PHOTO BY RENEA KESSLER / THE VILLAGE REPORTER
ELECTRIC RATES … Council discussed potential upcoming electric bill rates with increases likely to be almost doubled from what they are now.
By: Renea Kessler
THE VILLAGE REPORTER
renea@thevillagereporter.com
The Lyons Village Council met for its regular session on Monday, November 3, at 7:00 p.m., beginning with the Pledge of Allegiance. Council members reviewed and approved minutes and financial reports before moving into updates and new business.
Discussion opened with updates regarding the recent waterline work on North Adrian Street, where a leak had developed shortly after a county repair. The issue was promptly fixed, though council members noted the area may require further patching or paving later in the season.
Council discussed the possibility of purchasing a used lift for seasonal maintenance projects such as hanging flags, Christmas decorations, and trimming trees.
While a quality used unit was estimated between $20,000 and $25,000, members agreed to continue renting as needed for the time being, noting the village typically spends $1,500 to $2,000 per year on rentals.
The start of leaf pickup, scheduled for November 6 to 10, and confirmation that trash day costs the village roughly $2,000 this year. Council also noted that bids for the upcoming water tower project would be opened at the Fulton County Commissioners’ Office on Thursday at 10:00 a.m.
It was noted that additional grant funding may be available to offset remaining project costs, including potential reimbursement for prior design expenses.
The discussion then turned to long-term water supply options. Representatives have been in contact with both the City of Wauseon and the Northeast Water District. Early conversations suggest the Northeast system may offer greater flexibility and future capacity, though a rate increase will be necessary regardless of which provider is selected.
Council members also noted the aging condition of the village’s older asbestos-concrete waterlines and potential grant opportunities to replace them.
Other updates included a review of a proposed $10,000 general contract with Verdantas Engineering for ongoing consultation and project work. The agreement, which will serve as a standing service contract for future needs, was approved by council.
In other business, the village confirmed it has received its annual supply of 22 tons of road salt at a cost of $1,500.
Preparations are underway for the annual Christmas parade on December 13, with Randy Baker announced as this year’s parade announcer. Parade letters were mailed on October 29, and additional volunteers may be added to help with staging.
Council approved payment of the $391.30 fee for the 2026 Fulton County Emergency Management Agency membership.
Electric rates were discussed at length, with council noting an increase from 5.69 cents to 9.09 cents per kilowatt-hour under the county’s new contract with Dynegy. The village’s energy broker is exploring alternative bids to potentially secure a lower rate.
Before adjournment, members reviewed the latest water loss report, which showed a 24 percent loss for September usage, or roughly half a million gallons.
The issue appears to be caused by a line leak outside the village limits. The Badger Meter representative is expected to visit soon to ensure system readings remain accurate.
The meeting concluded with a brief discussion about the possibility of adding license plate readers to the village’s existing camera system, which could be linked to the Fulton County Sheriff’s Office network. The meeting adjourned at 7:55 p.m.