DETAILING WORK TO BE DONE … Village Manager Justin Houk demonstrates the necessity of a valve in the water distribution system. (PHOTO BY ANNA WOZNIAK, STAFF)
By: Anna Wozniak
The February 27, 2023 Village of Montpelier Council meeting started at 6 p.m. with a prayer and the pledge of allegiance.
Roll call was taken, and present were Nikki Uribes, Director of Finance; Councilor Kevin Motter; Council President Chris Kannel; Clerk of Council Molly Collert; Clerk of Council Jessica Apple; presiding Councilor Nathan Thompson; Law Director Chris Walker; Village Manager Justin Houk; Councilor Don Schlosser; Councilor Heather Freese; and Councilor Melissa Ewers.
Council approved the agenda for the February 27, 2023 meeting as well as the minutes of the February 13, 2023 meeting.
Councilor Freese took a moment to thank all staff for their participation in the administration survey and said that anyone wishing to give an oral report to their survey may still contact her with anything they would like to add.
Thompson detailed the latest initiatives of NORTA, Northwest Ohio Rails to Trails Association, and Friends of the Park, Inc.
Council then approved Resolutions 1366 and 1367, which updated the maximum hourly wage allowed for both regular and supervisory employees, respectively, to meet new state requirements.
Council also approved Resolution 1368, which allowed for the village manager to contract with Bryan Excavating for the installation of a valve in the water distribution system.
Village Manager Justin Houk reported that 400 water nodes have gone bad because of bad batteries. More have been shipped in so that all old ones can be replaced.
The nodes were supposed to last 20 years and have only lasted two to three years, and so the company is honoring their guarantee and replacing them.
Some electric meters have been replaced, as well as wiring systems updated at many local residences.
The Iron Horse Trail is mostly clear from trees and is almost ready to go.
Council Schlosser made a movement to adjourn, which was seconded by Council President Kannel and unanimously approved at 5:18 p.m.
Anna can be reached at anna@thevillagereporter.com