By: Brenna White
THE VILLAGE REPORTER
publisher@thevillagereporter.com
The Williams County Commissioners met for their regular session Thursday, April 30, 2026, to hold the second public hearing for the Maumee Valley Planning Organization (MVPO) Community Development Block Grant Program (CDBG) applications.
Two projects were presented for consideration. The first involves the replacement of the South Liberty Street pump station in West Unity.
The existing facility, now more than 50 years old, is in poor condition and does not meet current design standards. The project, estimated at $528,500, includes replacing outdated equipment.
The Village of West Unity is seeking $264,100 in CDBG funding. The village currently has $175,000 from the Ohio Public Works Commission (OPWC) and plans to match the rest with village funds.
The second project focuses on building improvements at 119 S. Beech St. in Bryan, where Inspiring Hope Counseling is located. Proposed upgrades include repairs to an existing freight elevator, installation of a new staircase connecting the first through third floors and the addition of a fire suppression system.
The total cost is estimated at $226,700, with a request of up to $250,000 through the CDBG FLEX Downtown Grant Program. The City of Bryan must pass a resolution and complete a certified inspection to designate the building as “slum and blight.”
In other business, the commissioners approved an amended Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for shared funding for child placement. The agreement is between Williams County Job and Family Services (JFS) and the Board of Developmental Disabilities.
The amended MOU updates costs to cover child placement when no foster homes are available within the county. The per diem rate is not to exceed $561 per day, per child. JFS covers $361 of that amount, with $200 covered by the Board of DD.
Sealed bids will be accepted for Project 03-2026, the county’s upcoming asphalt paving program. Bids will be accepted until 9:30 a.m. May 21, 2026.
Two requests for the use of county property were also approved. The Bryan Area Ministerial Association received permission to host a National Day of Prayer gathering May 7, 2026, at the courthouse gazebo.
The ECHO Coalition, in partnership with the Williams County Health Department, was granted use of the courthouse square for Overdose Awareness Day on Aug. 31, 2026.
The event will include the placement of memorial flags around the square beginning Aug. 27, with the main event scheduled Aug. 31 from 4:30 to 7 p.m.
Commissioners also reviewed and discussed a small parcel of land in West Unity. The parcel was said to have 30 feet of frontage. The board opted to give the property to the nearest homeowner, who was already maintaining it.
The commissioners entered executive session at 10:28 a.m. for matters required to be kept confidential with Melissa Bodey of CEBCO. Afterward, they attended an insurance coverage review with Andres, O’Neil & Lowe.
