Garrettsville – The Garrettsville Village Council meeting convened on June 14th, 2023, at 7:00 pm for a productive session attended by council members, village officials, residents, and concerned individuals. Several important matters were discussed, including the adoption of the updated Village Plan, the recognition of notable achievements, and various ordinances and resolutions.
Prior to the meeting a public hearing was held to discuss Ordinance 2023-11, which focuses on adopting the updated Village Plan. No comments or objections were raised by council members or the audience during the hearing, and it was promptly closed.
Minutes from the previous meeting in May were reviewed and approved, with no additional comments or amendments. Financial reports and income tax receipts were also examined, revealing a slight decrease in income tax, although payments are being received. A motion was made to accept payment of the bills.
Resolution 2023-13 was read into the record, followed by the presentation of plaques to coach Iva Walker in recognition of the Quiz Masters quiz bowl team’s accomplishments at the national level. Additionally, Jack Rado was honored as the top individual scorer nationally in the public school division.
Resolution 2023-14 was introduced, and plaques were awarded to Keegan Sell and Hunter Andel for their outstanding achievement as Garfield High School’s first-ever state wrestling champions. Sell received his plaque in person, while Andel will receive his when he returns from a tournament in Oklahoma.
Ordinance 2023-11, which updates the Village Plan of Garrettsville, was approved on its third reading. The comprehensive land use plan, originally established in October 2001, has undergone significant revisions over the past three years. The Planning Commission worked diligently to incorporate anticipated future needs and modern community planning practices. The council collaborated with Northstar Planning & Design LLC to implement the updates.
Ordinance 2023-12 was passed and enacted, authorizing the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) to carry out Project 103275, involving the replacement of flat sheet signs, route shields, and mile markers on SR-88 within the Village of Garrettsville. This sign replacement project is scheduled for Fiscal Year 2024.
During the meeting, Ordinance 2023-15 received its first reading. This ordinance, if enacted, would establish section 1139.06 of the village’s codified ordinances, specifically relating to construction and site plan inspections. Council members Chris Knop and Tom Hardesty provided background information on the ordinance, emphasizing the importance of hiring an inspector to ensure construction plans are accurate and prevent future issues.
Ordinance 2023-16, which sets the budget for 2024, was also introduced and received its first reading. Under Ohio Revised Code, a public hearing for this ordinance has been scheduled for July 12th, 2023, at 7:00 pm. Residents were encouraged to visit Village Hall or email officials with any questions about the proposed budget.
Mayor Rick Patrick brought forward a request from the Summerfest Committee for a donation of $1,765 to cover the cost of porta-potties during the festival. Council members unanimously approved the donation, maintaining their tradition of supporting the event.
Council member Tom Hardesty provided details on the proposed pickleball courts project. The plan includes two subprojects, with one contractor responsible for the paving aspect, and Site Technology Inc. being hired separately for the development of three courts. The estimated cost for the paving phase at the Park Avenue site is $29,850, while the topping, nets, and posts are expected to cost up to $27,000. Sound mitigation, such as adding slats to the fence, may be considered. The skate park equipment will be relocated to the South Street park.
Marie Elium addressed the issue of crosswalk markings on Headwaters Trail where it intersects with South Street. The responsibility for improving the crosswalk and signage lies with the village, according to the Portage County park district. Suggestions were made to enhance the safety of the crossing area, including placing markings further out from the crossing and installing solar-powered lights on the crosswalk signage. The village expressed a willingness to explore the addition of solar lights and updating the signage.
Helen Louise Bouts shared her concerns about speeding on South Street and the need for additional 25 MPH signage along State Route 88. She is worried about the risk of accidents due to speeders and impatient drivers. Council member Chris Knop proposed adding signs to existing posts and implementing speed change signs in strategic locations. The installation of a digital speed sign on a trailer was also discussed. The Nalls, residents of Center Street, echoed similar concerns about speeding near the Maple Ave intersection.
Police Chief Tim Christopher sought council approval to hire a new part-time officer, Cara Scarl, which was granted.
During the roundtable wrap-up, Council member Chris Knop reported a vacancy in the Board of Zoning Appeals, with Jeff Sheehan being appointed to fill the position. Mayor Rick Patrick informed council members that the hanging baskets, provided by the Silver Creek Garden Club, were now on display. He also mentioned the upcoming Car Cruise at Sky Plaza and the upcoming Summerfest.
Council member Richard Beatty shared that residents had complained about open burning on Garfield Drive, prompting Mayor Patrick to encourage reporting such incidents to the fire department.
The meeting was adjourned following the roundtable session.
