Hiram – According to Police Chief Brian Gregory, formal charges were filed against the owners of 11846 Plum Ridge, Mary Lou Texler and Donald Miles. Miles was present at the June Council meeting, where he was granted a 60-day extension to address several issues at the abandoned property. No noticeable changes were made, leaving the Village no other recourse to remedy the situation.
According to Village Solicitor Thomas Reitz, the owners will receive summons notifying them of the date they must appear in court to address the matter. According to Reitz, who has been provided with a year and a half of documentation of ‘no progress’ on the derelict property, he’s ready to continue to apply pressure until the situation is remedied. Chief Gregory reminded Council to be patient as, “It’s not going to happen overnight.”
Councilman Paul Spencer explained that the property owners on Plum Ridge weren’t being singled out. He noted that letters had been sent out to all Village properties with violations. He added that Miles and Texler were afforded extra time and consideration, remarking, “we’ve definitely extended an olive branch.” Mayor Lou Bertrand added, “We’re trying to do the best we can to keep the property safe.”
While the Village seeks a solution to resolve an EPA permit issue regarding composting, the Village is unable to collect yard waste, twigs or branches. In the interim, Kimble Sanitation offers residential service to collect bundled or bagged yard waste. Residents should note, however, the additional fee of $5 per bag or bundle of brush/twigs and $3 per bundle of general yard waste. To arrange pick up, residents must contact Kimble at 1-800-201-0005.
Lastly, Chief Gregory noted that the Department’s annual Cops Fishing with Kids event will take place on Saturday, August 20th from 9 am until 1 pm at Camp Asbury in Hiram. Kids and their caregivers are invited to join Hiram officers for a fun day of fishing. Gear and supplies will be available, no licenses are necessary. Those with their own rods and reels are encouraged to bring them; lunch will be provided. For more information, visit the Department’s Facebook page.
The next regularly scheduled Council meeting will take place on Tuesday, August 16th at 7 pm at the Rosser Municipal Building (11617 Garfield Road).
