Hiram – Over the Memorial Day weekend, the Hiram Police Department held its annual Kick off to summer, “Click it or Ticket” event. Approximately 300 vehicles were briefly stopped at the intersection of Garfield and Wakefield Roads from 11 am to 1 pm. During these stops, motorists wearing seat belts were rewarded, receiving vouchers for free ice cream from Garrettsville McDonalds. In addition, officers provided over 250 informational bags containing coloring books, stickers and magnets for children who utilize this easy standard safety feature while in a vehicle.
According to Chief Brian Gregory, the 2018 national Click It or Ticket seat belt enforcement mobilization kicks off May 22 to help save lives by cracking down on those who don’t buckle up. “The Hiram Police Department is joining with other state and local law enforcement officers and highway safety advocates across the country to help save more lives by strongly enforcing seat belt laws around the clock,” Chief Gregory shared. “While this year’s Click It or Ticket enforcement mobilization runs from May 21 through June 3, motorists should know that officers are out enforcing seat belt laws year-round,” he added.
In his Fire Report, Assistant Chief Brandon Baynes reported that the department received a $2,500 grant from Monsanto’s Grow Communities program. The grant was awarded on behalf of Hiram farmer and firefighter Jason Groselle, who applied in order to direct the $2,500 to Hiram Firefighters Association. This year’s grant was combined with a donation by Wellington Implement to purchase an adaptable grain entrapment rescue system used to free victims trapped in grain silos. In addition, funds were also used to purchase 14 new hoods, which will provide firefighters with improved barrier protection against particulates.
In addition, Baynes noted that the department hired two new firefighters: Valerie Adams and Benjamin Koch. Several key team members were promoted, including Alex Maglionico, Ryan Wade, and Steve Laskey, who are now lieutenants, and Jason Groselle, who was promoted to assistant chief. The formal swearing in by Mayor Lou Bertrand took place prior to the monthly council meeting. Congratulations!
Village Administrator James McGee reported that the ODOT paving project on State Routes 700 and 305 is in progress, with another coat added to the road surface within the next few weeks, weather permitting. He noted that the village is seeking bids for road work on Constance Avenue and throughout the village. Work is expected to begin in August, taking advantage of grant funding which will be awarded in July. He noted that he and assistant VA Steve Schuller are reviewing bids for repairs and replacement of the village’s 30-year-old water tank. Council approved a motion allowing the two to proceed with potential grant opportunities; discussions will continue as more information becomes available.
The next regularly scheduled meeting will be held on June 12th, The meeting will begin immediately following a budget discussion that begins promptly at 6:30 pm.
