Hiram – At the last meeting, Village Council discussed the village’s finances. In an effort to generate more funds, Council passed Ordinance 2022-08, which revises Section 182.081 of the tax code dealing with the credit for tax paid to other municipalities. Per the Ordinance, the credit for tax paid to other municipalities shall not exceed 100% of the amount obtained by multiplying the income, qualifying wages, commissions, net profits or other compensation subject to tax in other municipalities by the lower of the tax rate in such other municipality OR the rate of 1.25%. While Council’s vote was evenly split, Mayor Lou Bertrand broke the tie by casting a vote to pass this legislation.
In his Police Report, Chief Brian Gregory echoed similar budget strain adding, “We’re in a real quandary in the village.” He went on to explain the trouble in attracting and keeping officers, given the low pay rate in Hiram as compared to surrounding communities. He shared that the department formerly had over 30 officers, while currently they retain seven. Coupled with increased fuel costs and other expenses, the Chief is looking at doing away with the third shift as a cost-cutting measure. In related news, Gregory noted that roughly 70% of police calls in the Village come from the college, prompting discussion among council members about moving to a fee-based system for police and fire services provided to Hiram College.
In his Village Administrator report, James McGee shared that the Service Department has installed a new drainage pipe and catch basin in the parking lot at Village Hall and the Street Department garage. Paving is weather-dependent and to begin in late September and early October. McGee noted that the OWDA Loan Board would meet in late September to approve the loan for the village’s water tower project. In similar news, McGee asked council for a motion to adjust the water and sewer account for Hiram College. He explained that due to a glitch in the inaugural reads for the new meter system in May 2022, 30 Village households and several college accounts were billed for six months of usage in error. While the 30 residential accounts have been already been corrected, Fiscal Officer Susan Skrovan requested a motion from council to refund $48,611.38 to the college. The motion, which was recommended by the Auditor, was unanimously approved by council.
Lastly, it was determined that trick-or-treating will take place in Hiram Village & Township on Monday, October 31st from 5 – 7 pm. As in previous years, the annual Halloween party and costume contest will take place at the Fire Station at 7 pm. Council approved a motion to provide the Hiram Firefighters Association with $450 to help finance the community party.
The next regular meeting of village council will take place on Tuesday, October 11th at 7 pm; residents are encouraged to attend.
