The Martins Ferry City Council met in Regular Session on Wednesday, February 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 in chamber, followed by a prayer by the Clerk. Answering Roll Call were Bob Hunker, First Ward Council Member, Bruce Shrodes, Second Ward Council Member; Suzanne Armstrong, Third Ward Council Member; Rick Rodgers, Fourth Ward Council Member; James Schramm and Jack Regis, Council at Large Members. Tom Burns, Council at Large Member, informed President Davis that he was unable to attend this meeting.
Minutes: Minutes of the January 19, 2022 Council Meetings were approved as written.
Correspondence: There was no correspondence.
Reports of Officers of the City:
Mayor: The Mayor asked for an Executive Session toward the end of the meeting to talk about contract negotiations.
Recreation Center: The weights have been moved into the Weight Room. A former Sewing Room will be turned into a Cardio Weight Room. An estimate of $17,000 has been received to install cameras in and around the Recreation Center. These cameras will be monitored by the Police 24/7. If someone rents the Center, they will be given a “punch code” that can only be activated for the allotted rental time. The goal is to make enough revenue to pay the Center’s yearly utility bills which run $32,000-$36,000. Last month the center generated $2,700 in income. Income generating activities at the Center include: 2 batting cages, basketball tournaments, batting practices, basketball practice and soon the weight room will be open. Future activities include wrestling lessons and golf simulator. Currently, the city is looking for a Director for the Center. Betty Suto in the Mayor’s Office is taking payments and writing a receipt for rentals. The payments are taken to the Utility Office and are posted to the Recreation account.
To keep the city moving forward, revenue has to be generated. The deed to the former Rose Café has been received and needs to be recorded at the Court House. The Mayor would like to use this property as an Impound Lot. Approximate cost to renovate the site is $30,000 which includes fencing, cameras and gravel. A lot of the work can be done by city employees. The Mayor asked Council for a $30,000 loan to complete this project. Monies generated by this project can be used to pay back the loan.
The Mayor thanked Mr. Richard Hord for his help in getting Senior Services to sign an agreement with East Ohio Regional Hospital and Trinity Health Systems. There are now 3 hospitals serving Belmont County Senior Services.
With the impending snow and ice coming tomorrow, the Mayor said that 6-7 trucks are ready to plow and salt the roads. He asked that the citizens give the trucks room on the streets to work.
4K Industrial Park Property – The Mayor called ODNR (Ohio Department of Natural Resources) and the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency). Both of these agencies have Zero violations against the 4K Industrial Park Property. The city’s water supply has been tested for Radium and Chromium and the results are “not detected”. The Mayor wants the citizens to know that the water is safe and we are taking steps to keep it that way. The southern-most expansion well is being converted into a test well.
Meter Reading – Some citizens have had an “estimated” water usage reading for 5-6 years. These people have recently called in their first reading to the Utility Office and the bill was $300-$400. It is not known how much of this is an overage charge since the meter hasn’t been read for a long time. The Mayor asked Council to create a Resolution that would allow the city to charge residents currently with a large water bill, this one time only, the minimum amount, and henceforth require these customer to submit a reading every month to the Utility Office. The Mayor is afraid if this action isn’t taken, these people will stop sending in their readings. Also, people may use excessive amounts of water but call in a low reading. To monitor this, a water department employee will be sent once every three months, to every house with a dead meter, to personally read the water meter. Another Resolution will be needed to place a surcharge on those customers who refuse to submit a meter reading. If a customer cannot read their meter, an employee will be sent to their home to read it for them.
Service Director: Mr. Sutak met with OMEGA (Ohio Mid-Eastern Governments Association) to discuss different types of grants and funding. Funding is aggressively being pursued for water, sewer, and recreation projects. A Historic Restoration Grant is being sought to restore the fountain in the Park. Mr. Sutak said grant searching is very competitive and every city is looking for funding.
Mr. Regis asked if a grant could be secured to make the city building, specifically Council Chambers, handicap assessable. Many people have expressed their desire to attend Council Meetings but are hindered by the stairs to the second floor. Mr. Sutak said he has been looking into this type of grant. Mr. Shrodes said the Service Committee has also discussed this matter.
Mr. Schramm asked Mr. Sutak to look at a broken plastic pipe on the alley side of Economy Auto Sales. An orange cone has been placed on top of the hole so people will not step in the hole and fall.
A Town Hall Meeting will be held on Sunday, February 6, 2022 at 7:00 p.m. at the Recreation Center. The Mayor wants to talk about what has been done in the last two years and what the city wants to do in the next 2 years. Special Interest Groups will not be permitted to speak at this meeting.
Mr. Shrodes asked Mr. Sutak to explore grants to fund generators for the City Building, especially for the Police Station and the Auditors Office.
Mr. Rodgers asked about the guidelines for the American Rescue Act money. Mr. Sutak said the money can be used for water, sewer and broadband upgrades. The city will use this money to separate storm and sewer lines, replace water lines, and install catch basins for water run-off.
Mr. Regis praised the Water Department Employees who fixed the water break in Floral Valley.
Auditor: Financial Reports for January were distributed to Council. Auditor Randall suggested taking the $17,000 for the cameras at the Recreation Center from the Permanent Improvement Fund.
Safety Director: Director Regis asked Council’s permission to sell a Chevy Cruze used for transporting patients. This vehicle has a bad transmission and several thousand miles on it.
After the next Council Meeting, Director Regis would like to meet with the Ordinance and Safety Committees to talk about Fire and EMS Training for members. Because of worker shortages, many volunteer members “run” with other Fire and EMS Departments. These members ask for additional training from Martins Ferry. The agreement has been, if the member “runs” with other departments, then the training cost is split between all departments (i.e. if someone runs for Martins Ferry as well as 4 other departments, then Martins Ferry will pay 20% of training costs and the member has to get the rest of the cost from the other department they run with or pay the rest out of their own pocket.) Currently, Director Regis feels the department’s bylaws need to be clearer on this issue. He asks Council to create an Ordinance that says if a member of Martins Ferry Fire/EMS Department belongs to others Fire/EMS Departments, Martins Ferry will only pay a portion of the training relative to the number of departments the member serves. Director Regis also asks that the Ordinance contains ways to recoup the costs of training if a volunteer doesn’t take the training seriously or drops out. He would also like the Volunteers, after having extensive training, to be held to a five year commitment to the city.
An Assistance to Fire Fighters Grant has been submitted for $500,000 to cover new air packs, new hydrant connections, turn-out gear and an automatic hose roller.
Improvements to the EMS Building include: patching drywall, painting, and new flooring. New furniture will also be purchased.
Billing is now being done every 3rd day which results in quicker payments to the 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 informed Mr. Regis that a meeting will be needed soon to talk about contract negotiations with the Police Department.
Street: No report.
Ordinance: Mr. Shrodes asked Council Members to review Ordinance 107.05 Notification of Discussion of Specific Types of Public Business for any changes that may be needed. This Ordinance permits a person to request to be notified of all meetings at which any specific type of public business is scheduled to be discussed. Mr. Shrodes would like to update this Ordinance regarding notification methods.
Sewer/Sidewalk: No report.
Code Administration: No report.
Safety: No report.
Service: No report.
Cemetery: Mr. Burns notified President Davis that he would be scheduling a Cemetery Meeting at the next Council Meeting.
Public Relations: Mr. Rodgers said the Committee met on January 25 at 9:30 a.m. to discuss the agreement between Belmont County Senior Services and Wheeling Hospital. Mr. Rodgers spoke to Lisa Kazmirski, Director of Senior Services and she informed him that an agreement would be forthcoming. It was reported today that an agreement had been reached with East Ohio Regional Hospital and Trinity Health Systems.
Real Estate: No report.
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, reiterated that he was at the Commissioners Meeting earlier in the day and the Commissioners announced they reached agreements with East Ohio Regional Hospital and Trinity Health Systems to provide services to Belmont County Senior Centers. East Ohio Regional Hospital has also partnered with Belmont College to provide training and services to meet the needs of health care providers. Mr. Hord was told that asbestos needs to be removed from the former Curley residence before it can be demolished. He also complimented the city workers on the fine job they did removing the snow from the roads during a recent snow storm.
Ordinances and Resolutions:
Mr. Hunker made a motion to suspend the 72-Hour Rule. Mr. Regis seconded the motion. A roll call vote was heard with Hunker, Shrodes, Armstrong, Rodgers, Schramm, and Regis voting yes. The motion carried.
An Ordinance Creating A Charge For Water Capital Projects and Removing The Water Debt Charge That Has Been Paid Off Beginning February 1, 2022.
This Ordinance was given a First Reading. Motion was made by Mr. Rodgers to suspend the rules. Mr. Shrodes seconded the motion. A roll call vote was heard with Rodgers, Schramm, Regis, Hunker, Shrodes and Armstrong voting yes. The motion carried. Motion was made by Mr. Schramm to pass the Ordinance as read. Mr. Regis seconded the motion. 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.
Mr. Hunker made a motion to suspend the 72-Hour Rule. Mr. Shrodes seconded the motion. A roll call vote was heard with Hunker, Shrodes, Armstrong, Rodgers, Schramm, and Regis voting yes. The motion carried.
An Ordinance specifying Utility Rates for the City of Martins Ferry in effect as of February 1, 2022. This Ordinance was given a First 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, and Schramm voting yes. The motion carried. Motion was made by Mr. Schramm to pass the Ordinance as read. Motion was seconded by Mr. Shrodes. 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.
AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE CITY OF MARTINS
FERRY TO ENTER INTO A CONTRACT FOR THE ZANE
HIGHWAY 12” WATERLINE CONNECTION TO AETNA
STREET BOOSTER STATION AND DECLARING AN
EMERGENC
Miscellaneous Business:
Mr. Schramm made a motion to allow the First Christian Church to close Zane Highway from Jefferson Street to Monroe Street in order to have a Car Show on May 21, 2022 from 3:30 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. A Fire Lane must be maintained. The rain date is May 22. Motion was seconded by Mr. Hunker. A roll call vote was heard with Schramm, Regis, Hunker, Shrodes, Armstrong, and Rodgers 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 made a motion to appropriate $17,000 for cameras, in and around the Recreation Center, from the Permanent Improvement Fund. The motion was seconded by Mr. Schramm. A roll call vote was heard with Regis, Hunker, Shrodes, Armstrong, Rodgers, and Schramm voting yes. The motion carried.
The Mayor asked Mr. Kelly to take off the bottom of one of the dead meters to inspect what kind of batteries were being used. It was found to use two double-A batteries that are soldered in place. Batteries have been ordered and city employees are going to try and fix the broken meters. The batteries will arrive next week and an effort will be made to fix the broken meters. Some new meters will still have to be purchased but the Mayor is hopeful that some of the broken meters can be fixed.
Mr. Schramm made a motion to allow the Safety Director to accept bids for the sale of the Chevy Cruze by the EMS. Motion was seconded by Mr. Rodgers. A roll call vote was heard with Schramm, Regis, Hunker, Shrodes, Armstrong, and Rodgers voting yes. The motion carried.
Mr. Hunker made a motion to allow a one-time charge of the minimum bill, to correct bills with high overages from estimated bills now being called in. Motion was seconded by Mr. Regis. A roll call vote was heard with Hunker, Shrodes, Armstrong, Rodgers, Schramm, and Regis voting yes. The motion carried.
Mr. Regis made a motion to allow the Administration to charge a surcharge to residents who refuse to call in their meter readings or make arrangements for their meter readings. Motion was seconded by Schramm. A roll call vote was heard with Regis, Hunker, Shrodes, Armstrong, Rodgers, and Schramm voting yes. The motion carried.
Mr. Shrodes made a motion to go into Executive Session under Ohio Revised Code 121-22, G4. for Contract Negotiations. Mr. Regis seconded the motion. A roll call vote was heard with Shrodes, Armstrong, Rodgers, Schramm, Regis and Hunker voting yes. The motion carried.
Motion was made by Mr. Regis and seconded by Mr. Hunker to go out of Executive Session. A roll call vote was heard with Regis, Hunker, Shrodes, Armstrong, Rodgers, and Schramm voting yes. The motion carried.
Mr. Regis made a motion for Council to give a vote of support to the Mayor to use Eastman and Smith, LTD, Attorneys at Law, with the retainer of $5,000 being funded by Enterprise Funds. A roll call vote was heard with Regis, Hunker, Shrodes, Armstrong, Rodgers, and Schramm voting yes. The motion carried.
Mr. Rodgers made a motion to excuse Mr. Burns from tonight’s meeting. Mrs. Armstrong seconded the motion. After an affirmative voice vote, the motion passed.
Mr. Regis made a motion that Council approve the negotiated one-year police contract. Mrs. Armstrong seconded the motion. A roll call vote was heard with Regis, Hunker, Shrodes, Armstrong, Rodgers, and Schramm voting yes. The motion was declared passed.
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.
___________________________________ ___________________________________ Kay H. McFarlan, Clerk of Council Kristine Davis, Council President
The Martins Ferry City Council met in Regular Session on Wednesday, January 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 in chamber, followed by a prayer by the Clerk. Answering Roll Call were Bob Hunker, First Ward Council Member, Bruce Shrodes, Second Ward Council Member; Suzanne Armstrong, Third Ward Council Member; Rick Rodgers, Fourth Ward Council Member; James Schramm and Jack Regis, Council at Large Members. Tom Burns, Council at Large Member, informed President Davis that he was unable to attend this meeting.
Minutes: Minutes of the January 5, 2022 Council Meetings were approved as written.
Correspondence: There was no correspondence.
Reports of Officers of the City:
Mayor: Regarding the recent snow storm, Mayor Davies thanked the city employees who worked 32 hours straight to keep the roads clear. During this time, there were no vehicle accidents reported by the police department.
The gym at the Recreation Center is rented every day in January and every weekend in February. Dr. Estock opened his office at the Center on Monday.
A letter, asking for final payment, was received from the Engineer who put in the 12” water line on South Zane Highway. The water line is working fine, but the Mayor and Council are not happy with the condition of paving job. A letter was sent to the Paving Company about the condition of the job. The Paving Company thought it was a great job. The Mayor would like to get the EPA involved since they provided the money on a forgivable loan.
The Mayor met with Eastern Ohio Regional Wastewater Authority (EORWA) regarding the extra surcharge of $11.38 added to customer’s bills that have an estimated reading. These estimated readings are due to broken water meters. The city ordered new meters in July but the company is unable to fill the order because of supply issues. Letters are being sent to all customers saying if an “E” (for estimated) is on your bill, you will need to read the meter and submit this reading to the Utility Office before the end of the month to avoid the extra EORWA charge. The city’s website will soon contain instructions on how to read the water meters as well as a form to submit the reading to the Utility Office. If someone is unable to read their meter, personnel from the Water Department will be available to go to the customer’s house and read it for them. Mr. Sutak asked Council and the citizens to be patient while the employees work through this situation. Because the city is taking this course of action to fix this problem, EORWA has agreed to omit the surcharge until the June 1st billing.
The Mayor asked Council to create an Ordinance to place the Water Debt money into the Water Capital Projects Fund that would provide for future upgrades to the Water Plant and Water System.
Service Director: Another batting cage has been ordered and will be arriving soon at the Recreation Center. Time slots will be available for the public to sign up to use the batting cages. Mr. Sutak is working with a company to place a rubberized flooring in the weight room. Membership fees are being considered. Money generated by the Center helps pay utilities and maintenance for the building. Open gym days for kids, including a meal, are being planned.
Another 50 tons of road salt will be ordered. The city has already used over 100 tons of salt this year.
A Town Hall Meeting has been scheduled for Sunday, February 6, 2022 at 7:00 p.m. at the Recreation Center. Some topics that will be discussed include: Improvements to the Recreation Center, Splash Water Park for the Pool Area, and Banners for Advertising Businesses and Organizations.
Safety Director: Director Regis reported the Fire Department had their Annual Meeting on December 11. Tom Kelly was re-elected as Fire Chief and Ron Hilton was elected as Assistant Chief. The Department battled a structure fire yesterday. There were no injuries but the family’s pet died in the blaze.
There were four EMS calls during the recent snow storm and the new 4-wheel drive ambulance was very useful during that time. Director Regis would like to “clean up” the EMS lot. He will speak to the EMA about relocating the Mass Casualty Trailer to St. Clairsville. The tires are dry rotted and most of the equipment inside is expired. Council’s permission was requested to sell 3 old ambulances that have been taken out of service.
Director Regis asked Council for permission to use the City Park (and blocking off part of Zane Highway and Grant Avenue while the Festival is open) on August 3-6 for Betty Zane Days. Also requested was the use of 4th Street in Front of the Ladder Station for the Annual Fire Department’s Water Battle on August 6.
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: Mr. Shrodes reported the Committee met on January 12, 2022 to discuss the Ordinance clarifying the position of Deputy Auditor and the monthly salary. The committee decided to recommend that Council pass this Ordinance. In the future, the committee urged Council and the Administration to have all ordinances brought to the committee for discussion, unless in an emergency. Minutes of this meeting will be filed with these Council Minutes.
Sewer/Sidewalk: No report.
Code Administration: No report.
Safety: No report.
Service: No report.
Cemetery: No report.
Public Relations: Later in the meeting, Mr. Rodgers scheduled a Public Relations Meeting for Tuesday, January 25 at 9:30 a.m.
Real Estate: No report.
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 if Martins Ferry would consider creating a Walking/Biking Trail. The Mayor said most of the city’s land is being utilized. The school does have a track that can be utilized by the public. Mr. Hord asked for an update regarding the relationship between Senior Services and East Ohio Regional Hospital. The Belmont County Commissioners control the operations of Senior Services. The Mayor did not know why the Commissioners have not moved forward on establishing a relationship with EORH. Mr. Hord was told that the Administration has received a report from the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) regarding operations at the Austin Masters Plant. Austin Masters has corrected the four findings that were found. The Water Department tests the water daily and a test well has been installed as a safe guard. Nothing is definite yet on what might occupy the former Staffilino Building.
Kyle Frye, 58940 Glens Run Road, Martins Ferry, asked Council about purchasing property, adjacent to his property, owned by the city. This purchase would enable him to add an addition to his home. Council referred this to the Real Estate Committee.
Ordinances and Resolutions:
An Ordinance Clarifying The Position Of Deputy Auditor And Establishing The Monthly Salary Therefore, Effective January 15, 2019.
This Ordinance was given a third reading. Motion was made by Mr. Schramm and seconded by Mr. Shrodes to pass this Ordinance as read. Mr. Stecker said State Auditors requested this Ordinance to clarify the previous Ordinance. A roll call vote was heard with Schramm, Regis, Hunker, Shrodes, Armstrong, and Rodgers voting yes. The motion carried.
AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE CITY OF MARTINS
FERRY TO ENTER INTO A CONTRACT FOR THE ZANE
HIGHWAY 12” WATERLINE CONNECTION TO AETNA
STREET BOOSTER STATION AND DECLARING AN
EMERGENC
Miscellaneous Business:
Mr. Regis made a motion to reflect Council has received reports from the Officers and Management, and to incorporate these reports into the minutes. Motion was seconded by Mr. Rodgers. After an affirmative voice vote, the motion passed.
Mr. Hunker made a motion to roll-over the charge for the water debt to Fund 107 going forward for Capital Improvements. Motion was seconded by Mr. Rodgers. A roll call vote was heard with Hunker, Shrodes, Armstrong, Rodgers, Schramm, and Regis voting yes.
Mr. Stecker will prepare an Ordinance stating that the water debt charge is to be rolled over to Fund 107 for Capital Improvements.
Mr. Schramm made a motion to excuse Mr. Burns from tonight’s meeting. Mr. Regis seconded the motion. After an affirmative voice vote, the motion passed.
Mr. Regis made a motion to permit the Fire Department to use the City Park for Betty Zane Days, August 3-6, 2022, and to close part of Zane Highway and Grant Avenue when the Festival is in operation. Also, to grant permission to close 4th Street, from Hickory Street to Locust Street on August 6 to allow the Fire Department to hold their Annual Water Battle. Motion was seconded by Mr. Schramm. After an affirmative voice vote, the motion passed.
Mayor Davies asked Mr. Stecker to respond, in writing, to Eastern Ohio Regional Wastewater Authority regarding the city’s plan with water meter readings.
Mr. Regis made a motion to allow the Safety Director to advertise for sealed bids to sell 3 ambulances. Motion was seconded by Mr. Shrodes. A roll call vote was heard with Regis, Hunker, Shrodes, Armstrong, Rodgers, and Schramm voting yes. The motion carried.
Mr. Rodgers scheduled a Public Relations Meeting for Tuesday, January 25, 2022 at 9:30 a.m. to discuss drafting a letter to the Belmont County Commissioners regarding Senior Services contracting and utilizing the services of East Ohio Regional Hospital as well as Wheeling Hospital. The Commissioners have repeatedly said they do not have an exclusive contract with Wheeling Hospital but it is the only hospital being used at this time.
Because Council Members have started a new term, each member must complete the Sunshine Law Training on-line. President Davis will send each member an email with a link to the training.
Mr. Rodgers asked if the Code Administrator could begin citing homeowners for not clearing snow from their sidewalks. Mr. Shrodes said this could create a hardship for elderly residents. The Mayor said if he enforced this ordinance on businesses, then he would have to enforce it on everyone. Homeowners and Businesses are responsible to keep their sidewalks clear of snow and debris.
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.
___________________________________ ___________________________________ Kay H. McFarlan, Clerk of Council Kristine Davis, Council President
The city administration will be holding a Town Hall meeting for our citizens, weather permitting, on Sunday February 6, 2022 at 7 pm at the Rec Center in town. This will give the citizens the opportunity to get any questions about our meter issues answered, along with anything else you may have questions or concerns on.
The City will be Closed in observance of Martin Luther King Jr Day. The sanitation department will be a day behind in trash pick up for this week. Any issues please contact the Utility Office 740-633-6151
The Martins Ferry City Council met in Regular Session on Wednesday, January 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 in Chamber, followed by a prayer by the Clerk. Answering Roll Call were Bob Hunker, First Ward Council Member, Bruce Shrodes, Second Ward Council Member; Suzanne Armstrong, Third Ward Council Member; Rick Rodgers, Fourth Ward Council Member; Tom Burns and Jim Schramm, Council at Large Members. Mr. Jack Regis, Council at Large Member informed President Davis that he was unable to attend this meeting.
All Council Members were sworn into office by Mayor John Davies before tonight’s Council Meeting except Mr. Regis who was absent.
Minutes: Minutes of the December 23, 2021 Special Council Meetings were approved with the following correction: On page 2, instead of “A Resolution for 2021 Transfers To Be Approved By Council” it should read “Approval of 2021 Transfers By Council”.
Correspondence: There was no correspondence.
President Davis thanked everyone for running for office this year and expressed her appreciation for Council working together for the betterment of the city. She encouraged everyone to refresh themselves with Martins Ferry Code 111 that deals with the responsibilities of Council.
Mrs. Armstrong made a motion to re-hire Kay McFarlan as the Council Clerk. Mr. Rodgers seconded the motion. A roll call vote was heard with Armstrong, Rodgers, Burns, Schramm, Hunker and Shrodes voting yes. The motion carried.
Mr. Burns made a motion to elect Mr. Rodgers President Pro-Tempore. Mr. Schramm seconded the motion. A roll call vote was heard with Burns, Schramm, Hunker, Shrodes, Armstrong and Rodgers voting yes. The motion carried.
President Davis informed Council that they should have received a Financial Disclosure Form through email or paper correspondence. The filing deadline is Monday, May 16, 2022.
Reports of Officers of the City:
Mayor: Mayor Davies reported on the following Departments: Water Department – Spare motors were purchased for every pump house in the city. If a motor would fail, another one could be immediately installed insuring no disruption of water to citizens. The Scada System was also upgraded with a camera so if the system fails, the camera is activated and the operator can see the activity of the tanks. This is an extra precaution of safety for the water system. Two test wells have been drilled near the old water works building to use as a safe guard in the event of contamination. The water department uses chlorine gas in the purification of the water. The city is going to change to liquid chlorine since the chlorine gas price has increased 30% this year.
Street Department – A sink hole has developed on Luke Road due to a culvert collapse. The Mayor hope to run a new 42” line beginning at St. Myers Terrace down to the creek. Boxes for road salt have been installed on three plow trucks in anticipation of snow at the end of this week.
Recreation Center – Improvements to the Recreation Center are 95% finished. A Physical Therapist tenant will be moving into the building sooner than expected, possibly next week. Rubber mats are needed for the weight room. The batting cage is up and the High School Girls Softball Team used it today. Other income generating opportunities for the Recreation Center are being explored.
Because of safety concerns, Mr. Burns thanked the Mayor for the temporary shut-off valve on Grant Street.
Due to a higher volume of people using the Recreation Center, Mrs. Armstrong inquired about liability issues, especially since the pool still had water in it during the winter months. The Mayor said all the doors leading to the pool are secure.
Mayor Davies told Mr. Rodgers that the furnace in his office will hopefully be repaired soon. The temperature has reached a low of 61 degrees.
Clarification was given to Mr. Shrodes on the appropriation of the $25,000 from the General Fund to the Recreation Fund.
The wall in Riverview Cemetery is collapsing. Council agreed to allow the Mayor to use the sandstone brick, salvaged from the house that was demolished on Center Street, to rebuild the wall.
The city has been trying to get new water meters but the meter companies are unable to obtain them. Eastern Ohio Regional Wastewater Authority is now charging customers an additional $11 more for an estimated reading. Mayor Davies proposed going with a flat water rate or raise the minimum usage rate. Council suggested contacting the city’s Law Director for guidance. Also, Mr. Shrodes set a combined meeting of the Service Committee and Utility Committee for Thursday, January 13 at 5:30 p.m. to discuss this matter.
Service Director: Mr. Sutak expounded on the improvements to the Recreation Center. The restrooms have new tile and sinks. Green turf was acquired for the batting cage and a rubber “home plate” mat will be purchased. A rubber matting will be purchased for the weight room to protect the floor and the weights. There has been an inquiry on renting space for yoga classes. The Recreation Center is rented out every day in January.
Mr. Sutak plans to sell banners advertising local businesses in the City and Valley. The banners will be sold the first year and then a yearly “rent” fee will be charged thereafter if the business still wants the banner displayed inside the gym.
The Mayor said the Recreation Center improvement are two-fold: 1) it give the citizens someplace to go for recreation and 2) hopefully the center can generate $32,000 of income or more to cover the cost of utilities which then would “free up” $32,000 in the General Fund to use for other projects. The goal is to “break even” and provide a service to the citizens of Martins Ferry. Mayor Davies praised and thanked the diverse workforce for all their hard work in getting the center improvements completed. A future goal is to have an “open gym day” for the youth, including serving a meal.
Mr. Sutak distributed a Permanent Improvement Debt Pay Back Schedule to Council and reviewed some of the items. A copy of this schedule will be included with these minutes.
Safety Director: No report.
Auditor: Monthly Financial Reports were distributed to Council. Auditor Randall explained the temporary end-of-year appropriations to Council. She also asked Council to approve two purchase orders that were not approved before the items/services were acquired. Purchase Orders include: 1) $4,841.54 for Northern Panhandle Pipe and Supply, Inc. for 2 inch Sows for the water line project in West Lawn and 2) $6,513 for Panhandle Cleaning and Restoration for contract cleaning at 913 Monroe Street. This house had been approved by the CHP Grant Program with a revolving loan and had to be restored before it could be sold. Bel-O-Mar handles all the paperwork for this program. Knowing that the funds were available, Bel-O-Mar hired Panhandle Cleaning and Restoration, not realizing a purchase order was needed. Mr. Sutak was never notified of this action and will speak to the Bel-O-Mar representative about securing a purchase order in the future.
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: Mr. Shrodes set up an Ordinance Meeting for Wednesday, January 12 at 9:00 a.m. in Council Chambers.
Sewer/Sidewalk: No report.
Code Administration: No report.
Safety: No report.
Service: Mr. Shrodes set a combined meeting of the Service Committee and Utility Committee for Thursday, January 13 at 5:30 p.m. in Council Chambers.
Cemetery: No report but Mr. Burns agreed with the wall being re-built with the sandstone bricks salvaged from the demolition of the house on Center Street.
Public Relations: No report.
Real Estate: No report.
Utility: The Utility Committee will meet with the Service Committee on Thursday, January 13 at 5:30 p.m. in Council Chambers.
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 again about an updated on an agreement between East Ohio Regional Hospital and Belmont County Senior Services. The Mayor said this decision has to be made through Senior Services and the Belmont County Commissioners. Mr. Hord asked if it was known what might occupy the former Staffilino Chevrolet Property. The Mayor said he has heard rumors but nothing is definite as of yet. A couple of months ago Council had approved a request to move the Gazeebo on the corner of 5th and Hanover Street to the little park across the street in order to make way for a new business. The Mayor said the weather has delayed this move and nothing is known about what kind of business might occupy the space. It was noted that radon tests on the city’s water supply have continued to read non-undetectable. Mr. Hord was told that a vacation schedule for the city was listed on the City’s Website. He was also given a list of all members on Council Committees by President Davis.
Ordinances and Resolutions:
An Ordinance Clarifying The Position Of Deputy Auditor And Establishing The Monthly Salary Therefore, Effective January 15, 2019.
This Ordinance was given a second reading. This Ordinance will go to a third reading.
Miscellaneous Business:
Mr. Schramm made a motion to approve an expenditure of $6,513 to Panhandle Cleaning and Restoration for contract cleaning at 913 Monroe Street. Mrs. Armstrong seconded the motion. A roll call vote was heard with Schramm, Hunker, Shrodes, Armstrong, Rodgers and Burns voting yes. The motion carried.
Mr. Hunker made a motion to approve the payment of $4,841.54 to Northern Panhandle Pipe and Supply, Inc. for water pipes. Mr. Rodgers seconded the motion. A roll call vote was heard with Hunker, Shrodes, Armstrong, Rodgers, Burns, and Schramm voting yes. The motion carried.
Mr. Rodgers made a motion to excuse Mr. Regis from tonight’s meeting. Mr. Hunker seconded the motion. After an affirmative voice vote, the motion passed.
Mr. Schramm made a motion to appropriate $22,000 from the Recreation Fund. Motion was seconded by Mr. Shrodes. A roll call vote was heard with Schramm, Hunker, Shrodes, Armstrong, Rodgers and Burns voting yes. The motion carried.
Mr. Shrodes made a motion for Council to go into Executive Session under Ohio Revised Code 121-22, G1. for Contracts. Mr. Burns seconded the motion. A roll call vote was heard with Shrodes, Armstrong, Rodgers, Burns, Schramm and Hunker voting yes. The motion carried.
Mr. Schramm made a motion to go out of Executive Session. Mr. Burns seconded the motion. A roll call vote was heard with Schramm, Hunker, Shrodes, Armstrong, Rodgers and Burns voting yes. 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. Burns. After an affirmative voice vote, the motion passed.
Mrs. Armstrong moved to adjourn, which was seconded by Mr. Rodgers. After an affirmative voice vote, the meeting was adjourned with a salute to the flag.
The Martins Ferry City Council met is Special Session on Thursday, December 23, 2021, at 6:00 p.m., at the Donald Myers Council Chambers. The meeting was called to order by Council President Pro Tempore Rick Rodgers with the Pledge of Allegiance recited by those present in Chamber, followed by a prayer by the Clerk. Answering Roll Call were Bob Hunker, First Ward Council Member, Bruce Shrodes, Second Ward Council Member; Rick Rodgers, Fourth Ward Council Member; Tom Burns, Jim Schramm and Jack Regis, Council at Large Members. Suzanne Armstrong, Third Ward Council Member; informed President Davis and President Pro Tempore Rick Rodgers that she was unable to attend this meeting. Councilman Rodgers reserved his right to vote.
Minutes: Minutes of the November 17, 2021 Council Meeting were approved as written.
Correspondence: There was no correspondence.
Mr. Regis moved to change the agenda of the meeting and to read legislation first. 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.
Ordinances and Resolutions:
Mr. Regis made a motion to suspend the 72 Hour Rule for all legislation. Mr. Shrodes seconded the motion. A roll call vote was heard with Regis, Hunker, Shrodes, Rodgers, Burns and Schramm voting yes. The motion carried.
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.
This Ordinance was given a first reading. Mr. Hunker made a motion to suspend the rules. Mr. Burns seconded the motion. A roll call vote was heard with Hunker, Shrodes, Rodgers, Burns, Schramm, and Regis voting yes. The motion carried. Mr. Schramm made a motion to accept the Ordinance as read and Mr. Hunker seconded the motion. A roll call vote was heard with Schramm, Regis, Hunker, Shrodes, Rodgers and Burns voting yes. The motion carried and the Ordinance was declared passed.
An Ordinance to Make Temporary Appropriations For The Expenses of The City of Martins Ferry, State of Ohio, During The First Quarter of The Fiscal Year Ending December 31, 2022 and Declaring An Emergency.
This Ordinance was given a first 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, Rodgers, Burns and Schramm voting yes. The motion carried. Mr. Regis made a motion to pass the Ordinance as read and Mr. Burns seconded the motion. A roll call vote was heard with Regis, Hunker, Shrodes, Rodgers, Burns and Schramm voting yes. The motion carried and the Ordinances was declared passed
An Ordinance Clarifying The Position Of Deputy Auditor And Establishing The Monthly Salary Therefore, Effective January 15, 2019.
This Ordinance was given a first reading. This Ordinance will go to a second reading.
Approval of 2021 Transfers By Council : From the General Fund: Cemetery Fund: $ 20,000 EMS Fund: $ 40,000 General Fund To Street Fund for Truck Usage: $ 19,715 Recreation Fund: $ 25,000
Motion was made by Mr. Rodgers that these amounts be taken from the General Fund and placed in the appropriate listed funds. Mr. Hunker seconded the motion. A roll call vote was heard with Rodgers, Burns, Schramm, Regis, Hunker, and Shrodes voting yes. The motion carried and the Resolution was declared passed.
Reports of Officers of the City:
Mayor: Mayor Davies said the Water Department has been dealing with some water breaks. A waterline on West Lawn Avenue has been replaced. It is hoped that a waterline on Old Cadiz Road can be replaced before the end of the year.
Crews have been working on the Recreation Center. The Dining Room and Bathrooms have been remodeled. Lots of painting has been done and all the ceiling tile has been replaced. The tile floor in the hallway has been removed and will be replaced with an epoxy floor. The old sauna room is being converted into a weight room. The School District has donated the weights. A verbal agreement has been made to rent space to a Physical Therapy Physician three days a week. Batting cages have been erected. The Gym has been rented every weekend in January and February for Basketball Tournaments. Signs are being made saying that if a group damages anything in the building, the group will be banned from the building.
The Street Sweeper will be run in the business district tomorrow to remove the leaves and debris.
The Administration is again working on fixing the force main sewer line coming from the Lesco Pump Station. Once again, it is broke. The city has spent $100,000 on this line already this year. The Administration is waiting on details from Eastern Ohio Regional Wastewater Authority about hitting the side of the pump station in Floral Valley.
The city is still not able to get new water meters. The Administration has met with the Badger Company and an estimate was received but was higher than what the Mayor thought was originally discussed. Mayor Davies will contact them to discuss the estimate. Unfortunately Eastern Ohio Regional Wastewater Authority passed legislation that allows them to charge $5 or more per customer for estimated readings. The city wants to purchase analog meters because they can still be read by a water department employee if needed. A digital meter can’t be manually read.
Plans are being made to replace a few catch basins. The city has an ample amount of salt for the beginning of the winter season.
Service Director: Mr. Sutak said batting boxes are needed to help protect the grass carpet on the batting cages. Hourly rates for use of this equipment will soon be decided.
Martins Ferry did not get the Brick Grant which would have helped with creek problems. Only two entities in the State of Ohio received this grant. Mr. Sutak said a Nature Works grant was received this year. An application has been submitted for the State House Bill 168 to help with the direct water line to the hospital and a sewer project. The City is in the top 9 cities being considered for this grant.
Mr. Sutak reported that beginning this month, the water debt that is being taken out of the water operating line item is being reduced. This will help build up the water fund a little more. The Mayor would like to see the customer’s water bill stay the same and take the money that was designated for “water debt” be place into a Capital Outlay Line Item. That way if money is needed for a major project, there would be a reserve and customer rates might not have to be raised to fund the project. Mr. Regis asked that an Ordinance be prepared to clarify this request. Mr. Shrodes scheduled an Ordinance Meeting for January 4 at 5:30 p.m. to consider this matter.
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: Mr. Regis will set up a Finance and Audit Committee meeting sometime in January.
Street: No report.
Ordinance: Mr. Shrodes scheduled an Ordinance Meeting for Tuesday, January 4 at 5:30 p.m. in Council Chambers.
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: The Utility Committeemet on Tuesday, December 7 to discuss unpaid Utility Bills. Mr. Sutak informed the committee that there has been 216 delinquent Utility bills. At that time there were 30 outstanding bills that haven’t been paid. The Mayor said as of yesterday, there were 16 delinquent customers. Shut-Off notices have been sent out, along with the new termination guidelines. A copy of the new guidelines are attached to the committee meeting minutes which will be filed with these Council Minutes.
Income Tax: No report.
Citizens To Be Heard: President Pro Tempore Rodgers reminded citizens to limit their speaking to 5 minutes.
Richard Hord, 915 Virginia Street, asked the Mayor if an agreement has been reached between East Ohio Regional Hospital and Belmont County Senior Services. Mayor Davies has not heard anything from the Commissioners but they have assured him it’s not an exclusive deal but currently there is only one entity involved. Plans are not known about how the former Staffilino Chevrolet building will be used. When asked to list his proudest achievements for 2021, the Mayor replied the joint effort of Council, the Administration and the Employee Unions to work together. Council funded several demolition and infrastructure projects. Next year’s goal is focus on paving city streets and to continue replacing sewer and water lines. Mr. Hord asked Council to consider honoring Jim Nicholson for his years of service to the city. Attorney Nicholson will be closing his office at the end of the year.
Rob Reed, 701 North Lincoln Ave., Bridgeport, Ohio, reported his daughter was rudely treated recently by a city official when she asked for some documentation on the Austin Masters Company. The document requested was the response from Austin Masters on what the company was doing to be in compliance with the Martins Ferry City Ordinances. The Mayor gave Mr. Reed a copy of the letter received from Austin Master stating that the company was visited by Mayor Davies and DNR and they believe they are in compliance. Mr. Reed also asked the status of the water lines on the Washington Blvd. area. He installed a water filtration system in a house he owns on Washington Blvd. and when he recently took out the filter it was filled with mud. The Mayor didn’t know if there had been a water break in that area but he would check with Mr. Suto, Water Superintendent.
Beverly Reed, 98 – 5th Street, Bridgeport, Ohio, asked the Mayor to clarify the “Lesco Line” that he spoke about in his report. Mayor Davies said this is a forced main sewer line that is directed to Lesco only. The city doesn’t have any updates on Austin Masters Sewer line. The Mayor said Radon tests came back two days ago and it is the same level as it was previously which is non-detectable. Ms. Reed asked about the protocol for notices of public meetings. She was directed to check the city’s website where the codified ordinances are listed. Mr. Rodgers also said that his Ordinance Book in on his desk and she is welcome to come in and look through it. Ms. Reed said the Ohio River Concerned Citizens would like to continue the conversation of the water and air concerns at Austin Masters next year.
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. Shrodes made a motion to excuse Mrs. Armstrong from tonight’s meeting. Motion was seconded by Mr. Rodgers. After an affirmative voice vote, the motion passed.
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 City Building will be working 1/2 a day until 11:30am on Christmas Eve and closed on Monday the 27th in observance of Christmas Day. The trash will work their regular route the week of Christmas and be off at 11:30a also on the 24th and off the 27th. Trash pick up for Monday’s route will be done on Tuesday the 28th. The City Building will also be working 1/2 a day until 11:30am on New Years Eve and be closed on Monday January 3rd in observance of New Years Day. The trash schedule will also be the same that week, Monday’s route will be done on Tuesday the 4th and so on until caught up. Happy Holidays from the City Of Martins Ferry!
