By: Renea Kessler
THE VILLAGE REPORTER
renea@thevillagereporter.com
The Village of Metamora convened on Monday, August 4, 2025, addressing a full slate of administrative updates, zoning concerns, and state-level mandates during its regularly scheduled meeting.
Following the Pledge of Allegiance and roll call, council approved the minutes from the July 21, 2025, meeting. Visitors Kathy Boger and Kristie May attended to discuss matters related to their property on East Main Street.
Council proceeded through official reports, beginning with the mayor’s and village fiscal officer’s updates.
Mayor Cathy Mossing noted that the village received a generous $1,080 donation toward the local volleyball league, with funds to benefit the park.
Council also reviewed topics concerning next year’s Evergreen Youth Association season, including responsibilities for field preparation and concessions.
Village Fiscal Officer Heather Lumbrezer informed members of a pending safety recall for the village’s 2022 Ford F-350, though a manufacturer remedy is not yet available.
She also confirmed that state auditors will begin reviewing the 2023 and 2024 financial years in the coming weeks. As part of statewide changes, the auditor’s office is expected to require a new cybersecurity policy for all local governments.
Council agreed that legal counsel would need to draft a formal ordinance once further details are available.
Also shared was the successful completion of Ixom’s annual lagoon inspection. The inspection covered machine operations, electronic systems, and routine maintenance.
All systems were reported to be in proper working order, and documentation was sent to IFM and Mike Stiles.
Additionally, Kyle’s pesticide license renewal was confirmed, with recertification courses required before the license expiration in September 2026.
Council approved payment of village bills before addressing a series of ongoing business items. The Crooks property at 367 West Main Street remains under review as officials finalize plans to connect the site to the storm sewer system.
Mike Stiles reported back on emergency lift station backup procedures, noting that United Rentals is available for free consultation regarding contingency planning.
Council members agreed to pass this information along to village staff members Anthony and Kyle.
Discussion also continued regarding Jacob Barnes of Zoning Solutions, who is assisting with updates to the village’s zoning and comprehensive plans.
The first invoice for his services has been received. Council considered scheduling a meeting with Barnes to better understand the process and determine how much of the work will be handled through consultant recommendations versus internal collaboration.
New business included deliberation over a proposed maintenance agreement with the Ohio Department of Transportation for signage along state routes within the village.
Council discussed whether to opt into the program but tabled the decision pending additional information. Zoning implications for a proposed behavioral group home operated by Community Teaching Homes were also briefly discussed.
During the village administrator and zoning inspector reports, several property and permit updates were shared. New complaints were received from T. Sullivan, and updates were requested regarding properties on North Monroe and South VandeSande.
Council learned that D. Mohr still has not submitted payment for an approved permit, prompting staff to follow up regarding the outstanding $20 fee.
A new fence permit from John Karpinski was also reviewed, involving an easement area near Witt’s residence. Questions were raised about whether a sign permit would be required for a Parker Hannifin replacement sign.
Lastly, council noted that the liability waiver for buildings near the former recycling center has yet to be picked up.
The meeting adjourned with no further business, and the next regular session is scheduled for Monday, August 18, 2025.