News & Updates
Posted on: October 8, 2026
The Martins Ferry City Council met in Regular Session on Wednesday, October 7, 2026 at 5:30 p.m., in the Donald Myers Council Chambers. The meeting was called to order by Council President Phil Wallace 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, Spencer Echemann, Second Ward Council Member; Andrew Smay, Third Ward Council Member; Ryan Robey, Fourth Ward Council Member; Gus Harris, James Agnew and Jim Schramm, Council at Large Members.
Minutes: Minutes of the September 16, 2026 Council Meeting were approved as written.
Correspondence: There was no correspondence.
Reports of Officers of the City:
Mayor: Mayor Davies
Service Director: Mr. Sutak
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. Hunker
Street: No report.
Ordinance: No report.
Sewer/Sidewalk: No report.
Safety: No report.
Service: No report.
Cemetery: No report.
Public Relations: No report.
Code Administration: No report.
Real Estate/Building and Grounds: No report.
Utility: No report.
Income Tax: No report.
Citizens To Be Heard: President Wallace reminded citizens to limit their speaking to 5 minutes.
Richard Hord, 915 Virginia Street,
Ordinances and Resolutions:
An Ordinance Authorizing The Issuance Of $6,000,000 Of Water System Improvement Bond Anticipation Notes Series 2026 (Third Renewal), To Renew Notes Originally Issued To Pay Part Of The Costs Of, And To Pay Additional Costs Of, Water Well Upgrades, Water Plant Upgrades, Pumping Station Upgrades, And Other Related Cost And Improvements, Including But Not Limited To Motors, Pumps, Controls, Generators, Filtration Screens, Transfer Switches, Electrical Upgrades, Computer Control Systems Heating And Dehumidifying Systems, Contract Tank Repairs, Compressor Units, Valve Repairs/Upgrades, And Other Water Works And/Or Water System Permanent Improvements And Declaring An Emergency.
This Ordinance was given a first reading. Motion was made by Mr. Hunker and seconded by Mr. Schramm to suspend the rules. A roll call vote was heard with Hunker, Echemann, Smay, Robey, Harris, Agnew and Schramm, voting yes. The motion carried. Motion was made by Mr. Schramm and seconded by Rev. Agnew to pass the Ordinance as read. A roll call vote was heard with Schramm, Hunker, Echemann, Smay, Robey, Harris, and Agnew voting yes. The motion carried and the Ordinance was declared passed.
A Resolution Authorizing The City Of Martins Ferry To Participate In The Proposed Class Action Settlement With Amerex Corporation, Archroma U.S. Inc. Carrier Global Corporation And Nation Ford Chemical Company In The Public Water Systems’ Portion Of The Multi-District Litigation Matter, In RE: Aqueous Film-Forming Foams Product Liability Litigation, MDO 2:18-MN-2873-RMG, Relating To PFAS Contamination Of Drinking Water; Authorizing The Service Director To Complete All Documentation And Execute All Releases And Agreements Necessary To Participate In The Settlements With Amerex Corporation, Achroma U.S., Inc., Carrier Global Corporation, And Nation Ford Chemical Company In The Public Water System’s Portion Of The MDL; And Authorizing Outside Counsel To Continue To Pursue Claims Related To PFAS; Providing An Effective Date.
Motion was made by Rev. Agnew and seconded by Mr. Echemann to pass the Ordinance as read. A roll call vote was heard with Agnew, Schramm, Hunker, Echemann, Smay, Robey, and Harris 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 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. Schramm moved to adjourn, which was seconded by Mr. Hunker. After an affirmative voice vote, the meeting was adjourned at with a salute to the flag.
The next meeting of the Martins Ferry Council will be on Wednesday, October 7, 2026 at 5:30 p.m. in Council Chambers.
___________________________________ ___________________________________
Kay H. McFarlan, Clerk of Council Phil Wallace, Council President
___________________________________
Date
Posted on: September 29, 2026
The City of Martins Ferry will have a meeting to discuss the road closure on North Ridge Drive. This meeting will be held on Thursday October 1, 2026 at 5:00pm, in the city building council chambers.
Posted on: September 21, 2026
Posted on: September 17, 2026
The Martins Ferry City Council met in Regular Session on Wednesday, September 2, 2026 at 5:30 p.m., in the Donald Myers Council Chambers. The meeting was called to order by Council President Phil Wallace 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; Andrew Smay, Third Ward Council Member; Ryan Robey, Fourth Ward Council Member; and Gus Harris and James Agnew, Council at Large Members. Spencer Echemann, Second Ward Council Member and Jim Schramm, Council at Large Member were not able to attend this meeting.
Minutes: Minutes of the August 19, 2026 Council Meeting were approved as written.
Correspondence: There was no correspondence.
Reports of Officers of the City:
Mayor: Crews have been working on sewer projects throughout the city. The former East Ohio Regional Hospital Building was not sold at auction today. In two weeks, this building will be auctioned again.
Service Director: An emergency grant of $675,000 from the Ohio Public Works Commission was received for the 6th Street Extension Repair Project. A twenty year, no interest loan of $75,000 was also received which the city will try to get as a “forgiveness” loan. Mr. Sutak introduced Bryan May, President of May Engineering Company, who spoke to Council regarding the process needed to receive this money and the next steps, including a timeline, for the project. Council was asked for permission to proceed with this project.
Mr. Sutak thanked Don Neavin for his hard work on the sewer repair issues in the city.
Crews have been pothole patching. A new curb was installed on South Ridge Drive.
The roof over the Recreation Center’s Dining Room has been leaking. The Mansuetto Roofing Company was called to look at the roof. They will submit an estimate for the cost of repairing or replacing it.
Auditor: Mr. Regis was unable to attend this meeting but supplied Council with a Payroll Summary and New Hire/Termination/Retirement Report for 7/16/26 – 8/19/26.
Law Director: Mr. Stecker had no report but said the 72-hour rule needed to be waived for the Resolution to be read tonight.
Police Department: Chief West distributed the Police Department’s August 2026 Report. He thanked Mr. Sutak for patching the roof over the Department’s Jail.
Chief West asked that Council approved a Purchase Order for Shultz Ford in the amount of $4,227.75. Shultz Ford mixed up the dates between the Invoice and the original P.O. that the Chief submitted. A copy of the invoice including the details of the work performed on the cruiser are included with these minutes.
Fire Department: No report.
Safety Director: The section of the Reports and Concerns portion of the GovPilot Project has gone live. Six violations were entered today with no problems. Ms. Yeso informed Council of the many features now available on the GovPilot application.
The Planters have been installed and Ms. Yeso thanked all the volunteers who showed up and helped with this undertaking. All the necessary paperwork has been filed with the J. B. Green Team who helped fund this project.
Code Administrator: No report.
Park District: No report.
Water Department: No report.
Reports of Committees of Council:
Finance and Audit: No report.
Street: No report.
Ordinance: No report.
Sewer/Sidewalk: No report.
Safety: No report.
Service: No report.
Cemetery: No report.
Public Relations: No report.
Code Administration: No report.
Real Estate/Building and Grounds: No report.
Utility: No report.
Income Tax: No report.
Citizens To Be Heard: President Wallace reminded citizens to limit their speaking to 5 minutes.
Richard Hord, 915 Virginia Street, asked what Mayor Davies thought of how things might proceed with the former East Ohio Regional Hospital Building. The Mayor stated a lot of money will have to be put into the building to make it functional again. He said the city will have to wait to see what happens in two weeks when it’s up for auction a second time. Regarding the water running on Hughes Avenue, the Mayor stated that the location and design of the sewer makes it hard to clean out the debri. The city is working on this problem. Mr. Hord announced two events to be held at the Martins Ferry Public Library: 1) on Thursday, September 17 at 6:00 p.m. there will be a presentation on the history of Martins Ferry and 2) on Thursday, September 24 there will be a “Meet the Candidates” Session for all those individuals running for office in November. Currently there are no plans to hire a Recreation Director due to funding.
Ordinances and Resolutions:
An Ordinance Establishing Pool Maintenance Requirements And Penalties For Failure To Maintain Residential Swimming Pools.
This Ordinance was given a second reading.
An Ordinance Approving Amending Chapter 193, Income Tax Sections 193.03 And 193.04 Of The Administrative Code Of The City Of Martins Ferry, Ohio To Provide For Imposition Of Annual Income Tax Rate Of Two Percent (2.00%) Per Year On Income On Or After January 1, 2028 And Declaring An Emergency.
This Ordinance was given a second reading.
Motion was made by Mr. Hunker and seconded by Rev. Agnew to suspend the 72 Hour Rule for reading this Resolution. A roll call vote was heard with Hunker, Smay, Robey, Harris, and Agnew voting yes. The motion carried and the Resolution was given a first 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 Programs(s) And To Execute Contracts As Required.
Motion was made by Mr. Hunker and seconded by Rev. Agnew to suspend the rules for three readings. A roll call vote was heard with Hunker, Smay, Robey, Harris, and Agnew voting yes. The motion carried. Motion was made by Rev. Agnew and seconded by Mr. Hunker to pass the Resolution as read. A roll call vote was heard with Agnew, Hunker, Smay, Robey, and Harris 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. Hunker made a motion and Rev. Agnew seconded to pay $124,000 to the May Engineering Company, LLC for the professional engineering services associated with the stabilization and reconstruction of the North 6th Street slip area. This will be paid from the line item that contains the Ohio Public Works Funding. A roll call vote was heard with Hunker, Smay, Robey, Harris, and Agnew voting yes. The motion carried.
Mr. Hunker made a motion and Mr. Harris seconded to approve payment of an invoice from Shultz Ford in the amount of $4,227.75 for cruiser repairs. A roll call vote was heard with Hunker, Smay, Robey, Harris, and Agnew voting yes. The motion carried.
Mr. Robey made a motion and Rev. Agnew seconded to excuse Mr. Echemann and Mr. Schramm from tonight’s meeting. After an affirmative voice vote, the motion carried.
Motion was made by Rev. Agnew and seconded by Mr. Robey to note that Council has reviewed and accepted the Auditor’s Payroll Summary and New Hire/Termination/Retirement Report. After an affirmative voice vote, the motion carried.
Mr. Hunker 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. Robey. After an affirmative voice vote, the motion passed.
Mr. Harris moved to adjourn, which was seconded by Mr. Robey. After an affirmative voice vote, the meeting was adjourned at 6:12 p.m. with a salute to the flag.
The next meeting of the Martins Ferry Council will be on Wednesday, September 16, 2026 at 5:30 p.m. in Council Chambers.
___________________________________ ___________________________________
Kay H. McFarlan, Clerk of Council Phil Wallace, Council President
___________________________________
Date
Posted on: September 3, 2026
The Martins Ferry City Council met in Regular Session on Wednesday, August 19, 2026 at 5:30 p.m., in the Donald Myers Council Chambers. The meeting was called to order by Council President Phil Wallace 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, Spencer Echemann, Second Ward Council Member; Andrew Smay, Third Ward Council Member; Ryan Robey, Fourth Ward Council Member; Gus Harris, James Agnew and Jim Schramm, Council at Large Members.
Minutes: Minutes of the August 5, 2026 Council Meeting were approved as written.
Correspondence: There was no correspondence.
Reports of Officers of the City:
Mayor: Last week a tractor trailer hit a fire hydrant on the corner of 4th Street and Grant Street. The Water Plant had to be shut down and the city went dry. Water Department Employees got the problem fixed quickly and restored water to the citizens. A company will be secured to relocate this hydrant without disrupting water service to residents. Mayor Davies explained the plan for valve replacements.
After being turned down the first time, Mayor Davies believes that the city will be awarded a $750,000 grant for the 6th Street Project. Total cost of this job is unknown at this time but the city will have to pay the difference between the grant money and the cost of the project.
Beretta Road Project – The storm drains are in and the curb and gutter installations are progressing. After receiving calls regarding discontinuance of water, the Mayor told the Project Engineer if the water needs shut off, it must be handled by a Water Department Employee.
North Ridge Project – The Mayor said the city may possibly have to pay an additional $3,500 because of inaccurate measurements given to the Project Engineer by someone they hired.
The second Packer is back up and running again.
Last week, the city received 2 ½ inches of rain in approximately 40 minutes. Mayor Davies distributed several pictures of pipe damage caused by the water runoff on the 1100 block of Hughes Avenue and also on Cemetery Road. He explained the problems associated with each area. Mr. Harris asked if the trash can found in the pipe on Cemetery Road, was vandalism or weather related. The Mayor said he hoped it was an accidental incident and not purposely done. Crews are going to build a grate to stop some of the debri from getting in the pipes. Mr. Smay asked about metal or concrete barriers to protect the fire hydrants in high traffic truck routes. The Mayor said barriers have been used but trucks run over those too.
Service Director: Mr. Sutak was unable to attend this meeting.
Auditor: Mr. Regis distributed the Payroll Summary, New Hire/Termination Report and Statement of Cash Position. He would like Council to have a workshop to look at the budget next year and brainstorm about some of the issues the city will be facing next year.
Law Director: No report.
Police Department: No report.
Fire Department: Chief Smith reported that Sunday afternoon and evening were very busy. He thanked the Police Dispatchers and members of Fire Department for the great job they did handling all the calls that came in during that very short period of time.
Code Administrator: Miss Yeso was unable to attend this meeting.
Park District: No report.
Water Department: No report.
Reports of Committees of Council:
Finance and Audit: The committee met on August 12 to discuss the carry over balance in the General Fund. Mr. Hunker liked the suggestion of having a workshop with Council and the Administration, to take a hard look at the budget for next year. A date for the workshop will be set when Mr. Sutak returns to work. Minutes of this meeting will be filed with these minutes.
Street: No report.
Ordinance: No report.
Sewer/Sidewalk: No report but Mr. Echemann commented that he also like the idea of having a workshop to discuss next year’s budget.
Safety: No report.
Service: No report.
Cemetery: No report.
Public Relations: No report.
Code Administration: No report.
Real Estate/Building and Grounds: No report.
Utility: No report.
Income Tax: No report.
Citizens To Be Heard: President Wallace reminded citizens to limit their speaking to 5 minutes.
Richard Hord, 915 Virginia Street, thanked Council for their support of the Town Hall Meeting on August 13. On September 24 at 6:00 p.m., the Martins Ferry Public Library will host a “Meet the Candidates” Session. Mr. Hord thanked all those involved in getting the water lines fixed on August 11. When asked about the swimming pool season this year, the Mayor said the pool, along with the Recreation Center, is something that is a luxury the city offers to its citizens and is currently financially stable. Mr. Harris said he has received positive feedback on the 2 hour free parking in the business district. The Mayor said he may attend the bankruptcy hearing for the former East Ohio Regional Hospital. The City Building roof had to be patched today due to a leak in Council Chambers.
Greg Chesonis, 1112 Hughes Avenue, inquired about the situation of the sewer lines in front of his house that was damaged by recent rain storms. Mayor Davies explained several issues involved in this area of Hughes Avenue. A company from Pittsburgh will be hired to look at and clean the sewers on Hughes Avenue, Cemetery Road and one near the American Legion. Mayor Davies said he would let Mr. Chesonis know what date the sewer company will be scheduled to be in Martins Ferry.
Ordinances and Resolutions:
An Ordinance Establishing Pool Maintenance Requirements And Penalties For Failure To Maintain Residential Swimming Pools.
This Ordinance was given a first reading. Mr. Harris made a motion and Rev. Agnew seconded to suspend the rules. A roll call vote was heard with Harris, Agnew, Schramm, Hunker, and Echemann voting yes. Smay and Robey voted no. The motion carried. This Ordinance will go to a second reading.
An Ordinance Approving Amending Chapter 193, Income Tax Sections 193.03 And 193.04 Of The Administrative Code Of The City Of Martins Ferry, Ohio To Provide For Imposition Of Annual Income Tax Rate Of Two Percent (2.00%) Per Year On Income On Or After January 1, 2028 And Declaring An Emergency.
This Ordinance was given a first reading. This Ordinance will go to a second reading.
AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE CITY OF MARTINS
FERRY TO ENTER INTO A CONTRACT FOR THE ZANE
HIGHWAY 12” WATERLINE CONNECTION TO AETNA
STREET BOOSTER STATION AND DECLARING AN
EMERGENC
Miscellaneous Business:
Motion was made by Mr. Hunker and seconded by Mr. Echemann to note that Council has reviewed and accepted the Auditor’s Payroll Summary, New Hire/Termination Report and Statement of Cash Position. A roll call vote was heard with Hunker, Echemann, Smay, Robey, Harris, Agnew and Schramm 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. Robey. After an affirmative voice vote, the motion passed.
Mr. Echemann moved to adjourn, which was seconded by Mr. Harris. After an affirmative voice vote, the meeting was adjourned at 6:14 p.m. with a salute to the flag.
The next meeting of the Martins Ferry Council will be on Wednesday, September 2, 2026 at 5:30 p.m. in Council Chambers.
___________________________________ ___________________________________
Kay H. McFarlan, Clerk of Council Phil Wallace, Council President
___________________________________
Date
Posted on: August 20, 2026
The Martins Ferry City Council met in Regular Session on Wednesday, August 5, 2026 at 5:30 p.m., in the Donald Myers Council Chambers. The meeting was called to order by Council President Phil Wallace 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, Spencer Echemann, Second Ward Council Member; Andrew Smay, Third Ward Council Member; Ryan Robey, Fourth Ward Council Member; Gus Harris and James Agnew, Council at Large Members. Jim Schramm, Council at Large Member was unable to attend this meeting.
Minutes: Minutes of the July 15, 2026 Council Meeting were approved as written.
Correspondence: The Clerk received an email regarding a public records request from Ken Deloian, Data Acquisition Specialist at SmartProcure. The request is for PO/Vendor Information. This email was forwarded to the City’s Finance Department.
Reports of Officers of the City:
Mayor: Martins Ferry was rejected for Emergency Grant Funding for the 6th Street Project. Mr. Sutak reached out to our State Representatives who advised the city to reapply and submit more pictures of the damage. A new application is being worked on. This will be a million dollar project. If funding is received, 90% of the cost will be covered by the grant and 10% will be covered by the city.
The Beretta Road Project is progressing. Work is being done on the curbs and gutters which means they are almost done with the drainage part of the job. Paving and guard rails will be the final aspect of the project.
North Ridge/Overlook Project – Work will begin as soon as the power lines are moved out of the work area on Overlook Drive. The Mayor explained there may possibly be a problem with the Geotech and bedrock, which may result in an additional cost to the city.
The Fifth Street Project is finally completed. The man-hole covers and valves have been raised and the striping is finished.
Service Director: No report. Mr. Sutak was unable to attend this meeting.
Auditor: Mr. Regis was unable to attend this meeting but supplied a Statement of Cash Position and the July Financial Reports for Council Members. He also left a Purchase Order for Council to approve.
Law Director: No report.
Police Department: Chief West distributed the July, 2026 Department’s Report. He said that the Betty Zane Festival went well with only a few incidents that his officers needed to handle.
Fire Department: Chief Smith thanked the membership, community, vendors and sponsors who assisted in making the Betty Zane Days a success.
Safety Director: The Ordinance Committee met yesterday to discuss the recommendation from the Mayor and City Council to enact a Pool Ordinance. Law Director Stecker is currently reviewing this Ordinance and it should be ready by next week for Council. Eighteen letters have already been drafted for pool violations and are ready to be sent once the Ordinance is passed. Home Owners will be fined if there is a health or safety issue discovered with their pool.
The planters, purchased through a grant from the JB Green Team, have been delivered. Ms. Yeso thanked Ferry Hardware for receiving this merchandise. A special “thank-you” was given to Councilman Robey and Councilman Smay for helping to get these planters in place. A “planting” date will be determined when the weather conditions are favorable.
City officials met with a Representative regarding the approval of the Code Administration part of the GovPilot program. Contract registration and permit distribution should go live on August 15.
Code Administrator: No report.
Park District: No report.
Water Department: No report.
Reports of Committees of Council:
Finance and Audit: Mr. Hunker set a Finance Committee Meeting for Wednesday, August 12 at 10:00 a.m. in Council Chambers. He will notify Mr. Schramm of this meeting.
Street: No report.
Ordinance: The committee met on August 4 to discuss the Ordinance for maintaining Pools in the city. Also discussed were two possible Ordinances for future consideration: Vacant Properties and “Non Approved” Businesses.
Sewer/Sidewalk: No report.
Safety: No report.
Service: No report.
Cemetery: No report.
Public Relations: Mr. Echemann did not give a report but thanked the Fire Department for a successful Betty Zane Days Event.
Code Administration: No report.
Real Estate/Building and Grounds: No report.
Utility: No report.
Income Tax: No report.
Citizens To Be Heard: President Wallace reminded citizens to limit their speaking to 5 minutes.
Richard Hord, 915 Virginia Street, reminded Council of the Town Hall Meeting with the Belmont County Commissioners on Thursday, August 13, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. at the Martins Ferry Public Library. He also congratulated the Fire Department for a wonderful Betty Zane Days Festival. Mayor Davies explained how citizens, who would like to have their water lines checked for lead, can contact the City’s Utility Office to schedule an inspection. There were no updates on repairs to the city building. Belmont County will control the sale of the former East Ohio Regional Hospital Building.
Ordinances and Resolutions:
An Ordinance Approving Amending Chapter 193, Income Tax Sections 193.03 And 193.04 Of The Administrative Code Of The City Of Martins Ferry, Ohio To Provide For Imposition Of Annual Income Tax Rate Of Two Percent (2.00%) Per Year On Income On Or After January 1, 2027 And Declaring An Emergency.
Mr. Hunker made a motion to table this Ordinance (since the filing date has passed) and asked Law Director Stecker to prepare another Ordinance updating the dates for next year’s Primary Election. Motion was seconded by Rev. Agnew. After discussion, a roll call vote was heard with Hunker, Smay, Robey, Harris, and Agnew voting yes. Mr. Echemann abstained. 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. Hunker made a motion and Mr. Echemann seconded to approve a purchase order of $3,500.39 to Totterdale Brothers Supply Company. This was for parts, needed by the Water Department, for a water break on Sunday near the Unified Bank. After discussion, a roll call vote was heard with Hunker, Echemann, Smay, Robey, Harris, and Agnew voting yes. Motion carried.
Mr. Echemann made a motion and Mr. Robey seconded to note that Council has reviewed and approved the Statement of Cash Position and the July Financial Reports. Hearing no discussion, a roll call vote was heard with Echemann, Smay, Robey, Harris, Agnew and Hunker voting yes. Motion carried.
Rev. Agnew made a motion to excuse Mr. Schramm from tonight’s meeting. Mr. Echemann seconded the motion. After an affirmative voice vote, the motion passed.
Mr. Hunker 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. Robey. After an affirmative voice vote, the motion passed.
Rev. Agnew moved to adjourn, which was seconded by Mr. Smay. After an affirmative voice vote, the meeting was adjourned at 5:55 p.m. with a salute to the flag.
The next meeting of the Martins Ferry Council will be on Wednesday, August 19, 2026 at 5:30 p.m. in Council Chambers.
___________________________________ ___________________________________
Kay H. McFarlan, Clerk of Council Phil Wallace, Council President ___________________________________
Date
Posted on: August 11, 2026
The City is currently experiencing a major main water line break, the water plant is shut down at this time and the outage has affected the whole city. Please be patient as our city workers are doing their best to restore service. There is NO ETA for restoration of the water at this time. Thank You!
Posted on: August 6, 2026
The Martins Ferry City Council met in Regular Session on Wednesday, July 15, 2026 at 5:30 p.m., in the Donald Myers Council Chambers. The meeting was called to order by Council President Phil Wallace 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, Spencer Echemann, Second Ward Council Member; Ryan Robey, Fourth Ward Council Member; Gus Harris, James Agnew and Jim Schramm, Council at Large Members. Andrew Smay, Third Ward Council Member, was not at this meeting due to Military duty.
Before this meeting, a budget hearing was held for the Public at 5:00 p.m. No one voiced any concerns at this meeting.
President Wallace stated Council operates under Robert’s Rules of Order. Committee Assignments were distributed at the beginning of the year. An Ordinance, that will be read later in this meeting regarding increasing the city income tax, should have gone to the Income Tax Committee and then to the Ordinance Committee. This kind of action will not be tolerated in the future. If it happens again, the person taking this action could be censored.
Minutes: The minutes of the July 1, 2026 Council Meeting were approved as written.
Correspondence: There was no correspondence.
Reports of Officers of the City:
Mayor: Mayor Davies reported that there are about 6-8 pools in town that are unattended, stink and are breeding mosquitos. There are no Ordinances that puts this situation in violation. The Mayor asked Council to consider creating an Ordinance that would address neglected and stagnant swimming pools.
As a project for Eagle Scouts, a young man cut grass, painted poles and cleaned up the Betty Zane Cemetery. He did a phenomenal job and the Mayor will recognize this young man at a future Council Meeting for his dedication to the city.
Paving on Fifth Street is finished but still needs striped. There is about $93,000 in the budget for paving. The Mayor asked Council to recommend 2-3 streets in a row that need paved before the weather gets bad. He suggested 7th Street, from Center Street to Ellett Street as well as patching Mackey Avenue.
The Mayor encouraged the Finance Committee to meet with Mr. Regis to discuss funding for many projects that need completed in the city.
Service Director: Mr. Sutak has received the Engineer’s report for the 6th Street slip. He would like the Street Committee to meet and discuss funding for this project. President Wallace asked Mr. Robey to contact Mr. Smay about setting up a Street Committee Meeting.
Last Friday night, a fire hydrant was destroyed across from the Liberty Fire Station. Chief West will give a report to Mr. Sutak who will then file a claim with the City’s Insurance Company.
The bid for the Overlook/North Ridge Drive Project will be awarded to the Ohio-West Virginia Excavating Company. This will also be discussed at a future Street Committee Meeting.
All the paperwork has been done for the Opportunity Zone and has been submitted to the Ohio Department of Development. Hopefully Martins Ferry will become one of the Zones to receive help to attract new businesses.
For City Income Tax purposes, Mr. Sutak notified Mr. Regis about a new company moving into the old Carolina Freight building.
Auditor: Mr. Regis asked Council to make a motion to note they have received and reviewed the Statement of Cash Position, Payroll Summary and New Hire/Termination/Retirement/Change Report.
Mr. Regis reviewed the financial aspects of the North Ridge/Overlook Drive Project.
Regarding creating a capital fund line item for a new packer, Mr. Regis emailed the State Auditors for direction on how to proceed with this task.
An invoice from Border Patrol Construction, amounting to $72,959, will have to be approved by Council. This is the company that fixed the sanitary sewer near Broadway Gardens. Mr. Sutak mentioned there are a few more sewer issues that will have to be dealt with in the future due to old infrastructures.
Law Director: No report.
Police Department: Chief West reported there is video of the fire hydrant being hit near the Liberty Fire Station. The video is dark but it’s being sent away to see if it can be lightened to recover any helpful information. The Mayor suggested attaching a camera to the Liberty Fire Station since WIFI would be available. The Department is looking into grants for traffic (not flock) cameras. Mr. Sutak will check on the cameras in the city park.
The Chief reminded Council Members that the third reading of the Ordinance for the Electric Bikes will be read tonight. He is still getting complaints, but not as many since the public is becoming aware of safety regulations.
Fire Department: No report.
Safety Director: Chief West’s performance review went very well. Due to the financial situation of the city, he has decided to forego the payments that were promised to him. Quarterly meetings will be continued so progress of the Department can be monitored.
Miss Yeso has spoken to the owners of a neglected swimming pool in the city but they are resistant to do anything about it. However they have been fined for high grass and weeds. A few other pool owners in town have been encouraged to take their pools down or clean up the situation. Law Director Stecker said there is a General Nuisance Ordinance but he recommends doing a new Ordinance to specifically target swimming pools.
Violations have been sent out this week for high weeds and grass. These situations must be corrected within 48 hours or the owners will have to appear in Mayor’s Court.
GovPilot is proceeding well. Three tablets have been purchased for the Police Department to use when officers are in the field.
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: There will be a third reading for the Electric Bike Ordinance and a first reading for the Ordinance to Increase to the City Income Tax.
Sewer/Sidewalk: No report.
Safety: No report.
Service: No report.
Cemetery: No report.
Public Relations: Mr. Echemann commented that the 4th of July Celebration was great and thanked all those who helped make it a successful event.
Code Administration: No report.
Real Estate/Building and Grounds: No report.
Utility: No report.
Income Tax: No report.
Citizens To Be Heard: President Wallace reminded citizens to limit their speaking to 5 minutes.
Larry Deaton, 1102 North 9th Street, is a school bus driver and is concerned with the conditions of 7th Street and Mackey Avenue. He urged Council to get these roads paved before school starts. Also, Mr. Deaton is concerned about a cable that runs up 6th Street and around to 8th Street. It’s low enough to be touched and the wrapped end has fallen twice. Mr. Sutak said he would check on this.
Mike Bianconi, resident of Bridgeport, Ohio and a Belmont County Pease Township Trustee, thanked all those involved in the Beretta Drive/Crawford Heights Project. Mr. Larry Riser was specifically thanked for cutting the grass and keeping the property looking nice.
Richard Hord, 915 Virginia Street, said that on Sunday, July 19, Mr. Don Falbo, a local barber, will be celebrating 70 years of business in the same location on 5th Street. A Town Hall Meeting with the Belmont County Commissioners will be held on Thursday, August 13 at 6:00 p.m. at the Martins Ferry Public Library. Everything is ready for Betty Zane Days, which will be held July 29-August 1. Mr. Sutak gave a report on activities at the Recreation Center.
Don Kline, 1010 Dutch Hill Road, suggested the city pave Vineway Road, between Crawford Heights and Terrace Road, which is crumbling and contains many potholes. He also thanked Mike Bianconi for the work being done in Crawford Heights.
Ordinances and Resolutions:
An Ordinance Regulating The Operation Of Electric Bicycles, Motorized Bicycles, Motorized Scooters, And Other Low-Speed Micro-Mobility Devices Within The City Of Martins Ferry, Ohio And Providing For Safety Requirements, Operational Restrictions, Penalties, Impoundment And Enforcement.
This Ordinance was given a third reading. Motion was made by Mr. Hunker and seconded by Rev. Agnew to pass the Ordinance as read. A roll call vote was heard with Hunker, Echemann, Robey, Harris, Agnew and Schramm, voting yes. The motion carried and the Ordinance was declared passed.
A Resolution Adopting A Budget For The City Of Martins Ferry For The Fiscal Year Beginning January 1, 2027, And Declaring An Emergency.
This Resolution was given a first reading. A motion was made by Mr. Harris and seconded by Rev. Agnew to suspend the rules. A roll call vote was heard with Harris, Agnew, Schramm, Hunker, Echemann, and Robey voting yes. The motion carried. Motion was made by Mr. Schramm and seconded by Mr. Echemann to pass the Ordinance as read. A roll call vote was heard with Schramm, Hunker, Echemann, Robey, Harris, and Agnew voting yes. The motion carried and the Resolution was declared passed.
An Ordinance Approving Amending Chapter 193, Income Tax Sections 193.03 And 193.04 Of The Administrative Code Of The City Of Martins Ferry, Ohio To Provide For Imposition Of Annual Income Tax Rate Of Two Percent (2.00%) Per Year On Income On Or After January 1, 2027 And Declaring An Emergency.
This Ordinance was given a first reading. This Ordinance will go to a second reading.
AN ORDINANCE AUTHORIZING THE CITY OF MARTINS
FERRY TO ENTER INTO A CONTRACT FOR THE ZANE
HIGHWAY 12” WATERLINE CONNECTION TO AETNA
STREET BOOSTER STATION AND DECLARING AN
EMERGENC
Miscellaneous Business:
Mr. Hunker made a motion and Rev. Agnew seconded to approve payment of the $72,959 invoice to Border Control Construction for repairs done on the sink hole and the sanitary sewer system near Broadway Gardens. A roll call vote was heard with Hunker, Echemann, Robey, Harris, Agnew and Schramm, 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. Robey. After an affirmative voice vote, the motion passed.
Mr. Echemann gave an update on the repairs to the Live Stream System. The laptop died and a new one has been ordered and should arrive on Friday. Hopefully by the next meeting the system will be up and running.
Mr. Echemann made a motion and Rev. Agnew seconded to note that Council has received and reviewed the Statement of Cash Position, New Hire/Termination/Retirement/Change Report, and the Payroll Summary from the Auditor. After an affirmative voice vote, the motion carried.
Mr. Echemann made a motion and Mr. Robey seconded to excuse Mr. Smay from tonight’s meeting. After an affirmative voice vote, the motion passed.
Mr. Echemann moved to adjourn, which was seconded by Rev. Agnew. After an affirmative voice vote, the meeting was adjourned at 6:16 p.m. with a salute to the flag.
The next meeting of the Martins Ferry Council will be on Wednesday, August 5, 2026 at 5:30 p.m. in Council Chambers.
___________________________________ ___________________________________
Kay H. McFarlan, Clerk of Council Phil Wallace, Council President
___________________________________
Date
Posted on: July 17, 2026
The Martins Ferry City Council met in Regular Session on Wednesday, July 1, 2026 at 5:30 p.m., in the Donald Myers Council Chambers. The meeting was called to order by Council President Phil Wallace 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, Spencer Echemann, Second Ward Council Member; Andrew Smay, Third Ward Council Member; Ryan Robey, Fourth Ward Council Member; Gus Harris, James Agnew and Jim Schramm, Council at Large Members.
Minutes: A corrected copy of the June 3, 2026 Council Minutes and minutes of the June 17, 2026 Council Meeting were approved as written.
Correspondence: There was no correspondence.
Reports of Officers of the City:
Mayor: Work has begun on Beretta Drive. Paving has begun on Fifth Street and should finish up this week. The company paving Fifth Street will stripe it from Ellett Street to Hanover Street. The city will have to get a price on striping Ellett Street to Center Street.
The Celebration in the Park will begin at noon on Friday, July 3. There will be a D.J., bands, vendors and food trucks. A fireworks show will begin at dusk. There will be a free swim at the pool and the number of participants may be limited to 150, depending on the number of lifeguards available. The Mayor asked that city officials attend the celebration, mingle with the citizens and show their support for the event.
Service Director: Mr. Sutak is working on an Opportunity Zone, available through the Department of Development, to attract industrial and commercial businesses to the city. Mr. Sutak would like to have a Resolution passed and a letter from President Wallace and Council stating the city supports the Opportunity Zone.
The sink hole over a sanitary sewer, near Broadway Gardens, proved to be too large of a job for city crews so a company was contracted to finish the job. Another part of this sewer may have to be investigated so it can be known how this line runs. The city has a lot of old infrastructure and funding needs to be sought to help alleviate some of the problems. Increasing the city income tax was mentioned as a possibility to the funding problems.
Mr. Sutak thanked city crews for fixing up the fountain, polishing the WWI Statue, and cleaning up the park for the July 3rd festivities. Mr. Larry Riser was also commended for cutting the grass along Route 7 and keeping it looking nice.
The Well Field cameras have been installed and are now operating.
Auditor: Mr. Regis could not attend this meeting but provided the statement of cash reports for Council. The 2027 Budget will be ready for the July 15th meeting to be voted on. A Public Hearing on the budget will be held at 5:00 p.m. before the Council Meeting on July 15.
Law Director: No report.
Police Department: Chief West distributed the June, 2026 Activity Report for the Department. The K-9 Officer received a safety vest that was donated by the local chapter of Warthogs. The vest was given in memory of a deputy that passed away a few years ago.
Fire Department: Chief Smith stated that the second quarterly report will be submitted tomorrow. During the second quarter, the department responding to 56 calls. EMS responded to 314 calls. On June 5, the department received the final abatement paperwork from the Bureau of Worker’s Compensation for violations received. Personal face pieces have been received for each member and Council was thanked for providing the funding for these purchases. The Department has also received a shipment of new intake valves which will replace the 2 intake valves on each apparatus.
Safety Director: Thirty-two violations will be sent out this week which will net the city $4,600 if all violations are paid. The GovPilot Project has begun and should be up and running by the end of July. Planters have been ordered and should arrive within 7-10 days. Ferry Hardware has offered to assist in setting the planters since they have a forklift truck. Ms. Yeso asked Mr. Schramm to set up a Safety Committee Meeting to review the quarterly activities for Chief West. Mr. Harris asked Ms. Yeso to check on a couple of properties on North 7th Street.
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 June 22, 2026. The Service Director gave a report on the estimated costs of numerous repairs and projected repairs that will need funded. He projected a loss of $142,000 from the closing of East Ohio Regional Hospital. Mr. Hunker said the city will need to prepare for adjustments to the budget next year. Mr. Harris suggested starting the process of putting a levy on the ballot next year to increase the city’s income tax.
Street: No report.
Ordinance: No report.
Sewer/Sidewalk: No report.
Safety: No report.
Service: No report.
Cemetery: No report.
Public Relations: No report.
Code Administration: No report.
Real Estate/Building and Grounds: No report.
Utility: No report.
Income Tax: No report.
Citizens To Be Heard: President Wallace reminded citizens to limit their speaking to 5 minutes.
Richard Hord, 915 Virginia Street, inquired about funding for the Fireworks Display on July 3. Mayor Davies said the cost of the fireworks has been completely funded. Currently, there are no plans to fund a new city building. The former East Ohio Regional Hospital building will be up for auction on September 2. The situation at the Austin Masters Building has been completely resolved. The Chamber of Commerce is still operating out of the Recreation Center but currently has no Executive Director.
Ordinances and Resolutions:
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 third reading. Mr. Echemann made a motion and Mr. Smay seconded to pass this Ordinance as read. A roll call vote was heard with Echemann, Smay, Robey, Harris, Agnew, Schramm, and Hunker voting yes. The motion carried and the Ordinance was declared passed.
An Ordinance Regulating The Operation Of Electric Bicycles, Motorized Bicycles, Motorized Scooters, And Other Low-Speed Micro-Mobility Devices Within The City Of Martins Ferry, Ohio And Providing For Safety Requirements, Operational Restrictions, Penalties, Impoundment And Enforcement.
This Ordinance was given a second reading. Mr. Schramm made a motion and Mr. Hunker seconded to suspend the rules for three readings. A roll call vote was heard with Schramm, Hunker, Harris and Agnew voting yes. Echemann, Smay and Robey voted no. The motion was defeated.
President Wallace asked Council Members to review the Resolution regarding adopting a budget for the city for the fiscal year 2027. This Resolution will have to be passed at the next Council Meeting on July 15. A public hearing needs to be held before the July 15 Council Meeting. Mr. Hunker made a motion and Rev. Agnew seconded to hold a Public Hearing regarding the 2027 Budget on July 15, 2026 at 5:00 p.m. A roll call vote was heard with Hunker, Echemann, Smay, Robey, Harris, Agnew and Schramm 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 thank Larry Riser for mowing the grass and keeping Route 7 looking nice.
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. Echemann made a motion and Mr. Harris seconded to note that Council has received and reviewed the Statement of Cash Position. After an affirmative voice vote, the motion carried.
Mr. Smay made a motion and Mr. Echemann seconded to ask Law Director Stecker to create a letter indicating Council’s support for Martins Ferry being designated as an Opportunity Zone. Mr. Sutak will then have every Council Member sign the letter. A roll call vote was heard with Smay, Robey, Harris, Agnew, Schramm, Hunker, and Echemann voting yes. The motion carried.
Mr. Smay spoke of a proposed data center possibly locating in Warwood, WV, which is only 1400 feet away from Martins Ferry. Concerns have been raised about Data Centers including: noise pollution, light pollution, waste water pollution and air quality. Mr. Smay attended a Town Hall Meeting in Warwood and spoke to many local and state leaders, including WV State Senator Laura Wakim-Chapman, about the health and welfare of the citizens of both Ohio and West Virginia. Because of recently passed legislation, the State of West Virginia will regulate data centers which will include environmental impact studies, especially near schools and residential areas. County Commissioners have been notified that a potential data center may come to Belmont County. Mr. Smay suggested the city consider placing audio sensors that would detect both audible and infrasound around the city, which could establish a baseline of the environment before any data center is established. This could create a legal baseline to show if a data center is negatively affecting the environment. Such data could be used for future legal action.
Mr. Hunker moved to adjourn, which was seconded by Rev. Agnew. After an affirmative voice vote, the meeting was adjourned at 6:19 p.m. with a salute to the flag.
The next meeting of the Martins Ferry Council will be on Wednesday, July 15, 2026 at 5:30 p.m. in Council Chambers. A budget hearing will be held at 5:00 p.m. on July 15 before this Council Meeting.
___________________________________ ___________________________________
Kay H. McFarlan, Clerk of Council Phil Wallace, Council President
___________________________________
Date
Posted on: July 2, 2026
The Martins Ferry City Council met in Regular Session on Wednesday, June 17, 2026 at 5:30 p.m., in the Donald Myers Council Chambers. The meeting was called to order by Council President Phil Wallace with the Pledge of Allegiance recited by those present in chamber, followed by a prayer by the Clerk. Answering Roll Call were Spencer Echemann, Second Ward Council Member; Andrew Smay, Third Ward Council Member; Gus Harris, James Agnew and Jim Schramm, Council at Large Members. Excused: Bob Hunker, First Ward Council Member and Ryan Robey, Fourth Ward Council Member.
Minutes: Minutes of the June 3, 2026 Regular Council Meeting were approved after the correct spelling of Sadie Absalom’s last name was noted. She spoke regarding concerns about the Flock Cameras.
Correspondence: A letter was received from Vanessa Berhalter regarding property she owns on 4th Street that might be considered for a new city building.
Reports of Officers of the City:
Mayor: Mayor Davies reported there have been many infrastructure challenges in the last two weeks including fallen trees, broken sewers and water line breaks.
Weather permitting, work will begin on 5th Street tomorrow. Chief West was asked to close Short Street while work is being done on a Catch Basin. Fifth Street will be closed to traffic during working hours, except for United Dairy traffic. The Contractor is hopefully the project will be finished by July 4.
Service Director: The city has received $90,000 from Accent for lease property in the Crawford Heights area. This money was deposited in the General Fund. Mr. Sutak would like it put in the Permanent Improvement Fund to possibly help fund projects such as the slip on 6th Street or the City Building roof.
The City Building Roof has been leaking into the Police Department’s Evidence Room. Mansuetto Roofing has been contacted to find the leak and prepare a temporary patch. A quote of $2,150 per crew, per day (not to exceed $10,000) was received. Money will come from the Building and Grounds line item. Mr. Sutak asked Council for permission to move forward on this contract.
Beretta Road Project – Crews have been working on reconfiguring the storm sewers.
North Ridge/Overlook Drive – The city has received over $800,000 in mitigation funds from FEMA for this road slippage. This project will be advertised for bid on June 25 – July 2. Bids will be opened on July 14 and the Engineering Company will then make a recommendation to the city.
A sanitary storm sewer erupted creating a major sink hole last Sunday near the Broadway Gardens Apartments. Repair costs will come from the Capital Projects – Sewer line item.
Sixth Street Project – The City’s Engineer is working on getting the application for emergency funding completed for this project. As requested by Mr. Sutak, a Service Committee Meeting was set for Monday, June 22 at 5:30 p.m. in Council Chambers. The Finance Committee will meet following this meeting.
City crews are clearing brush and catching up on grass cutting.
Last year, the Administration requested that 1% of the income tax money be placed into the Recreation Fund so a Director could be hired for the pool and Recreation Center. This issue will be brought to the attention of the Finance Committee which will be meeting after the Service Committee Meeting on June 22.
Auditor: A Payroll Summary, New Hire/Termination/Retirement Report, and a Statement of Cash Position was distributed to Council Members. Mr. Regis reported that the Auditors from Perry and Associates were in the office today and finished the “in house” information. It will take a couple of weeks to get the final report.
Law Director: No report.
Police Department: Chief West thanked Mr. Sutak for his quick response to the roof problem. To date, there have been 383 calls to the department this month. Because the department has been busy and employees have been on vacation, there hasn’t been an officer patrolling the park. The Chief spoke about the importance of the Motorized Bike and Scooter Ordinance. If it passes, he would like to hold an informational meeting in the Park to inspect bikes and scooters and assign each a license/identification number. This could help to locate a missing or stolen bike.
Fire Department: No report.
Code Administrator: No report.
Park District: No report.
Water Department: No report.
Reports of Committees of Council:
Finance and Audit: No report.
Street: No report.
Ordinance: No report.
Sewer/Sidewalk: No report.
Safety: No report.
Service: No report.
Cemetery: No report.
Public Relations: Mr. Echemann thanked everyone involved in the Strawberry Festival. Although the weather wasn’t great, it was a very nice event.
Code Administration: No report.
Real Estate/Building and Grounds: No report.
Utility: No report.
Income Tax: No report.
Citizens To Be Heard: President Wallace reminded citizens to limit their speaking to 5 minutes.
Richard Hord, 915 Virginia Street, also complimented everyone involved with the Strawberry Festival. Regarding the Parking Meters, the city doesn’t have the manpower to enforce the 2-hour customer parking rule. Council has not discussed buying property for a new city building which would probably cost around 2-3 million dollars. Mr. Harris suggested starting the process for increasing the income tax so the city could look into constructing a new city building. No updates were available regarding the former East Ohio Regional Hospital Building or the former Staffilino property. Mr. Hord asked the Mayor to consider giving a proclamation to the Deluxe Toy and Hobby store for being in business for over 70 years and having a positive impact on the city.
Ordinances and Resolutions:
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 second reading. This Ordinance will go to a third reading.
Motion was made by Mr. Echemann and seconded by Mr. Schramm to suspend the 72 Hour Rule for reading this Ordinance. A roll call vote was heard with Echemann, Smay, Harris, Agnew and Schramm voting yes. The motion carried and the Ordinance was given a first reading.
An Ordinance Regulating The Operation Of Electric Bicycles, Motorized Bicycles, Motorized Scooters, And Other Low-Speed Micro-Mobility Devices Within The City Of Martins Ferry, Ohio And Providing For Safety Requirements, Operational Restrictions, Penalties, Impoundment And Enforcement.
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:
Motion was made by Mr. Schramm and seconded by Mr. Harris to allow the Service Director to enter into a contract with Mansuetto Roofing to find the leaks in the roof of the city building and prepare a temporary patch. Funding, capped at $10,000, will come from the Building and Grounds line item. A roll call vote was heard with Schramm, Echemann, Smay, Harris, and Agnew voting yes. The motion carried.
Mr. Smay made a motion and Mr. Schramm seconded to excuse Mr. Robey and Mr. Hunker from tonight’s meeting. After an affirmative voice vote, the motion passed.
Mr. Schramm made a motion and Rev. Agnew seconded to move the $90,000 of lease money from the General Fund into the Permanent Improvement Fund. A roll call vote was heard with Schramm, Echemann, Smay, Harris, and Agnew voting yes. The motion carried.
The Mayor reminded Council that the Celebration in the Park will be on Friday, July 3, 12:00 noon until the fireworks (sponsored by Unified Bank). There will be a free swim, entertainment and food vendors. A banner and billboard will be purchased to advertise this event. Donations are being sought to help cover the cost of the fireworks. Fifteen U.S.A. flags have been displayed in the city and more have been ordered to be displayed in the City Park.
Mr. Schramm made a motion and Mr. Harris seconded to re-apply 1% of the income tax into the Recreation Fund in order to fund a Park and Pool Director. A roll call vote was heard with Schramm, Echemann, Smay, Harris, and Agnew 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 Rev. Agnew. After an affirmative voice vote, the motion passed.
Mr. Echemann made a motion and Rev. Agnew seconded to note that Council has received and reviewed the Statement of Cash Position, New Hire/Termination/Retirement/Change Report, and the Payroll Summary from the Auditor. A roll call vote was heard with Echemann, Smay, Harris, Agnew and Schramm voting yes. The motion carried.
Mr. Echemann moved to adjourn, which was seconded by Mr. Smay. After an affirmative voice vote, the meeting was adjourned at 6:20 p.m. with a salute to the flag.
The next meeting of the Martins Ferry Council will be on Wednesday, July 1, 2026 at 5:30 p.m. in Council Chambers.
___________________________________ ___________________________________
Kay H. McFarlan, Clerk of Council Phil Wallace, Council President
___________________________________
Date
