DISCUSSING NEW PROPERTY … Sean Rupp (pictured) talked about the Williams County Port Authority’s acquired house in Montpelier. The property on 333 Monroe Street, formerly located on 503 Ohio Street, is awaiting word on what’s needed for an inspection to take place. (PHOTO BY DANIEL COOLEY, STAFF)
By: Daniel Cooley
The Williams County Port Authority held a meeting on February 22. Port Authority board members in attendance were Dawn Fitzcharles, David Newcomer, Bill Martin, Sean Rupp, Stacy Lillard, and Richard Reed.
In the first order of business, members approved the meeting minutes from the previous meeting, held on February 1.
Next, the members approved the financial activity, through February 21.
The members then approved the 2022 financial statements and the filing of them for audit.
The members then discussed the Port Authority’s home on 333 Monroe Street, formerly the 503 Ohio Street home, in Montpelier.
Sean Rupp talked with a building inspector who wants the home to meet the international building codes, which is what they have to do in Ft. Wayne, Indiana.
The Port Authority will wait to see just what they have to do for the home in the state of Ohio, to see what building codes have to be met.
Also, Newcomer said that the Land Bank has two properties that may be available in Montpelier, so he is waiting to hear on those.
Next, the members discussed property transfers for 903 South Main Street in Bryan and a home in the 300 block on Oak Street, in Edgerton.
This home in Edgerton does not yet have an exact house number and the Port Authority does not own this property, just yet. The Port Authority does own the 903 South Main Street property.
Next, Newcomer met with the Village of West Unity, regarding 23 lots, with each projected to go for $50,000.
However, Newcomer said that that price is not a go, as he thinks the lots should go for $15,000 to $20,000 per lot. Newcomer met with West Unity Don Leu, on the matter.
In the meantime, there could be more lots available on Jackson Street, located east of the Industrial Park.
Newcomer would like to hire an engineer, in order to do a proposed layout of family units for that area.
Newcomer said that he wanted a motion regarding the villages of West Unity and Montpelier, to apply for grants. The members approved the motion.
Next, Newcomer said that 13 lots could be available in Bryan, located across the field from the proposed senior housing project.
Newcomer asked for a motion to get bids for this property and the members approved the motion.
In addition, Newcomer talked about a meeting with the USDA. He stated that the USDA has a program that offers income that includes water and sewer to the community, for loans and grants. That will be discussed more, in the future.
The Port Authority then moved into executive session.
Dan can be reached at publisher@thevillagereporter.com
