PHOTO BY ANNA WOZNIAK / THE VILLAGE REPORTER
WCPA CONTRACT DISCUSSION … Council held a discussion about the particulars of the contract presented for approval with regards to WCPA grant funding. The contract would show that if grant funds are awarded, the WCPA has permission to develop a certain village parcel. Being able to demonstrate to grantors where a potential project could happen is an integral step in obtaining grant funds.
By: Anna Wozniak
THE VILLAGE REPORTER
The West Unity Village Council met on June 13, 2024 at 7:30 p.m. After a prayer and the pledge of allegiance, councilors Dave Short, Nathan Massie, Shawn Blaisdell, Stephen Marvin, and Kevin Gray approved the bills as presented and the minutes from their May 9, 2024 meeting.
Resolution 6-2024-8 was then approved on its first reading after a suspension of the rules to account for the hire of Jason Altman for the wastewater treatment plant.
Ordinance 2024-8, which allowed for the annual appropriations for increases to the water and sewer funds, was also approved on its first reading after a suspension of the rules.
Chief Jones then shared that there is a change going on with the last parking space on the corner of Jackson Street to help with visibility.
The West Unity Police Department saw 20 traffic warnings throughout May, as well as five traffic citations, two accidents, 35 miscellaneous calls, 11 agency assists, and 38 investigations.
Fiscal Officer Sarah Higdon shared the latest details of the RITA tax collection service, stating that an increase in returns should be seen this year.
Rates for the village’s CD were presented, with all time spans offering the same interest rate. They voted to go for the shortest term available in case of a rise in interest rates.
She then detailed that a parcel of land across the street from the previously sold land by the railroad tracks is now tax exempt, resulting in a $10 fee instead of over $100 in taxes.
Mayor Leu presented an agreement with the Williams County Port Authority that is needed for the WCPA to receive a grant for potential village parcel development.
Councilor Massie shared his distaste for the program, sharing that “something’s just not right” with the land acquisition process available to the quasi-government entity.
A motion was passed to send the agreement over for approval, and Councilor Massie dissented when roll was called.
Mayor Leu then shared that the Oak Street Tank is being evaluated for elimination costs, as well as impact on the water available to firefighters.
Administration was made aware that the Oak Street tank supplies around two hours of water for fighting fires, with the main tank being able to supply four hours when completely full.
It was shared that a study should be conducted before a final decision is made with regards to the tank’s elimination.
Discussion was held on the costs of the tank’s upkeep, and Mayor Leu shared that the issue will be looked into by the Village Solicitor Mark Hagans.
Mayor Leu shared that the Gathering in Unity celebration was one of the most well attended yet, with supplies running out for the chicken BBQ and 41 vendors present.
There were 61 riders for this year’s poker run, and Higdon thanked the mayor for his participation in the parade.
Mayor Leu thanked the community for coming out and thanked those that helped clean downtown up after the parade and celebration. “Thank you everybody that helped out, it was fantastic. Hopefully we can go even bigger next year!”
Condolences were then given for three village residents that have passed on recently. Administrator Fritsch’s report shared news of the hire of Jason Altman and summer helper and shared that the final pay application for Bryan Excavating is currently under review.
The water meter replacement project was quoted at $14,257, with it being shared that the meters will be available soon after switching to the new system.
A grant of $9,023 was awarded for the project, with potential purchases of a line locator, ground mic, and ultrasonic sensor. He also shared that while the one turnpike pump was replaced, the other broke down, resulting in the need for more appropriations for its replacement.
An ultraviolet light module and a UPS battery will be replaced at the WWTP, which will cost nearly $15,780.
Word was received that the village did not get awarded any CDBG or Water and Wastewater Infrastructure grants, and the bid for the South Main Street Water Line Project will be put out soon.
Councilor Gray shared how the words forwarded his way on the state of the village have all been positive. The mayor added to that sentiment, sharing how residents have lately been speaking up about how well the village is being run.
Councilor Marvin shared how well the grass has grown around the new construction, with the finished jobs looking great.
Councilor Blaisdell thanked the streets department for their work, as well as the police department for their hard work keeping up with residents since school has gotten out.
Councilor Short shared that the dip on Main Street brought up in the last meeting has still not been addressed and urged administration to look for a remedy to the problem before thanking those involved with the Gathering in Unity celebration.
They then adjourned the meeting at 8:31 p.m., set to meet next on July 11th at 7:30 p.m.
