Hiram – At their last meeting, Council unanimously passed Resolution 2020-21, by which they declared racism to be a public health crisis. As stated in the resolution, Council agreed that the principals of diversity, equality, and inclusion are central to a healthy community. Several guests joined the online meeting to comment in support of this measure, including Hiram College alumna Jacqueline Gillon, who noted data from cities across the country showing that living with racism adversely affects physical, mental, and financial health of Black, Indigenous, and People of Color.
Reverend Chris McCreight from the Hiram Christian Church concurred, adding that the legislation is important for the community. Hiram resident Reverend Chad Delaney from Mantua Center Christian Church joined in to add support for the legislation, as well. Councilman Chris Szell requested that council consider this legislation in order for Hiram to “highlight what we stand for as a privileged community, especially given the diverse student-base who attend Hiram College.” Once council approved the measure, they directed Mayor Bertrand to share the document with the 133rd General Assembly.
In his Fire Report, Chief Bill Byers noted that the department had received a Personal Protective Gear (PPE) grant from the Bureau of Workers’ Compensation, which enabled the purchase of 30 pairs of fire gloves and hoods. Fiscal Officer Susan Skrovan noted a check in the amount of $5,285 had been received; the balance of the purchase cost ($1,056) will be matched with department funds.
In his report, Village Administrator James McGee noted that the sidewalk project along State Route 305 and the north end of Hinsdale was in process. He explained that a recent late-night fire on village property prompted him to seek cost estimates to have village brush collection ground on-site two times per year, removing the potential fire hazard. McGee informed council that the cost would be around $6,000 per day. In other news, McGee noted that the Service Department investigated the cost of implementing a reverse-911 system to quickly and efficiently notify residents of water main breaks, fire or police alerts. He noted the cost to be $3,500 per year with a $500 set-up fee. Lastly, McGee noted that repairs had begun at Fairview Cemetery using funds from the Hiram Community Trust grant.
In the mayor’s report, Lou Bertrand noted that the Economic Development Committee met again to discuss new business and additional opportunities within the village. In other news, council passed Ordinance 2020-17, which requires facial coverings to be worn in both indoor and outdoor areas within the Village to prevent the spread of Covid-19. This legislation took effect on August 11th and will remain in place until such time as council terminates the declaration of a State of Emergency in the Village.
The next regularly scheduled council meeting will take place on Tuesday, September 8th at 7 pm. Visit hiramvillage.org for details on how to view it online.
