The Martins Ferry City Council met in Regular Session on Wednesday, September 20, 2023, at 6:00 p.m., at the Donald Myers Council Chambers. The meeting was called to order by Council President Kristine Davis with the Pledge of Allegiance recited by those present in chamber, followed by a prayer by the Clerk. Answering Roll Call were Bob Hunker, First Ward Council Member, Bruce Shrodes, Second Ward Council Member; Suzanne Armstrong, Third Ward Council Member; Rick Rodgers, Fourth Ward Council Member; Tom Burns, James Agnew, and Jim Schramm, Council at Large Members.
Minutes: Minutes of the September 7, 2023 Council Meeting were approved as written.
Correspondence: The Walter Drane Company notified the Clerk that it’s time for the next update to the Codified Ordinances. The Clerk sent the requested material.
Reports of Officers of the City:
Mayor: Mayor Davies asked for Council’s approval for an upgrade to the Skadis Water System which will cost $196,000. This upgrade is an emergency. The system had another shut down yesterday. Payments can be made in 4 phases.
The line stop and fire hydrant on Carlisle Street/10th Street needs repaired at a cost of $37,000 and a permanent stop on the 20” line will cost $39,000. If this isn’t fixed, it will cause problems in the winter.
The Mayor asked for approval to award Cast and Baker the bid for the Street Paving jobs.
According to the EPA, trees need to be removed from around the Grandview Water Tank. An estimate of $5,400 was received from LaRoche Tree Service.
There will be no bonfire on 1st Street this year because of the danger it imposes on the City’s Salt Bin and parked vehicles nearby. The High School has been notified.
Curbside Clean-Up Day will be September 25-29, 2023. Items will be picked up on the customer’s regular collection day. A list will be published noting the items that cannot be collected. It was noted that people pick through the trash for metals and then leave piles of garbage everywhere. The Mayor asked Council to make a Resolution to prohibit people from rummaging through garbage set out for collection.
The city is looking for a person or company to pick up and haul salt to the city.
The Annual Trick or Treat event will be held on Tuesday, October 31, 2023, 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.
The After-School Program at the Recreation Center is going very well with over 50 kids attending daily. Donations or food and water have been received from the community.
The Mayor explained multiple problems plaguing the city’s aging Water Plant. The cost to upgrade the entire system will be between 5 and 6 million dollars. Multiple bids are being received. Upgrades can be done in stages. A gate will also be placed across the road next to the old pump house to restrict access to that area. No one should use that road except for city employees.
Service Director: Mr. Sutak said a lot of the adjustments and upgrades to the Water Plant will save money on utilities and other items. The Capital Projects Improvement Line item will help with the repair costs.
Mr. Sutak explained the construction process and the funding mechanisms for the Turf Care Sewer Line Project. He is also working with the hospital to get joint funding through Appalachian Grants to offer more programs at the Recreation Center.
Mr. Sutak asked Council to pass the Ordinance to provide special assessments to be levied on property taxes next year.
Safety Director: No report.
Auditor: Auditor Regis distributed his report to Council. He asked Council to make a decision on the future of the Police Dispatchers so his department can determine how to fund them. The Finance Committee will discuss the Police Dispatchers at their next meeting. Also, the future of the EMS dispatchers and the funding for the Recreation Center needs to be decided. Auditor Regis asked Council for a motion to approve two Purchase Orders and another motion to approve the check register that was distributed at the last meeting.
Law Director: No report.
Police Department: Chief Murphy reported his department, along with other Police Agencies, escorted the “Eyes of Freedom” display into Barnesville where it is being displayed at Barnesville Middle School. The “Eyes of Freedom” is a traveling memorial for a group of Marines that were killed in Iraq. He encouraged Council to take time to view the exhibit. The department was also asked to assist in the escort of the remains of a WWII soldier, discovered in New Guinea, to Wilson’s Funeral Home.
The on-line auction of the sale of equipment yielded $4,230. Impound Lot revenue remains at $4,385 and preparations are being made to forfeit 6 vehicles that have been abandoned at the lot. In the future, Chief Murphy would like this revenue to be put in certain budgetary line items to assist with the purchase of new cruisers and equipment.
Fire Department: No report.
Code Administrator: No report.
Park District: No report.
Water Department: No report.
Reports of Committees of Council:
Finance and Audit: Mr. Hunker set the next Finance Committee for Monday, September 25, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. in Council Chambers.
Street: The Street Committee met on Monday, September 18 and prepared a list of additional streets that need paved. The list was given to the Mayor and Service Director. Mr. Sutak asked Auditor Regis what was the amount of paving money left. Mr. Regis said he would get that figure to Mr. Sutak tomorrow.
Ordinance: The issue of separating the metal from the trash, especially on clean-up days, was referred to the Ordinance Committee. The reporter from The Times Leader was asked to note in the Trash Clean-Up Day article that metal should be separated from the garbage.
Sewer/Sidewalk: No report.
Code Administration: No report.
Safety: Mr. Schramm reported he is waiting for information from Director Regis before scheduling a meeting.
Service: No report.
Cemetery: No report.
Public Relations: No report.
Real Estate/Utility: No report.
Income Tax: The Town Hall Meeting is scheduled for Monday, October 16 at 6:00 p.m. in the Dining Area of the Recreation Center. Mr. Stecker has agreed to preside over this meeting. Mr. Stecker, Mrs. Armstrong, and Kailey Carpino (from The Times Leader) will meet on Wednesday, September 27 to prepare a “Question and Answer” type article for the newspaper. Mrs. Armstrong asked Council Members to consider attending this meeting and to also send her questions and answers that they would like to see in the article.
Citizens To Be Heard: President Davis reminded citizens to limit their speaking to 5 minutes.
Richard Hord, 915 Virginia Street, asked why Belmont County’s financial situation was doing well but the cities and towns in the County are struggling. The Mayor and Mr. Sutak said the County has different sources of revenue than cities or towns. Mr. Sutak elaborated on this question since he served as the County Auditor for many years. Mr. Hord thanked Mr. Shrodes for his service on Council. When asked if the Town Hall Meeting could also include a “Meet the Candidates” session, many Council Members felt this should be two separate meetings. Mr. Hord noted that Don Falbo, long-time barber in the city, will celebrate his 90th birthday on Friday.
Ordinances and Resolutions:
A Resolution Authorizing Mayor John Davies To Apply For, Accept, And Enter Into A Water Pollution Control Loan Fund (WPCLF) Agreement On Behalf Of The City Of Martins Ferry For Planning, Design And/Or Construction Of Wastewater Facilities; And Designating A Dedicated Repayment Source For The Loan.
This Resolution was given a first reading. Motion was made by Mr. Rodgers to suspend the rules. Motion was seconded by Mr. Schramm. A roll call vote was heard with Rodgers, Burns, Agnew, Schramm, Hunker, Shrodes, and Armstrong voting yes. The motion carried. Motion was made by Mr. Schramm to pass the Resolution as read. Mr. Burns seconded the motion. A roll call vote was heard with Schramm, Hunker, Shrodes, Armstrong, Rodgers, Burns, and Agnew voting yes. The motion carried and the Resolution was declared passed
An Ordinance Providing For Assessments To Be Levied And Authorizing The Service Director To Certify Those Assessments To The Belmont County Auditor And Declaring An Emergency.
This Ordinance was given a first reading. Motion was made by Mr. Hunker to suspend the rules. Motion was seconded by Mr. Rodgers. A roll call vote was heard with Hunker, Shrodes, Armstrong, Rodgers, Burns, Agnew and Schramm voting yes. The motion carried. Motion was made by Mr. Rodgers to pass the Ordinance as read. Mr. Burns seconded the motion. A roll call vote was heard with Rodgers, Burns, Agnew, Schramm, Hunker, Shrodes, and Armstrong voting yes. The motion carried and the Ordinance was declared passed.
A Resolution Accepting The Amounts And Rates As Determined By The Budget Commission And Authorizing The Necessary Tax Levies And Certifying Them To The County Auditor.
This Resolution was given a first reading. Motion was made by Mr. Hunker to suspend the rules. Motion was seconded by Mr. Rodgers. A roll call vote was heard with Hunker, Shrodes, Armstrong, Rodgers, Burns, Agnew and Schramm voting yes. The motion carried. Motion was made by Mr. Burns to pass the Resolution as read. Mr. Schramm seconded the motion. A roll call vote was heard with Burns, Agnew, Schramm, Hunker, Shrodes, Armstrong, and Rodgers voting yes. The motion carried and the Resolution was declared passed
AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE CITY OF MARTINS
FERRY TO ENTER INTO A CONTRACT FOR THE ZANE
HIGHWAY 12” WATERLINE CONNECTION TO AETNA
STREET BOOSTER STATION AND DECLARING AN
EMERGENC
Miscellaneous Business:
Mr. Burns made a motion to authorize replacement of the Skadis System at a cost of $196,000 to be paid in four payments from the Capital Improvement Line 107. Motion was seconded by Mr. Hunker. A roll call vote was heard with Burns, Agnew, Schramm, Hunker, Shrodes, Armstrong, and Rodgers voting yes. The motion carried
Mr. Schramm made a motion to allow the Mayor to award the paving bid to the Cast and Baker Corporation. Motion was seconded by Rev. Agnew. A roll call vote was heard with Schramm, Hunker, Shrodes, Armstrong, Rodgers, Burns, and Agnew voting yes. The motion was declared passed.
Mr. Burns made a motion to approve the payment of two invoices, one from AirTech for $17,884 and one for Water Ways of Southwest Pennsylvania for $4,019. Motion was seconded by Mrs. Armstrong. A roll call vote was heard with Burns, Agnew, Schramm, Hunker, Shrodes, Armstrong, and Rodgers voting yes. The motion carried
Mr. Stecker will prepare an Ordinance for the purchase of a valve exerciser. Auditor Regis was asked to send Mr. Stecker the details.
Mrs. Armstrong made a motion and Mr. Rodgers seconded to note that Council has received and accepted the Payroll Summary, Cash Position Statement and the New Hire Summary. After an affirmative voice vote, the motion carried.
Mr. Schramm made a motion to reflect Council has received reports from the Officers and Management, and to incorporate these reports into the minutes. Motion was seconded by Rev. Agnew. After an affirmative voice vote, the motion passed.
Mr. Hunker motioned and Mr. Burns seconded to note that at the September 6 Meeting, Council received and reviewed the Check Register for the August, 2023 bills. After an affirmative voice vote, the motion passed.
Mr. Shrodes received thanks and appreciation for his service on Council from President Davis and Mayor Davies. He told Council it was a pleasure working with everyone. Mr. Shrodes received a standing ovation.
Mrs. Armstrong moved to adjourn, which was seconded by Mr. Shrodes. After an affirmative voice vote, the meeting was adjourned at 7:10 p.m. with a salute to the flag.
The next Martins Ferry Council Meeting will be held on Wednesday, October 4, 2023 at 6:00 p.m. at the City Building.
___________________________________ ___________________________________ Kay H. McFarlan, Clerk of Council Kristine Davis, Council President
The Martins Ferry City Council met in Regular Session on Thursday, September 7, 2023, at 6:00 p.m., at the Donald Myers Council Chambers. The meeting was called to order by Council President Kristine Davis with the Pledge of Allegiance recited by those present in chamber, followed by a prayer by the Clerk. Answering Roll Call were Bob Hunker, First Ward Council Member, Suzanne Armstrong, Third Ward Council Member; Rick Rodgers, Fourth Ward Council Member; Tom Burns, James Agnew, and Jim Schramm, Council at Large Members. Excused: Bruce Shrodes, Second Ward Council Member.
Minutes: Minutes of the August 16, 2023 Council Meeting were approved as written.
Correspondence: Correspondence was received from The Ohio Department of Commerce, Division of Liquor Control regarding an application for a liquor permit for the Bell Store 1074 located at 507 Crawford Street, Martins Ferry. After consulting with Police Chief Murphy, who said the Department had no issues with the application, the form was signed by the Clerk and returned to the Division of Liquor Control.
A letter from Mr. Bruce Shrodes was read announcing his resignation from Council, effective September 30, 2023. The Republican Committee will need to fill this seat within 45 days.
Reports of Officers of the City:
Mayor: Street paving project bids have been received and the Cast and Baker Company was the lowest bidder at a cost of almost $158,000, which was lower than expected. The engineers have approved the plan and the company assured the Mayor that the project would be finished by the end of the year. Since there is still money available for paving, the Mayor ask Council to refer any additional streets they would like to see paved to the Street Committee.
Water Superintendent Bill Suto has decided to retire, effective September 23, 2023.
The Mayor and Mr. Sutak met with Water Plant experts and engineers regarding updates to the Water Plant. It was estimated the Plant needs $6,000,000 in repairs. Mayor Davies explained the recommendations and cost for the planned upgrades which need to be done in phases.
A new hydraulic saw has been purchased to cut pipe which will save time and money when there is a water break. The Water Department is also asking for Council’s permission to purchase a Valve Exerciser (valve turning machine) at a cost of $90,645.05. The purchase would be paid through the Capital Projects Fund.
Service Director: Mr. Sutak has received an estimate of $90,645.05 for the Valve Exerciser. The EPA mandates that this machine be used to turn every valve on and off once a year so they are clear and can be opened when needed. Mr. Sutak will apply for an Ohio Public Works funding grant to help with the cost of the Valve Exerciser.
Repairs to the Recreation Center’s cooling system are completed. Maintenance work is now needed on the heat and air exchanger at the Center which will cost $3,944.
Mr. Sutak has been working with a company to possibly install Solar Panels on several buildings in the city to help save on utility costs.
There is a total of $42,269.65 in County Permissive Tax Money. This money can only be used for dedicated street paving.
Safety Director: Director Regis thanked everyone in the community for their support of the Betty Zane Festival sponsored by the Fire Department. The EMS Department is now providing emergency and non-emergency transport service for the Shadyside Care Center. Last fall, a family who had a grievance about an EMS call, filed a complaint with the State Division of EMS Board. Today, the Board notified Martins Ferry EMS that there was no significant reason found to proceed with the investigation. Mrs. Armstrong asked about the Auction of city vehicles. Director Regis said they decided to change the way the sale would be handled and he still needs time to get things ready. The Mayor said the K-9 Unit, with the damaged motor, has been put on a 14-day on-line auction site and has gotten a few bids.
Auditor: Auditor Regis supplied every Council Member with a written report. The state auditors have advised the city to close the books on November 22, 2023. All Purchase Orders that are 60 days or older will be canceled. The Auditors are not in favor of open purchase orders where parts can be purchased and then later a Purchase order is submitted. It is understandable that the water department needs something like this in place because many times they need parts quickly.
Law Director: No report.
Police Department: Officer Vince West gave the end of August Police Department report. Dr. Yurko, of KEY Animal Hospital in Wheeling, supplied free veterinary services to the city’s two K-9 officers.
Officer West reported that he was elected the F.O.P. President. He reported that morale is low. Officers have been working hard but are now discouraged because they must take compensation time instead of getting overtime pay. In order to better understand the situation, the Mayor and Service Director took 20 minutes to explain the financial and budget constraints facing the city. The Mayor will schedule a meeting between the administration and the F.O.P. sometime next week.
Fire Department: No report.
Code Administrator: No report.
Park District: No report.
Water Department: No report.
Reports of Committees of Council:
Finance and Audit: The Finance Committee met on August 23 and will meet again on Monday, September 11 at 10:00 a.m. in Council Chambers. Minutes of the August 23 Finance Meeting will be filed with these minutes. The Mayor asked the Finance Committee to address Franchise Fees, which haven’t been increased for a long time.
Street: Mr. Rodgers scheduled a Street Committee Meeting on September 18, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. to discuss additional roads to be paved.
Ordinance: No report.
Sewer/Sidewalk: No report.
Code Administration: No report.
Safety: Director Regis has asked that a meeting be scheduled to discuss a few items concerning the Fire Department.
Service: No report.
Cemetery: Mr. Burns did some trimming of weeds at the cemetery. He also supplied water to the workers who are doing a good job keeping the cemetery looking great.
Public Relations: No report.
Real Estate/Utility: Mr. Hunker scheduled a Utility Meeting for Monday, October 16, 2023, at 10:00 a.m. in Council Chambers.
Income Tax: The committee met on Monday, August 21 (minutes of this meeting will be filed with the minutes of this Council Meeting). Mrs. Armstrong asked Council for their thoughts on having a Town Hall Meeting to discuss the Income Tax Levy. Tuesday, October 17 was suggested as a date for the Town Hall Meeting. The Town Hall Meeting date will be finalized at the next Council Meeting.
Citizens To Be Heard: President Davis reminded citizens to limit their speaking to 5 minutes.
Richard Hord, 915 Virginia Street, ask about the future project plans for Columbia Gas. President Davis spoke to a Columbia Gas worker who said there are two stages for the line replacement projects and they may not be back to Martins Ferry until next year. Mayor Davies wants to have a meeting with Columbia Gas officials to discuss the condition of the roads after a job is completed. He said the general rule of construction is to leave the road “as good or better” than what they found it. There are no updates regarding the former Staffilino building. The Mayor emphasized that every new employee hired and every new program started by East Ohio Regional Hospital benefits the city. He also shared the difficulties in enforcing codes on dilapidated properties. Mr. Hord wished Mr. Suto and Mr. Shrodes a happy retirement!
Tom Burns, Council-at-Large Member, reported that on August 21 he accompanied two Martins Ferry Police Officers on their 3-11 p.m. shift. Both Officers were professional in their investigation that led to an arrest that evening. Mr. Burns said the city is blessed to have such great law enforcement.
Ordinances and Resolutions:
An Ordinance Accepting The Road Described On Exhibit A As A Dedicated Municipal Public Street. This Ordinance was given a third reading. Mrs. Armstrong made a motion to postpone this motion indefinitely, pending clarification. Motion was seconded by Mr. Rodgers. A roll call vote was heard with Armstrong, Rodgers, Burns, Agnew, Schramm, and Hunker voting yes. The motion carried.
AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE CITY OF MARTINS
FERRY TO ENTER INTO A CONTRACT FOR THE ZANE
HIGHWAY 12” WATERLINE CONNECTION TO AETNA
STREET BOOSTER STATION AND DECLARING AN
EMERGENC
Miscellaneous Business:
Mr. Schramm made a motion to appropriate $3,944 from the Permanent Improvement Fund to be used for repairs to the heat exchanger at the Recreation Center. Motion was seconded by Rev. Agnew. A roll call vote was heard with Schramm, Hunker, Armstrong, Rodgers, Burns and Agnew voting yes. The motion carried.
Mr. Hunker made a motion and Mrs. Armstrong seconded to excuse Mr. Shrodes from tonight’s meeting. After an affirmative voice vote, the motion passed.
Mr. Burns made a motion to appropriate $90,645 from the Capital Projects Fund 107 to purchase a Valve Turning Machine for the Water Department. Motion was seconded by Schramm. A roll call vote was heard with Burns, Agnew, Schramm, Hunker, Armstrong and Rodgers voting yes. The motion carried. Mr. Stecker will be contacted to prepare an Ordinance for this purchase.
Mr. Schramm made a motion to reflect Council has received reports from the Officers and Management, and to incorporate these reports into the minutes. Motion was seconded by Mr. Burns. After an affirmative voice vote, the motion passed.
Auditor Regis reminded Council of the reception for the First Co-Starters Cohort Class sponsored by Project Forward. The reception will take place at Kendall Behavioral Solutions on September 14, 2023 at 6:00 p.m.
Mrs. Armstrong moved to adjourn, which was seconded by Mr. Burns. After an affirmative voice vote, the meeting was adjourned at 7:25 p.m. with a salute to the flag.
The next meeting of the Martins Ferry City Council will be held on Wednesday, September 20, 2023 at 6:00 p.m. at the City Building.
___________________________________ ___________________________________ Kay H. McFarlan, Clerk of Council Kristine Davis, Council President
Unified Bank is a full-service community bank headquartered in Martins Ferry, Ohio, with 18 banking centers located in Ohio and West Virginia. Unified has been in continuous operation since first opening in Martins Ferry in 1902. If you are looking for a bank that treats you with the dignity and respect that you deserve, then Unified Bank is for you! They have a strong heritage of service excellence and look forward to being your committed financial partner. Member FDIC
Clean up week will be held curb side on your normal trash day this week (September 25 – September 29) Mattresses/boxsprings will need wrapped in plastic and will be an extra charge added to your utility bill. We can not accept tires, electronics, wood/building materials, hazardous materials and paint. Please place items out with your normal trash.
The above link is our ordinance 521.08 for littering and deposit of garbage, rubbish, junk, etc. Starting today, you will be cited for this ordinance and given a court date. If not cleaned up and taken care of after court date, the city will clean it up and you will be billed for extra sanitation on your water bill. If this is not paid within 60 days it will be put on your property taxes.
The Martins Ferry City Council met in Regular Session on Wednesday, August 16, 2023, at 6:00 p.m., at the Donald Myers Council Chambers. The meeting was called to order by Council President Kristine Davis with the Pledge of Allegiance recited by those present in chamber, followed by a prayer by the Clerk. Answering Roll Call were Bob Hunker, First Ward Council Member, Bruce Shrodes, Second Ward Council Member; Suzanne Armstrong, Third Ward Council Member; Rick Rodgers, Fourth Ward Council Member; Tom Burns, James Agnew, and Jim Schramm, Council at Large Members.
Minutes: Minutes of the August 2, 2023 Council Meeting were approved as written.
Correspondence: There was no correspondence.
Reports of Officers of the City:
Mayor: Mayor Davies began his report by emphatically disagreeing with recommendations in Auditor Regis’s report to Council and expressed his reasons to Council. He would like to see a report from the Auditor’s office on a breakdown of where the income tax money, the police levy and the EMS levy is being spent. Gas and Oil Rights amount to $17,000 and future contracts will be extended one year at time. President Davis informed Council that the Auditor can only recommend changes; he does not have the power to tell Council how to set the budget.
The Tree of Life Church is prepared to pay $5,000 for the former Curley Property and Mr. Stecker will prepare the deed. This money will be placed in the General Fund.
There were two major water breaks this week, one on Center Street and one on First Street. The city went dry on Sunday. If there had been a fire, it could have jeopardized the hospital, businesses, homes and lives of our citizens. The Mayor explained what caused the breaks and the steps that were taken to fix them. He praised the dedication of the water department employees for their determination to restore water to the citizens. Water Department employees suggested, among other things, isolating the city into four quadrants. This way, any quadrant, at any time, could be shut off instead of closing down the whole city. The administration is looking into purchasing a hydraulic pipe cutter, which would be safer for the employees and would save time cutting the pipe.
Mayor Davies and Mr. Sutak attended an OMEGA Meeting to learn about grants, some of which will not be funded. The Mayor asked Council and the citizens to write letters/make phone calls to their local and state representatives describing the severity of the water situation in the city and plead for funding to get a dedicated line to the hospital/business district and improvements to the Water Plant. The Mayor elaborated on upgrades needed at the Water Plant. Modernizations to the plant will amounts to millions of dollars.
City Employee Appreciation Day will be on Friday, August 18 at the Recreation Center. It will include a cookout and swimming for employees and their families.
Two employees are keeping the cemetery well maintained. Trees were taken down and removed from Colerain Pike. Pothole patching is almost complete.
The person who inquired about purchasing the sandstone from the city for $10,000 has withdrawn the offer.
Service Director: Mr. Sutak spoke with several Representatives regarding funding for a dedicated water line to the hospital. Approximate cost of the line is $1,000,000. It is believed the city has been approved for $644,000. Additional funding is being investigated. Mr. Sutak would like every Council Member to write a letter to their Local, State and Federal Representatives and stress there is an immediate need for upgrades on our water system. He explained the 5 phases of improvements needed for the Water Plant and water lines.
Next week, workers will begin re-boxing a sewer in the alley behind Grant Street and 7th Street. A new catch basin will also be installed.
The application for the Beretta Drive Guardrail Project is ready to be submitted if Council passes the Resolution tonight. Mr. Sutak explained the grant money, the point system and the city’s share of the expense of this project.
Mr. Sutak explained the storm sewer situation on Overlook Drive where he believes there is mine subsidence. He will look for funding to help shore up this road. The Mayor expounded on the severity of this situation since water and gas lines may be affected as well as the homes on the street below Overlook Drive. Council discussed the Overlook Drive situation for 16 minutes. Mr. Sutak will email Council the names and addresses of the Representatives that citizens can write or call about the infrastructure problems the city is facing. He will also prepare a description of the problems that need addressed. The Mayor will post on Social Media some of the challenges the city is facing and ask citizens to contact their local, state and federal representatives to ask for assistance.
Mr. Shrodes asked if anything could be done about water running down South Ridge Drive. The Mayor has some ideas on how to elevate the situation in this area and said they are going to look at it tomorrow.
Safety Director: No report.
Law Director: No report.
Police Department: Chief Murphy reported his department assisted U.S. Marshalls in apprehending an attempted murder suspect. K-9 Patch and his handler assisted in arresting a man, involved in an assault, who had barricaded himself in a closet. Two Police Officers have completed phase 2 of the Crisis Intervention Training. Chief Murphy applied and has received a $7,761.18 grant from the Bureau of Workers Compensation for 8 new body armor vests. Total cost of the body armor is $10,348.24. The grant is a 25% matching grant. The Chief has applied for a $1,000 PEP Grant to help with the 25% match of $2,587.06. He also applied and received a $300 grant from Harbor Freight for the purchase of bolt cutters and a shop vacuum. Contract talks are being held with a body camera system company to negotiate another 5 year contract. A savings of $4,000 is expected. An officer has just been re-certified as a Taser Instructor. The Mayor congratulated Chief Murphy and his officers on the apprehension of the suspects. President Davis commended Chief Murphy on applying and receiving the body armor grant and the Harbor Freight Grant as well as applying for the additional PEP grant.
Auditor: Auditor Regis was not at the meeting but supplied Council Members with a report and financial statements. He also asked Council to approve an invoice from Enterprise for $9,852.20 for the Fire Department. This is a normal bill for the Fire Department but the invoice was submitted before the Purchase Order was signed.
Fire Department: No report.
Code Administrator: No report.
Park District: No report.
Water Department: No report.
Reports of Committees of Council:
Finance and Audit: No report.
Street: No report.
Ordinance: The Ordinance Meeting has been re-scheduled for Monday, August 21, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. in Council Chambers.
Sewer/Sidewalk: No report.
Code Administration: No report.
Safety: No report.
Service: No report.
Cemetery: Mr. Burns acknowledged the work Mr. Larry Riser who voluntarily does a lot of weeding at the Betty Zane Cemetery and around town.
Public Relations: No report.
Real Estate/Utility: No report.
Income Tax: There will be an Income Tax Meeting on Monday, August 21 at 10:00 a.m. which coincides with the Ordinance Meeting.
Citizens To Be Heard: President Davis reminded citizens to limit their speaking to 5 minutes.
Richard Hord, 915 Virginia Street, thanked the city workers who participated in the restoration of water to residents during the breaks on Sunday. The Mayor said the boil order is now expired. Regarding Martins Ferry’s infrastructure, the Mayor said when there are 5-6 breaks in one area, those lines are targeted for replacement. Martins Ferry is the oldest city in Ohio, so it has the oldest infrastructure. The Fire Department was thanked for the successful Betty Zane Festival, which provided great food, great vendors, great entertainment and great fireworks for the citizens. There is no timetable for the completion of the Columbia gas line replacement project. At this time, the Mayor did not think the city could afford offering support to Wheeling Health Right.
Ordinances and Resolutions:
An Ordinance Accepting The Road Described On Exhibit A As A Dedicated Municipal Public Street. This Ordinance was given a second reading. This Ordinance will go to a third reading.
A Resolution Authorizing The City Of Martins Ferry To Prepare And Submit An Application To Participate In The Ohio Public Works Commission State Capital Improvement And/Or Local Transportation Improvement Program(s) And To Execute Contracts As Required.
This Resolution was given a first reading. Motion was made by Mr. Rodgers to suspend the rules. Motion was seconded by Mr. Burns. A roll call vote was heard with Rodgers, Burns, Schramm, Agnew, Hunker, Shrodes, and Armstrong voting yes. Motion was made by Mr. Burns to pass the Resolution as read. Motion was seconded by Mr. Schramm. A roll call vote was heard with Burns, Agnew, Schramm, Hunker, Shrodes, Armstrong and Rodgers voting yes. The Resolution was declared passed.
AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE CITY OF MARTINS
FERRY TO ENTER INTO A CONTRACT FOR THE ZANE
HIGHWAY 12” WATERLINE CONNECTION TO AETNA
STREET BOOSTER STATION AND DECLARING AN
EMERGENC
Miscellaneous Business:
Mr. Shrodes made a motion to approve payment of an invoice for the Fire Department to Enterprise in the amount of $9,852.20. Motion was seconded by Mr. Hunker. Note: The Fire Department does have the money to make this payment. A roll call vote was heard with Shrodes, Armstrong, Rodgers, Burns, Agnew, Schramm, and Hunker voting yes. The motion was declared passed.
Motion was made by Mr. Hunker and seconded by Rev. Agnew that Council approve the position of cash statement and payroll summary financials. A roll call vote was heard with Hunker, Shrodes, Armstrong, Rodgers, Burns, Agnew and Schramm voting yes. The motion was declared passed.
Mr. Schramm made a motion to reflect Council has received reports from the Officers and Management, and to incorporate these reports into the minutes. Motion was seconded by Mr. Hunker. After an affirmative voice vote, the motion passed.
Mayor Davies informed Council that he wants to recognize two Eagle Scouts. One Scout built the sandstone wall at Riverview Cemetery and another Scout revitalized the Floral Valley Park. Proclamations will be forthcoming to honor these two young men.
The city has begun receiving bids for the proposed street paving project. It has been almost 3 years since the Gas Company replaced lines on Zane Highway, leaving the street with several humps and bumps. The city administration has contacted the contractor several times to express dissatisfaction with the job but the repairs have not been done. Mayor Davies asked Council for permission to get bids on paving South Zane Highway. Mr. Burns made a motion to allow the Mayor and Service Director to take bids for paving of South Zane Highway from the Tokyo Hibachi Restaurant, 1220 South Zane Highway (old Dairy Queen) to Aetna Street. Motion was seconded by Mr. Schramm. A roll call vote was heard with Burns, Agnew, Schramm, Hunker, Shrodes, Armstrong and Rodgers voting yes. Motion carried.
Mayor Davies asked Rev. Agnew, who is also a School Board Member, to let the school district know that the city will be painting white lines up each side of the road off of St. Rt. 647 leading to the school.
Mrs. Armstrong moved to adjourn, which was seconded by Rev. Agnew. After an affirmative voice vote, the meeting was adjourned at 7:26 p.m. with a salute to the flag.
The next meeting of the Martins Ferry Council will be on Wednesday, September 6, 2023 at 6:00 p.m. in Council Chambers at the City Building.
___________________________________ ___________________________________ Kay H. McFarlan, Clerk of Council Kristine Davis, Council President
The Martins Ferry City Council met in Regular Session on Wednesday, August 2, 2023, at 6:00 p.m., at the Donald Myers Council Chambers. The meeting was called to order by Council President Kristine Davis with the Pledge of Allegiance recited by those present in chamber, followed by a prayer by the Clerk. Answering Roll Call were Bob Hunker, First Ward Council Member, Bruce Shrodes, Second Ward Council Member; Suzanne Armstrong, Third Ward Council Member; Rick Rodgers, Fourth Ward Council Member; Tom Burns, James Agnew, and Jim Schramm, Council at Large Members.
Minutes: Minutes of the June 26 and July 19 Regular Council Meetings and the July 20 and July 21 Special Council Meetings were approved as written.
Correspondence: There was no correspondence.
Reports of Officers of the City:
Mayor: Betty Zane Days festivities opened tonight, beginning with the 5K Race. The Mayor said there were a lot of people in attendance already. The Festival will run until Saturday, August 5.
The Mayor and Service Director have been working for a year on the Beretta Drive Guardrail Project. The guardrails have collapsed and slipped down over the hill. This would be a joint project with Peace Township. Mr. Sutak reported the city’s share of the cost would be $197,000. The Mayor asked Council for direction on this project.
EdgeCo. recently took down a dilapidated house on Zane Highway which was funded by the Land Bank.
The Street Sweeper is operational but there is not enough employees to run it every day. Crews have been busy patching potholes.
Service Director: Mr. Sutak reported the Storage Center for road salt has been completed. He would like to put a tarp on the front of the building to further protect the salt from the elements. Mr. Sutak would also like to asphalt the ramp of the structure to make it easier for trucks to load the salt.
An offer of $10,000 was received for the sandstone that was removed from a home that was torn down by the city. Mr. Sutak asked Council if they would like him to sell the stone or try to get a higher offer. Mr. Stecker will check to see if the city has to put the Sandstone out for bid before it’s sold.
The bids for the paving project were submitted to The Times Leader and will be published on Monday.
The ramp to the Water Plant’s entrance was paved today. It was sloped in order for the water to be diverted to a catch basin.
A water leak, near the old North School, was worked on today but not finished due to safety concerns for the 5K racers passing by the area this evening. It will be hopefully finished tomorrow.
Auditor: Auditor Regis did not have a report but mentioned he was meeting with the Finance Committee tomorrow.
Safety Director: Director Regis asked Council for permission to use the city streets (same route as last year) for the Annual Christmas Parade on Friday, November 24, 3:00 – 8:00 p.m.
A Joint Meeting of the Finance Committee and the Safety Committee was scheduled for Wednesday, August 23 at 10:00 a.m. to discuss the roof situation of the Vigilant Fire Department Building.
Law Director: No report.
Police Department: Chief Murphy gave the end of July Service Report for the Police Department.
Fire Department: No report.
Code Administrator: No report.
Park District: No report.
Water Department: No report.
Reports of Committees of Council:
Finance and Audit: The Finance Committee will meet on Thursday, August 3 at 10:00 a.m. in Council Chambers. The committee will also meet with the Safety Committee on Wednesday, August 23 at 10:00 a.m. to discuss the roof situation at the Vigilant Fire Department Building.
Street: The Street Committee met on Monday, July 31 to discuss the Beretta Drive Project. The Committee referred the issue to the Finance Committee. If the funding cannot be secured, it was suggested to re-visit the Beretta Drive Project at the beginning of next year when funding might be available.
Ordinance: An Ordinance Committee Meeting was scheduled for Friday, August 18 at 10:00 a.m. in Council Chambers.
Sewer/Sidewalk: No report.
Code Administration: No report.
Safety: The Safety Committee will meet with the Finance Committee on Wednesday, August 23 at 10:00 a.m. to discuss the roof situation at the Vigilant Fire Department Building.
Service: No report.
Cemetery: No report.
Public Relations: No report.
Real Estate/Utility: No report.
Income Tax: No report.
Citizens To Be Heard: President Davis reminded citizens to limit their speaking to 5 minutes.
Larry Deaton, 1102 North 9th Street, wanted to know why Council did not give Mr. Sutak directions for dealing with the Sandstone. Mr. Deaton was told that this will be dealt with under Miscellaneous Business.
Richard Hord, 915 Virginia Street, thanked the city administration for their help in setting up the Town Hall Meeting with the Belmont County Commissioners on August 1. The former Curley property has been sold to the Tree of Life Church. Mr. Stecker will take care of transferring the deed. The bid on the former Booster Club Building was rejected. Mr. Ferns, owner of the former Staffilino property, would like to find a dealership to occupy the building but has not been able to locate one. Mr. Hord asked the city to honor Bob Zilai, who just closed his jewelry business after 47 years of service in the city. The Mayor explained to Mr. Hord the current steps of code enforcement in the city.
Ordinances and Resolutions:
An Ordinance Accepting The Road Described On Exhibit A As A Dedicated Municipal Public Street. 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. Schramm made a motion to allow the Mayor and Service Director to sell the Sandstone for the offered price of $10,000. This sale is contingent on the Law Director checking to see if the sale can be done without a bid. Motion was seconded by Mr. Burns. A roll call vote was heard with Schramm, Hunker, Shrodes, Armstrong, Rodgers, Burns and Agnew voting yes. The motion carried and the Ordinance was declared passed.
Mr. Rodger made a motion to allow the Fire Department to use City Streets for the Christmas Parade on November 24. Rev. Agnew seconded the motion. After an affirmative voice vote, the motion carried.
Auditor Regis asked Council to consider funding the Beretta Drive Guardrail Project due to safety issues. He gave some suggestions on how to finance the project. The Finance Committee will discuss this issue at the meeting on August 3. Mr. Sutak said he has until August 31 to fill out the application. Discussion regarding the Beretta Drive Project lasted 10 minutes.
Mr. Schramm made a motion to reflect Council has received reports from the Officers and Management, and to incorporate these reports into the minutes. Motion was seconded by Rev. Agnew. After an affirmative voice vote, the motion passed.
Mr. Hunker made a motion to note that Council has received and reviewed the financial reports for the previous month of July, 2023. Mr. Rodgers seconded the motion. After an affirmative voice vote, the motion carried.
Mr. Hunker moved to adjourn, which was seconded by Mr. Shrodes. After an affirmative voice vote, the meeting was adjourned at 6:45 p.m. with a salute to the flag.
___________________________________ ___________________________________ Kay H. McFarlan, Clerk of Council Kristine Davis, Council President
