PHOTO BY JACOB KESSLER / THE VILLAGE REPORTER
PROCLAMATION … Officer Horst Wudi (right), Mayor Kathy Huner (center), and Police Chief Kevin Chittenden (left) during the reading of the proclamation honoring Wudi’s 55 years of service.
By: Jacob Kessler
THE VILLAGE REPORTER
jacob@thevillagereporter.com
The Wauseon City Council met for its regular session on Monday, October 20, 2025. Following the Pledge of Allegiance and a moment of silence, the council approved the minutes from its October 6 meeting and October 16 Committee of the Whole meeting.
The meeting then opened with a moment of recognition for Officer Horst Wudi, who was honored with a proclamation for 55 years of service in law enforcement.
Wudi began his career with the Wauseon Police Auxiliary in 1970, became a full-time patrolman in 1971, and has served in multiple roles, including lieutenant in 1991.
The proclamation, issued by Mayor Kathy Huner, recognized his many decades of dedication to the Fulton County and Wauseon community.
Committee reports followed, with the Finance Committee recommending the approval of $40,000 in funding for the 2026 Independence Day fireworks celebration and the 250th birthday of our country. This is an increase from $35,000 in the previous year.
A motion was made to approve the recommendation, which passed. The Park Board then reported on recent discussions regarding maintenance at the pool, including redoing the flooring and addressing fencing issues at Biddle Park.
There were also conversations about cleaning work at Rotary, but no formal action was taken.
During department head reports, the fire department discussed recent community events, including the Fireman’s Association pancake breakfast during Spooktacular.
Plans for Halloween activities, including trick-or-treating from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. and trunk-or-treat at 5:00 p.m., were also shared. Police Chief Kevin Chittenden reminded residents about Drug Takeback Day and the drop box located in the department’s lobby, which is available 24/7.
He also encouraged safe driving during Halloween and trick-or-treating. Upcoming initiatives also include the annual Christmas for Kids program on December 13.
Next, the finance director reported that the audit remains in progress, and budget worksheets are due by October 31. Property casualty insurance applications are due December 4, and medical insurance rates for 2026 are expected to increase only slightly.
The law director reported no major updates but noted the success of the recent cross-country meet at Homecoming Park.
Legislation was then introduced with two resolutions, 2025-22, regarding an agreement for indigent defense services with Fulton County Commissioners, and 2025-23, involving a cooperative agreement with Fulton County for road repairs on County Road 14. Both were approved on first reading.
New business included the approval of an annual preventive maintenance agreement with Dunbar Mechanical for HVAC services beginning in 2026. Council also scheduled the city’s 2026 Independence Day fireworks celebration for July 2nd.
The mayor then presented the Public Service Director’s report on behalf of Keith Torbet, who was unable to attend the meeting. The report covered infrastructure work from throughout the city, including recent street repairs, park maintenance, and utility projects.
Torbet highlighted continued coordination between the city, township, and county on shared improvements, noting that several projects have involved city resources and funding.
Torbet’s report included discussion on how the city works with the township and county on shared projects, including several that have used city funds.
Several street and facility maintenance items were also outlined, including recent paving work, routine upkeep around city parks, and preparation for winter operations. Torbet noted that this seasonal work helps ensure infrastructure remains in good condition going into the colder months.
In addition to project updates, council was reminded about the mandatory records retention training session, which lasts approximately three hours and must be completed by all members.
The mayor also included information about the city’s participation in the annual Christmas parade on November 22, with additional details to be finalized closer to the event.
Council then approved payment of bills through November 3rd, and the meeting was adjourned at 5:29 p.m.