone who voted for the Library Levy which passed at the last election.
Ordinances and Resolutions:
An Ordinance Amending Various Parking Fines Set By City Ordinance.
This Ordinance was given a first reading. This Ordinance will go to a second reading.
An Ordinance For The City Of Martins Ferry To Enter Into The ODOT Municipal Bridge Inspection Program.
This Ordinance was given a first reading. Motion was made by Mr. Regis to suspend the rules. 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. Motion was made by Mr. Schramm to pass the Ordinance as read. Motion was seconded by Hunker. A roll call vote was heard with Schramm, Regis, Hunker, Shrodes, Armstrong, and Rodgers 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. Hunker. A roll call vote was heard with Regis, Hunker, Shrodes, Armstrong, Rodgers, and Schramm voting yes. The motion carried.
An Ordinance To Make Temporary Appropriations For The Expenses Of The City Of Martins Ferry, Ohio, During The Fiscal Year Ending December 31, 2023 And Declaring An Emergency.
This ordinance was given a first reading. This Ordinance will go to a second reading.
AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE CITY OF MARTINS
FERRY TO ENTER INTO A CONTRACT FOR THE ZANE
HIGHWAY 12” WATERLINE CONNECTION TO AETNA
STREET BOOSTER STATION AND DECLARING AN
EMERGENC
Miscellaneous Business:
Mr. Shrodes thanked the Mayor, Service Director, Terry Wildman, and everyone on the Committee for the outstanding dedication service of the Veteran’s Memorial at Riverview Cemetery.
Mr. Regis made a motion to approve the closure of Hanover Street, from 4th Street to 5th Street and 5th Street from Carlisle Street to Walnut Street on Saturday, December 3, 2022, for Winterfest sponsored by Project Forward. 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.
Mr. Schramm reported he received a bid of $11,662 for a tractor for the cemetery.
Mr. Shrodes made a motion to go into Executive Session under Ohio Revised Code 121.22, Section G4 to discuss contract negotiations. Motion was seconded by Mrs. Armstrong. A roll call vote was heard with Shrodes, Armstrong, Rodgers, Schramm, Regis and Hunker voting yes. The motion carried.
Mr. Schramm made a motion to go out of Executive Session. Mr. Shrodes seconded the motion. A roll call vote was heard with Schramm, Regis, Hunker, Shrodes, Armstrong and Rodgers voting yes. The motion carried. Council was in Executive Session for 10 minutes.
Mr. Shrodes made a motion to excuse Mr. Burns from tonight’s meeting. Mr. Regis seconded the motion. After an affirmative voice vote, the motion carried.
Mr. Schramm made a motion to reflect Council has received reports from the Officers and Management, and to incorporate these reports into the minutes. Motion was seconded by Mr. Regis. After an affirmative voice vote, the motion passed.
Mr. Rodgers spoke to a citizen of Floral Valley regarding curb damage to his driveway after his road was paved. The Mayor doesn’t believe the paving company damaged the curb but that the curb was broke when the drain was put in. The Mayor has already spoken to this gentleman about this issue.
Mr. Schramm informed Mr. Sutak there was water coming up in the middle of Clinton Street, just above where the sinkhole was patched. A work order has been issued for this.
Mr. Hunker moved to adjourn, which was seconded by Mr. Shrodes. After an affirmative voice vote, the motion carried and the meeting was adjourned at 7:03 p.m. with a salute to the flag and a Happy Thanksgiving wish from President Davis.
The next regular meeting of the Martins Ferry Council will be held on Wednesday, December 7, 2022, at 6:00 p.m. at the Donald Myers Council Chambers.
___________________________________ ___________________________________ Kay H. McFarlan, Clerk of Council Kristine Davis, Council President
The City Of Martins Ferry will be closed at 11:30a on Friday the 23rd and Friday the 30th in observance of Christmas Eve & New Years Eve. Trash schedules those days should not be affected. The City and Offices will also be closed on Monday the 26th and Monday the 2nd in observance of Christmas Day & New Years Day. Trash schedules for those two days will be picked up the following day (Tuesday). We hope everyone has a Safe and Happy Holiday!
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
