Mantua – At the last meeting on May 18th Council amended Ordinance 2021-27, which seeks to place a .5% increase in residents’ income tax collected. If approved by voters at the November 2nd election, the half-percent increase would be devoted to law enforcement and public safety. It was noted that the proposed increase is .5%, which would increase the current tax of 1.5% to 2%, should residents accept this initiative. That evening marked the first reading of this piece of legislation. Police Chief Joe Urso noted that the potential loss of the dispatch contract from the Village of Garrettsville contributes to the need for additional funding. Councilwoman Tammy Meyer noted that a shortfall is projected, regardless of the status of that contract, stressing the importance of this issue.
In addition, Council also discussed Ordinance 2021-24, which relates to distracted driving within village limits. The amended legislation prohibits interaction with a mobile device to write, send, or read text-based communication. In addition, the ordinance was amended to prohibit initiating or receiving telephone calls. This ordinance was on second reading. In addition, council also passed Ordinance 2021-20, an ordinance authorizing the Mayor and the Clerk-Treasurer to advertise for bids for residential curbside rubbish and recycling services within the village.
In other news, Village Administrator Maryann Fabian noted that Buchert Park repairs and improvements have been made, progress was made on West Prospect, and the “Village is looking good”. It was noted that quotes had been received for work on Canada Road, as well. Part of the park improvements included the updated sand volleyball court, a project that was planned and completed by Rotary Club of Mantua with 80 tons of sand donated by Brugmann Sand and Gravel.
Lastly, Chief Urso asked council to accept a donation from University Hospitals for three portable AED units, which will be placed in the Village’s three police cruisers. Chief Urso recognized Mantua-Shalersville Fire Chief Matt Roosa for his assistance in the procurement of the units.
The next village council meeting will take place immediately following council’s budget hearing on June 15th at 6:15 pm. Council members will meet in person in the Village Council Chambers, with the proceedings live-streamed to the public via YouTube. For more information and a link, visit mantuavillage.com.
