COUNCIL from page A1
anticipated start date for the city’s Seneca-wyandot Drive sanitary sewer relocation project.
In other business, council addressed several legislative items.
Among the items discussed were the repeal of an existing ordinance and the establishment of a new zoning classification for an annexed property.
Councilman Charles Roub initiated the discussion in his committee report from the Public Works and General Operations Committee that he leads.
He highlighted the need to address the Building and Grounds Commission, initially established to oversee infrastructure expansion such as the Shelby Justice Center complex. However, with no imminent plans for further infrastructure development, the officials deemed the commission unnecessary.
Roub stated, “Basically the commission is no longer needed, and there’s some legislation here tonight to formally disband that if you will.”
This sentiment was echoed during the council session with the introduction of Ordinance No. 2-2024, seeking to repeal Chapter 290 of the city’s codified ordinances, involving the Buildings and Grounds Commission. Following a brief discussion, the ordinance passed its first reading.
The council then shifted its focus to Ordinance No. 3-2024, concerning the establishment
of a zoning classification for the Humphrey annexation property. A first reading was held.
Gies provided details on the annexation and the recommendation by the planning commission for an R-1 classification.
Addressing concerns raised during the session, Cutlip inquired about the availability of public utilities in the annexed area.
Gies reported that the property was connected to the waterline and plans were underway to connect it to the sewer line.
Earlier, Councilman Roub also provided background information on various other discussions held during committee meetings. These include charter amendments involving timing for elected city officials to assume duties at various offices, property concerns, and updates on infrastructure projects within the city, including the sidewalk program.
In his report, Mayor Schag detailed his recent activities, including taking part in discussions on new community projects and improvement. The mayor’s commitments included attending a public meeting in Crestline about a potential new train station, which could enhance regional transportation links.
On Feb. 22, Mayor Schag, along with Councilman Cutlip, Councilman at-large Steve Mclaughlin, and municipal utilities director/deputy public service director John Ensman, explored the possibility of establishing a train station in Crestline.
This initiative is seen as a
potential boost to the local and regional economy by improving connectivity and accessibility.
Further, the mayor highlighted his Feb. 27 meeting with an Ohio regional development official regarding a community housing improvement program grant application, as part of Shelby’s continuing efforts.
In addition, on Feb. 28, Mayor Schag joined other local officials in Richland County for a Regional Planning Commission meeting in Mansfield, underlining the importance of collaborative regional development strategies. He also mentioned an enjoyable and fruitful gathering on Feb. 29 in Lucas with fellow Richland County mayors, involving the area’s municipal leadership network.
A significant community highlight was the ribbon-cutting event March 1 at Westmeister Farms, which Mayor Schag attended off Plymouth-springmill Road with public officials and others.
“This unique family farm attraction has yielded positive outcomes for the city of Shelby by way of shared tourist activity from out of state,” he noted, emphasizing the economic and recreational benefits to Shelby businesses of such local attractions.
In law enforcement developments, Schag said that Shelby Police Chief Lance Combs informed others of the selection of two new Shelby City school resource officers. Shelby Officer Hannah Hall will serve as the primary school resource officer and Officer Cody
Baker as the backup, Schag said.
Mayor Schag also proudly announced Shelby’s recognition as a Tree City USA once again, a testament to the city’s ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship and community green spaces.
The discussion also touched upon the future use of the old Main Street fire station, with Mayor Schag noting its current use for storage, and hinting at future discussions for its possible utilization.
City Finance Director Brian Crum contributed to the discussion with an update on financial matters, including the progression of the annual audit and a reminder of the upcoming tax season.
“I’m grateful for everyone, both on council and the various departments...to help get that $40 million on the page there,” Crum stated in reference to the ongoing budget appropriations process.
He added that the annual state audit is well underway “and so we’re very busy getting information for that.”
“And additionally, as I will keep reminding, tax season is now upon us,” Crum added. “If all the residents of the city could file a tax return by April 15th, I would be grateful.”
The Shelby City Council also had a first reading on Ordinance No. 4-2024 involving impermissible expenditures of the codified ordinances of the city of Shelby. Councilman Nathan Martin sponsors the legislation.