PHOTO BY BRENNA WHITE / THE VILLAGE REPORTER
PROPERTY DISCUSSION … Commissioner Terry Rummel, County Auditor Vickie Grimm, and Commissioner President Scott Lirot review the 2026 projected demolition projects for the Williams County Land Bank.
By: Brenna White
THE VILLAGE REPORTER
publisher@thevillagereporter.com
The Williams County Land Reutilization Corporation Board of Directors met Thursday, February 12, 2026 to discuss potential future uses for property in Montpelier, demolition priorities, and several funding and policy matters.
One topic centered on the property at 220 Empire St. in Montpelier following a recent demolition of a vacant church.
Montpelier Administrator Jason Rockey asked what the next steps are for the roughly 1.3-acre commercially zoned parcel, noting village council had suggested the property could potentially be used by the neighboring VFW.
Land Bank Chairman Brian Wieland explained that once a property is listed as available on the website, interested parties may submit offers.
Rockey noted that the site may be too small for any commercial purposes, such as a gas station or drive-thru. He added the VFW has expressed interest in potentially adding an outdoor memorial feature.
Commissioner Terry Rummel also raised the possibility of the Land Bank assisting with demolition of a decommissioned tower located at 218 W. Bryan Street, Bryan.
The structure is approximately 120-feet tall and sits near homes and utility lines. The building currently lacks lighting, which causes issues for low-flying helicopters.
Rummel explained that the property owners are unable to fund the full demolition process. No formal action was taken, but further discussion with the Maumee Valley Planning Organization is expected.
Board members also reviewed the ongoing demolition projects for 2026. Two residential properties in Montpelier were slated as major priorities: 207 S. Jonesville St., Montpelier, and 523 Pleasant St., Montpelier. The final decision for the demo order will be decided soon.
A resolution adopting the Williams County’s cybersecurity policy was discussed, with a formal resolution to be passed next meeting.
Cheryl Andres of the Port Authority addressed the Land Bank to discuss potential empty lots. The Port Authority has been successful with their recent construction of new homes for the county – but they have run out of lots.
In order for the lots to be applicable, they have to be connected to city water and sewer systems. Discussion on how the Land Bank and Port Authority could work together was held.
Lastly, the Board agreed to advance $150,000 to a contractor for completed work. The reimbursement is expected through a state grant.
The meeting adjourned at 11:44 a.m. The next meeting is scheduled for March 12, 2026 in the East Annex Conference Room.