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At the September 11th (2007) regular session, Adena's solicitor, Rebecca Bench provided council with her legal opinions of two different decrees.
Council made a concurrent decision to adopt a Sex Offender Ordinance nearing the end of a 2 and a half-hour session. Based upon Ohio Revised Code 2950.034 prohibiting sex offenders from residing within 1000 feet from a school, pre-school, or day care center, the new law will be proposed to expand its provisions. When adopted, the Ordinance will prohibit a sex offender from living within two thousand five hundred feet of a school, day care; Village owned or operated Public Park, playground, or library within the village of Adena.
In a letter dated August 28, 2007, Bench exemplified two cases in Hamilton County and Troy, Ohio where the sex offenders are challenging local ordinances. She also included an alternative with the possibility that council ask the Judge for injunctive relief, which is a court order to force the offender to move.
There are three sex offenders that live in Adena and two of them reside on McLaughlin Street. According to authorities, one was recently jailed for attempted breaking and entering into a McLaughlin Street home.
Rebecca explained the procedure to council saying, "You can't tell them (offenders) that they can't live in Adena, but you can make a law creating the feet of distance of a school, day care, play areas, etc." Mayor Ray Jeskey who presided over the panel was supportive of council's decision saying; "We must do what we can to keep our children safe."
Bench provided council with another written legal address as to the procedure for selling real estate owned by the village. The procedure quoted ORC code sections 721.01 and 721.03.
Ohio Revised Code 721.01 states that municipal corporations have the power to sell real estate when the real estate is not needed for any municipal use.
The second ORC, 721.03 provides that any contract for sale of real estate after being authorized by Ordinance, and approved by a 2/3 majority vote, must be advertised for bids once a week for five consecutive weeks in the newspaper.
Bench explained both statutes at the meeting. Mayor Jeskey broached the topic of the former Bedway Building being considered for sale. After some babble about the buildings, Jeskey said, "I intend to keep the village offices where they are now located." Consequently council's decision of August's meeting was nullified to sell the former Bedway building that contains the Mayor's office.
A motion was adopted to accept the Tax Budget of Levied Rates to the Jefferson County Auditor. A third reading passed Ordinance 2007-4 to close a 12-foot alley on Main Street and a first reading was heard of Ordinance 2007-5 to vacate another McLaughlin Street 16-foot alley.
Council Moves to Sell Mayor's Office
[August 2007} Without notice Adena Village council motioned to adjourn to executive session at August's
regular meeting. After the re-convening, R. J. Konkoleski made a motion to request sealed bids for the Mayor's office building and adjacent garage in current condition to be received by the next month's meeting. The vote was a surprise of sorts because there was no published prior committee meeting regarding the matter. With a vote of 4 to 1 and no discussion, the decision was made in the absence of Mayor Ray Jeskey and legal counsel. Jeskey suffered slight injuries from an automobile accident the morning of the meeting and was at the hospital unable to attend the session. Solicitor, Rebecca Bench was also unable to be there due to daylong depositions.
The Municipal Building is that of the former Bedway Coal Office and it contains the Clerk's offices, Mayor's office and Board of Public Affairs. Four active offices are now located on 143 W. Main Street and minor repairs to the building are still taking place. Last January, a few council members questioned the authority of Jeskey relocating his office and at that meeting Solicitor Mike Shaheen directly answered inquiries pertaining to the authoritarian power of the Mayor. Shaheen said, "The Mayor has the power to select the location of the village administrative offices as and where he chooses."
Jeskey's cemented his decision due to the fact that the building was vacant and renovations were taking place at the Adena Community Building, so the offices were relocated last December. Several donations were contributed to the demolition, cleaning, and remodeling of the building and the Mayor's office is now anew. In the start of 2007, the clerks went to work spending their money and time to clean offices for workspace to avoid budget expenditures. Four of the eight rooms have been renovated with new flooring, plumbing, carpet, paint and fabric. Several residents have come forth giving wood, carpet and free labor with simple successful efforts to improve the building. It is in now in dire need of a roof and five townspeople have offered free labor to complete the job.
Prior to its renovation the Adena Community Center embodied all four offices including the Police Department, Adena Lions Club meeting Room, AARP, and the Cub Scout den upstairs. Now nearing its completion, there will be only one room available that is handicap accessible on the main floor. No definitive answers or suggestions were determined as to an alternative placement of the Mayor's office, Clerk's office and BPA.
After learning of councils' decision, Jeskey responded, " Why would they (council) decide to do such a thing?" After learning of council's impulsive vote, Mayor Jeskey sought legal counsel. The solicitor revealed that there is legitimate procedure regarding a land and/or property sale and the Adena Village will be provided with a legal opinion.
In normal procedure, the Building Committee should have appropriately met then proposed their findings to the Mayor and council at a special meeting.
According to the open public meetings act of the Ohio Sunshine Laws, council could then adjourn to executive session to consider the sale of
property by competitive bid if disclosure of the information would result in a competitive advantage to the other side.
It also states that if a public body wants to adjourn to executive session during a special meeting, the topic of the executive session should
directly relate to some matter expressly included in the notice. Therefore, proper legislation of this matter was not adhered to at Adena's Village
council meeting August 14th.
Adena Mayor Commends Council
[July 2007] It isn't very often that hear kind words at a council meeting but Adena's officials left July's session with praise from their president.
Mayor Ray Jeskey chaired council with a discussion relative to a halted Issue 2 grant to obtain appropriation. If funding was fortuitous, Jeskey said he would continue to improve Adena Streets. He uttered, "We got shot down this year but we'll get it, just keep on going for it."
During his dominion, Jeskey procured a grant to repave several of the Adena side streets mostly located on the west-end of town. Streets that were poorly paved or graveled such as McLaughlin, Gallagher, Miric's Road, Hagan, Robyville, Park Avenue, etc. are now paved. He commented that a resident told him that the streets where he resides had not been paved for over thirty years. He carefully spoke to council saying; "All in all I think the streets in town are as good as anyone in the valley, I've seen a lot worse."
He congratulated council saying; "You've done a great job purchasing property in town and its really going to be nice for the community in years to come." " I want to give you all a pat on the back, it's been a pleasure working with you because you've got an awful lot done in the time you've been in office." Jeskey continued, "Believe me, I wouldn't be sitting here today with you if I didn't think I could make a difference, and I know you feel the same." Ray reflected, "When I took office in 1999, I saw the town go downhill." "Everything in town was just let go, but it's going back up again." He said, "This could be a real beautiful village again, it's taking shape real nice." He closed saying, "To be successful, you surround yourself with good people and I believe I've done that."
No visitors were on the Adena agenda although public members voiced their political ideas.
Transactions that took place were that a lighted advertisement sign was purchased and approved, Resolution 2007I was adopted for a 2.0 mil Current Expense Levy, and Mayor Jeskey had a first reading to vacate a 12-ft. alley of property owned by Tom Crothers.
Unanimous decisions were adopted to buy eight new sign posts for the street markers and there was moot talk forgoing a decision to reverse a clerical entry of an $1100.00 office air unit purchase from the general fund into the water fund that remains in the red.
Post was received from the Ohio Dept. of Public Safety informing the town that the Vehicle license tax will be collected for $10.00 instead of $15.00.
No police report was provided and it was announced that a Park and Recreation meeting would be held July 31st at 7pm on the village green. Council plans to re-convene on August 14th at 6:30pm.
Leagues Litigate for Adena Park Play
[March, 2007] Representatives of Adena who are seated on the Park and Recreation Committee, Jeff Masloski, Jim Horton and R. J. Konkoleski met with the Adena Baseball League and Adena Girls Softball Leagues. Topics of discussion were the Adena parks.
According to Mark Touville, who is president of the boy's baseball league, seventy-one children enrolled to play baseball in Adena. The children will form T-Ball, Pinto, Mustang, and Bronco teams according to age and they will need a place to practice. John Lengyel who presides for the girls' softball had questions about field conditions, play, and practice areas for the girls. He noted that there are three girls leagues, ages 10 and under, ages 12 and under, and ages 14-18. Some of the subjects of concern for the girls softball were, the condition of both playing fields, no toilets near the field, the need of repair for fencing surrounding the field, weed and grass maintenance, and that both fields need proper excavation before the softball season begins.
Jim Horton, who officiated the meeting announced that new bleachers were purchased for the girls' softball fields and will be assembled soon. He mentioned that several improvements have been projected for Parks and Recreation for Adena and they are discussed regularly at monthly public council meetings. R. J. Konkoleski hinted at a need for signs to be used for directional purposes pointing out Adena area parks and fields.
The former AHS football field was also discussed and it was voted that it be used for game practice. It was agreed that young T-Ball players could practice at the East End of the field. The field is in desperate need of repairs such as industrial cleaning, painting and restoring the restroom areas, and grand stands. Also, a new hot water tank and refrigerator is needed for the concession stand.
The Adena village cabinet assured the athletic assembly that they are willing to work with them to meet the requirements of park and field matters. There was conversation with regard to the wants and needs of the Adena Parks. All parties agreed to hold a spring workday to prepare the parks for Adena area activities.
Adena BPA reckons rate hike[Feb. 2007]
The residents of Adena may soon be paying a bit more for their city sewage and water overage. At a February meeting, the Board of Public Affairs met
to discuss primarily this matter. The BPA funds show a debt of over $30,000.
It was unanimously agreed to consider a percentage increase in sewer rates and water overage rates. Notices will be sent prior to the rate hike.
The reason for the increase came about due to the surmounting water debt of delinquent water bills and water main breaks that cost thousands of gallons of water to be lost." The delinquencies will be assessed to your taxes," said Luann Hopkins, who serves as BPA President. In addition, Hopkins announced that all residents, who experience low water pressure or discoloration, do NOT delay, contact the BPA @ 546-3182.
The USDA recently sent a letter to Adena in query of the debt of sewer-related items referencing the 2005 Audit Report of the BPA. The letter requested a response regarding the schedule of findings for the prior years. Mayor Jeskey responded to the letter and bulleted this strategy of goals:
· The BPA will reduce expenditures and address the collections immediately,
· aggressive action will be taken due to water and sewer payments,
· that the clerk Treasurer will deny any payment requests that exceed budget appropriations for the water and sewer funds,
· the village will adopt a budget and strive to calculate the finances more accurately within the timeline,
· the village will obtain the necessary documentation before transferring funds from the sewer to the water funds and
· the clerk treasurer will closely monitor the revenue comparing it to certified resources.
Adena faces financial Woes : [January 2007]-
Since the passing of legislation to raise minimum wage to $6.85 per hour, the village of Adena is now financially forced to adjust the majority of wages for their village employees.
Gary Dulkowski who serves as Adena's Clerk Treasurer, announced at January's meeting, that the increase would be received by five of the village employees. He suggested that the advisory board hold a finance meeting to determine whether or not the village should raise salaries for two non-minimum wageworkers as well. Because some of the treasury accounts are foreseeing debt the village may see a strain on its pitiful pocketbook. Dulkowski sorted through the pile of mail and read a notice from Comcast noting a cable rate increase and other bills to be paid. He mentioned other new expenses that village has accumulated that were not prevalent in the past. Council voted unanimously to pay the bills.
At a prior meeting council passed legislation to affix a $5.00 increase for license plate fees. The license plate fee increased to $10.00 for 2007. It was concluded that the Ohio BMV misunderstood the village's request of a $5.00 increase and doubled the cost to total $10.00. In an effort to try to resolve the matter, the village solicitor Mike Shaheen mentioned two alternatives. One would be to repeal it, taking effect January 1, 2008. The other option is to leave the increase as is with no future increases to be had. Adena is regarded as being in the low fee bracket compared to most jurisdictions. No action was taken. Gary Dulkowski said that money collected from the license plate fees would be placed in a separate fund.
Temporary budget appropriations were approved as Resolution 2007-A
and it was resolved as 2007-B to amend final budget appropriations for 2006 that is a common custom for budget allotment matters. Resolution 2007D was additionally adopted to move money from the Water Fund to the Sewer Fund.
A third reading was heard in the matter of Ordinance 2006-4 to close an alley on Sycamore Street. Another approved resolution was 2007-C, that proceeds from the Fire Levy to be deposited to the Adena Fire Company.
Solicitor Mike Shaheen answered inquiries pertaining to the authoritarian power of the Mayor. Shaheen clarified that the Mayor has the power to move the village administrative offices as and where he chooses. The office has recently relocated from the Adena Community Center to the former Bedway Coal office at 143 West Main Street. Said Shaheen; "The Mayor has the power to choose the location of the village administrative offices."
Resident Lois Konkoleski questioned Shaheen to quote the code of the Ohio Sunshine Law. He answered that the Mayor has the right to meet and discuss matters relative to the project of the relocation of his office and would not violate the law. He exemplified that violation of a sunshine law would be when members of a public body would meet privately and discuss legislation. Shaheen quoted law concerning the Open Meetings Act of the Ohio Sunshine Law.
On the agenda, Mr. Greg Blazy from the Jefferson County Regional Planning Commission was present asking council to adopt a resolution for an all hazard mitigation plan. Jim Horton commended his support in working with the commission. As a result, the panel unanimously adopted Resolution 2007E regarding the aforementioned. Horton was re-elected by council to serve as President Pro-Tempore for his fourth consecutive year.
The building committee revealed that the renovation projects of the community center would carry on. The Adena Community Center will soon be considered handicap accessible. Two rooms of the upper level and all rooms on the main floor are to be restructured. The grant for this project is set to expire March 30t, 2007.
A park committee meeting is scheduled for January 16th at 7:00 p.m. at the Community Center and council will re-convene their regular session there on February 13th at 6:30 p.m.
Adena Council Ratifies Renovation for Old School: [Dec. 2006]
The committee also reported that there is approximately $3,000 left from last year in the Park and Recreation fund and the money will be spent. They announced that many projects are underway to care for Adena recreation and critiqued some solid plans. They are:
It was announced that grants are being sought strategically for park funding and other village endeavors for the intent to enhance Adena.
At the meeting of December 12th, village
council approved bids for a total of $65,000 to be spent on
repairs and renovation for the old school building. Bids were unanimously accepted by B. Kelly Construction and D & E Electric not to expend over $65,000.
Funding via USDA and grant search of council's building committee will appropriate a portion of the cost.
Decisions were voted affirmative in closing an alley on Sycamore Street and finances were approved. Radios were purchased for use of the street and sewer departments
for safety issues and paging purposes. Money matters were also discussed. Council will reconvene their next public meeting January 9th.
Adena Police Chief Appointed Much to his surprise, Brian Driscoll, who is serving as Adena's patrol officer and a deputy for Belmont County Sheriff's office was appointed to serve as Chief of Police for the Village of Adena. The decision was made after discussion in executive session at council's regular meeting.
At the meeting, Driscoll distributed and read the monthly police report to council. It consisted of 46 traffic stops, three counts of vandalism, three general complaints, one medical assist, two domestic violence calls and one animal complaint totaling 56 police responses. According to council, Driscoll will continue his duties for Adena under a part-time patrol schedule. However, Adena is under 24-hour patrol from Jefferson and Harrison counties when the village doesn't have an officer on duty.
Brian began working as a patrol officer for Adena last summer immediately after the resignation of the former chief of police David Darago. Brian graduated from ICM in Pittsburgh, PA, with a degree in Criminal Justice and at that time was also attending police academy. He served as a cadet officer in Mt. Pleasant, Ohio, and has been a deputy for Belmont County for at least six months.
When asked what his goal is for the department he responded, "I plan to institute enhancement to the community of Adena." Brian will work with Captain Ben Swoyer also of the Adena Police Department. Brian is a resident of Harrisville,
Ohio, is married to his wife Beth, and fathers four children, Justin, Cassie, Lance, and Seth
Adena Talks Trash;[Nov., 2006]
After an executive session review and discussion, the crowd was called back to the regular meeting, November 14th. A vote was made then by Adena council to re-contract J & J Refuse, Inc. as the villages rubbish vendor. Gathering the gauntlet of garbage bids, Mayor Ray Jeskey opened sealed bids and read them aloud to the public. With the same specifications of two years prior, four waste removal companies attended the assembly awaiting the outcome in the seemingly "deal or no deal" setting. Companies who proposed packages that were rudimentary of refuse were, Economy Sanitation, Allied Waste Service, J & J Refuse, Inc., and Waste Management Inc. All four companies were given thanks for their proposals before they disbursed from the meeting.
In other approaches of clean up, an ordinance had its first reading to vacate an Alley on Sycamore Street. A separate motion carried to purchase oak blocks needed to raise the Railroad Bridge on W. Main Street. The street supervisor said that the streets should be decked with Holiday decorations by December 10th.
In closing, Mayor Jeskey mentioned an Issue 2 match grant of for street, drainage, and storm sewer repair that's possibly in the process.
A pithy police report projected that 13 traffic warnings were issued to drivers in efforts to slow speed on the main streets.
Adena Pursues Police Chief [Oct., 2006]
The topic of hiring a new police chief for the Village of Adena was a matter of consideration at council's regular session held October 10th.
The village is required to have a chief of police, appointed by the Mayor with Council approval. Both Mayor Ray Jeskey and Council revealed plans
to conduct interviews next month in hopes of hiring police chief.
Adena Council Vacancy Validated, Creek Project Prevails
[Sept. 2006]
Jeff Masloski will now serve as councilman for the Adena Village. The decision was made September 26th, in a special session held to discuss matters of the council vacancy, police department, community building and creek project.
For the council position, four Letters of Intent were received by the village and read aloud at the meeting by Clerk Treasurer, Gary Dulkowski. Dulkowski was just recently appointed Clerk-Treasurer due to the resignation of Bobbie Gaffney last month.
The letters were received from residents, Paul J. Carpenter, Gary Martin, Billie Stanwick and Jeff Masloski. Council nominated both Billie Stanwick and Jeff Masloski tying the votes for Mayor Ray Jeskey to break. Jeskey declared his appreciation of public interest and thanked all of the applicants, expressing that he was impressed that four townspeople sent their letters to serve on the Adena advisory board.
After a bit of bewilderment and hearing both parties’ intentions to procure the position,
Jeskey paused before making his conclusion. "This is a tough decision," Jeskey uttered, "I don’t want any bad feelings to take place over my decision." Jeskey advised, "It is my responsibility to make a decision." "We have business to conduct due to lack of quorum." After careful review, he chose Jeff Masloski. He thanked Billie Stanwick saying he appreciated her decision to serve the community. Jeskey added that his reason for choosing Masloski was that Masloski was the first person to reveal his interest of the position. Masloski immediately took his oath of office from Mayor Jeskey replacing former councilman, Gary Dulkowski. Masloski mentioned that he has resided in Adena all of his life. "I’d like to see the town improving," he said, "I’ll do whatever it takes." The public applauded Masloski as he occupied the vacancy to secure the seat until it’s expiration in November 2007.
In building business, Councilman R.J. Konkoleski reported that the paperwork was submitted for the community building. He said, "There will be a meeting called to walk us through the bidding process with the State agencies that are involved in the funding and it will take roughly three weeks." Konkoleski announced that the Adena Lions Club donated $250.00 to the Building Fund. Lois Konkoleski reported that $3000.00 was received from the Adena High School Alumni.
Gary Dulkowski established that he enclosed information from an environmental agency regarding testing for mold contamination in the Community Building. Shirley Bednarski spoke saying, "I checked with two health departments and they said that we can do our own testing for mold." Said Shirley, "For eight dollars and forty-two cents we can get our own kit." Council voted to buy the mold test kit and if the test proves problematic they’ll consider other alternatives.
Disputation developed relative to the village offices being housed in either the Community Building or Bedway Coal Office building. The Mayor said that both buildings are in dire need of work. He reported that he’s eyeing the efficiency of costs and is not ruling out utilizing the Bedway Building for village offices. Council confirmed a vote for the purchase of a conference table and chairs costing $200.00. A Building Committee meeting is set for Tues., Oct. 3rd at 7:30 p.m.
Councilman R. J. Konkoleski critiqued the creek project saying, " As far as the creek project goes, Nemo gave a 5-year and first year plan cost estimates Jefferson Co. EMA." "The total of the 5-year plan is just over $60,000.00 and that takes care of doing what needs to be done." He noted that the project would begin by the Sewer/Water plant area on lower East Main Street and continue through the creek to the Adena city line near Foxes Bottom including Blairmont Road. Konkoleski said, "The plan involves doing the major work over the first year and after that it just becomes some routine maintenance that wouldn’t be an annual expense." "His estimate for this year is $11,200.00," Konkoleski disclosed.
The Jefferson County Commissioners awarded Adena $10,000.00 for this particular project because the work permits are in place. Konkoleski said the money awarded to Adena is "due to the fact that we have gotten our permits and that we really tried to help ourselves such as, the increased taxes on our license plates." Konkoleski reported that Greg Nemeth of Nemo’s Excavating "would like to come for a special meeting and go over his 5-year plan and what he’d like to do." He voiced his confidence in dealing with Nemo’s Excavating saying, "They have a good plan outline." He suggested that the remaining $1200.00 be taken from the village treasury to put the plan in place. Council unanimously voted to pay the remaining $1200.00 from the Street Fund to begin Phase 1 of the creek project.
In Police matters, David Darago resigned as Chief of Police on September 21st due to Police Department funding and the demands his position with the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office. Financially the Police Fund remains in the red. The public put forth several complaints of careless use of four-wheeler and golf carts. Curfew was also clarified. Present in the public was Paul Smith from the Belmont County Sheriff’s Department. He spoke out urging council to correct implementation in management of the Adena Police Department. Resumes are being accepted to hire an Adena Police Chief and should be sent to Mayor Ray Jeskey, PO Box 507, Adena, OH 43901. Review of the resumes and choosing of the Chief will be come to pass at council’s next regular meeting, October 10th.
Adena arranged Trick or Treat for Halloween, October 31st from 5:00-7:00 p.m. Adena Village Acquires Property-[August 2006]
Jim Horton presided throughout the Adena Village Council meeting August 8th administering his duty as President Pro Tempore. The Mayor and two council members were absent and voted excused for the regular meeting. Horton announced that he wished to execute his right to vote according to the Ohio Revised Code 731.10 which cites that the "President pro-tempore may vote upon measures coming before Council while he is presiding in the absence of the Mayor." As the meeting progressed council's voting remained unanimous.
The meeting opened with consideration of adopting Emergency Resolution 2006M Providing for Acquisition of Real Estate and Preservation of Grant Funds. In an ongoing negotiation between council and the Toni Bedway family, the properties will cost the village a total sum of $35,000.00, with the first installment of $25,000.00 due September 3, 2006. Jim Horton read the Resolution aloud to the public containing nine sections and Exhibit attachments. The Resolution described tracts of real estate that were referred as Exhibit B-1, B-2 and B-3. Section three of the resolution states that it is the intention of the Bedway family to make the gift of these properties directly to the Village to be administered as the Mayor and Council deem fit. The Bedway family shall have imput and be give due consideration relevant to an appropriate dedication for the property recognized as the "Village Green" as and for the purposes of a memorial and/or dedication site. Section five states that it shall serve to abolish any and all prior agreements or arrangements by and between the Bedway family which does or may apply to any of the subject properties as well as Bedway Park or any other property owned or formerly owned by the Bedway Family. Agreements and stipulations for the land transaction(s) included some charitable gifts, and abolish all past agreements, preserving current waterways to be purchased in the condition, "as is." Property inclusions mentioned in the Resolution were that of Bedway Park, the village green, land currently being used as the Adena Girls Softball field, and the Bedway Coal offices and garage. Section seven and eight mention properties known as the Bedway Coal Office and the garage building adjacent to the coal office. The motion carried in favor of the land purchases as described in Resolution 2006M.
In addition to the land acquisition, Council resolved to amend appropriations for 12/31/06. The following resolutions were unanimously approved:
2006G - To Amend Appropriations for the Fiscal Year ending 12-31-06.
2006H- To transfer money from the Sewer Fund to the Sewer Bond Fund,
2006I To transfer money from the Water Fund to the OWDA Fund,
2006J-To transfer money from the Water Fund to the Water Loan,
2006K-To transfer money from the Water Fund to the Water Bond Fund,
2006L-To transfer money from Mayor's Court to the Police Levy Fund.
On Adena's agenda complaints were also heard from village residents. Paul Carpenter voiced a problem in regards to dumping on private property. Marie Morgan spoke about apparent problems of property matters. Martin McKim disputed private property pavement on Shield's Lane. He questioned the village solicitor, Mike Shaheen about the survey saying, "You're putting the road on private property. How can you claim it?" Mike Shaheen responded saying; " If the survey needs straightened out that's fine, it's really not a source of controversy." Shaheen
clarified that the property was subject to right of way and it was paved within the boundaries of right of way.
McKim also presented a previous problem regarding parking on Shields Lane. Arrangements regarding parking on McLaughlin Street was also argued. The parking perplexity was directed to the Adena Police Department.
The Police attended to a total of 21 incidents. They were: 4 traffic stops, 1 arrest, 1 grass complaint, 3 general complaints, 1 welfare check, 1 dog complaint, 2 parking complaints, 2 general assists, 1 medical assist, 1 domestic violence assault, 2 children's services investigations, and 2 juvenile complaints. Chief David Darago reiterated to council that part-time police patrol could be problematic in handling every complaint.
Street commissioner David Yanok was praised for his perseverance of lawn and street care prior to Adena Heritage Days. As part of the street report, a unanimous decision was voted to immediately pay Zeroski's Excavating for extensive roadwork and brick road restoration. Favorable comments were enthusiastically exchanged for their loyalty and tenacity to the Adena Village.
Unfinished business brought forth a report from councilman R. J. Konkoleski who announced "Jefferson County EMA applied to the Jefferson County Commissioners for funding to remove sediments and debris in Adena area creeks." He said, "As of right now, Adena is the only community to have the permits to have work completed. "
He claimed that $10,000.00 has been given to Jefferson County EMA. Jefferson County EMA hired Nemo's Excavating for the county's contractual projects. Konkoleski claimed to have met with Greg Nemeth and walked, viewed, and photographed areas in need of work. Nemeth submitted to EMA a 5-year flood mitigation plan for both branches of Adena creeks. Although $10,000 will not cover the job, Konkoleski proposed a plan saying. "In year one, we're going to try to do the first step of that process with that money and hopefully go back again to the commissioners and hopefully use some permissive money and over time get things where they need to be and then it's just a matter of maintenance." Konkoleski referred to the creek problem as not being a situation of just getting a job done, he stressed the importance of a 5-year plan of maintenance.
New business noted that Bobbie Gaffney would be resigning as Clerk Treasurer for the Village. She extended her thanks to the Mayor, BPA, the Adena Village Council and employees for the plaque she was presented with at Heritage Day. Jim Horton announced that councilman Gary Dulkowski has been appointed as Clerk-Treasurer and applications would be taken for the open council seat next meeting. He clarified that a Letter Of Intent will be required for decision at council's next session scheduled for Sept. 12th.
Park Board Abolished, [April 2006]-After a half-hour debate in executive session, Adena council voted in favor of eliminating the Park Board at May 9th's meeting.
The Park Board, instituted thirty years ago in 1976 was established under Resolution 76-C Whereas under section of 755.19 - 755.37 Ohio Revised Code provided the members of the Board of Park Trustees with statutory duties and responsibilities to the village of management, control, and administration of the property owned by the village for park purposes.
James Sliva, who served as Mayor in 1976, appointed four electors of the village to that board to serve under the requirements of the above ORC codes. The fifth member was a member of the Bedway family under verbal agreement and in appreciation for money and work the family made to provide parks for the Adena Village. The original Park Board of Trustees appointed in 1975 was as follows: Nancy Bedway, Edward Bernosky, Chester Masloski, Jr., Walter Goga and John Luber.
At May's meeting, Village Council adopted Resolution 2006-E that repeals Resolution 76-C that previously established the Park Board. In verbatim it states that Whereas, circumstances have now changed in that the village, through its Council, believes it is in the best interest of the Village, and its residents to assume all responsibilities for the management control and administration of property owned by the Village and used or intended for Park purposes. Section 1 stipulates that effective immediately the Board of Park Trustees is hereby abolished.
Section 2 states that all members shall immediately be relieved of all duties associated with his/her former appointment as a trustee. The village shall immediately be responsible for the management, control, and administration of any and all properties owned by the Village and used and/or attended for use as and/or for park purposes.
Section 3 resolves that any and all funds held on deposit by and/or on behalf of the Board of Park Trustees shall be assumed and managed by the Village, as is the standard procedure under general budgetary requirements applicable to the Village.
On the Agenda, resident's suggestions were heard regarding road paving on Shields Lane. Road paving will proceed and is paid for from Issue 2 levy funds. Correspondence conveyed that J & J Refuse customers will have spring curbside clean up on Thursday, May 18th.
Confusing Consequences Conform at Adena Conference
June McKim who serves as secretary of the Park Board announced to the cabinet that she applied for piggyback tax money acting on behalf of the Park Board. Apparently at a February finance meeting, it was assumed that members of council and the Park/Recreation Committee were to discuss piggyback tax topics at council's regular conference. During the session, the board was baffled as to why the Park Committee took action without first meeting with council as verbally agreed. There was also question of McKim's re- appointment to the Park Board. The park board answered that they misunderstood the result of the finance meeting and due to the deadline they submitted the application. McKim spoke saying; "The Park Board under previous administration has always applied for piggyback tax money." Shirley Bednarski who applied for the money on behalf of council in 2005 tried to explain that an elected village official must properly submit requests of money for the village that include cost projection estimates. Bednarski said, "You applied for the funding last year, and I did it again and when I went to see the Commissioners, they asked me, What's going on in Adena?"
Conversation between the Park Committee and Council intensified. Councilman R. J. Konkoleski said, "We're an embarrassment of the county! The Park Board doesn't have the authority to ask for funding." Mayor Ray Jeskey intervened saying, "I thought it was understood that the Park Board was supposed to come to this meeting with your projects in mind." Jeskey recalled instances in the past in which the Park Board succeeded in obtaining piggyback money despite serving as village council officials.
Finance chairman Jim Horton said "We met with you in February and told you to bring your proposals to the meeting. I am not happy right now." Horton heralded that the Park Board went beyond their authority to obtain the funds. Council continued to clarify that village council foregoes the funding. The Park Board failed to provide Council with written estimates, minutes of committee meetings, and copies of the letter(s) of request for funding sought through Jefferson County. Mayor Jeskey gaveled the gathering to obtain meeting order and compose the conversations.
June McKim apologized saying, "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to cause a whole bunch of problems here. I typed the letter and sent it out, because I was under the impression it was the responsibility of the Park Board."
Councilman Gary Dulkowski referred to the Records of Proceedings of November 16, 2005, which states that the Park Board will submit to Council all applications for grants before applying for funding. Solicitor Mike Shaheen announced, "What we don't want is for nobody to get the money." Shaheen advised that there is time remaining for council to rescind the first request and urged that an agreement should be reached between both parties. Councilwoman Shirley Bednarski offered to deliver the Piggyback funds request to the Jefferson County commissioners. The dispute seemed to dissipate during the 2-½ hour session and the Park Board agreed that they would rescind the application. Council unanimously voted that the Park Board would receive sixty-percent of the piggyback funds.
In financial consequence, Councilman Jim Horton offered a proposal suggesting the hire of seasonal help to cut the grass of all village property including the parks, which would reduce costs of the Park Board. He explained that it would assist Street Supervisor, Dave Yanok thus saving the Park Board expenses of approximately $2000.00. Park Board member Harry Thompson spoke saying that Ed Bernosky is under contract with them. Bobbie Gaffney, Clerk Treasurer, confirmed that the village employs Ed. She said the job would be offered to Ed. Jim Horton justified that the village was trying to cut costs for the Park Board. Thompson declined the proposal on behalf of the board saying,
"We would have to have control."
Councilwoman Nancy Malin procured estimates of damage to the gazebo on the village green. She reported several options to council and after discussion, a motion carried to purchase a new gazebo and repair the other.
Votes were made to affirm the installation of a catch basin on McLaughlin Street.
Ordinances 2006-1 a Special Purpose for Damage Reduction and 2006-B Budget Appropriations were unanimously approved. The next public meeting is scheduled for April 11th at 6:30 p.m.
Adena Mayor Assigns Committees of Council-[Jan, 2006;] In Adena, it has been mayoral procedure that the Mayor assigns the committees of council annually, commonly at the January's regular session. Mayor Ray Jeskey, distributed copies of the committees of council. Included with the committees' list, Jeskey stressed the importance that all Committees are required to report to council in the order of business at monthly meetings. He wrote that all committee meetings are to be prearranged and publicly advertised in accordance to the Ohio Sunshine Laws. He implored that he and all council members should be notified of all committee meetings.
Jeskey omitted the Street and Police committees of years past. "The reason for this," Jeskey responded "is that the Street Supervisor and Police are employees of the village." Jeskey pointed out both the Street and Police departments submit written reports to council at monthly meetings. At the session, Council unanimously voted Jim Horton as Council President Pro-Tempore. Horton will serve as president in the mayor's absence and chair the Finance Planning and Funding committee that oversees funding of village projects. R. J. Konkoleski was appointed to chair the Health, Safety, and Sanitation Committee. Shirley Bednarski will serve as chairwoman of the Building and Public Properties committee that excludes parks. In addition to the Park Board, Jeskey included public Recreation as part of the Park Board Committee. Jeskey is also taking part of the Records Committee that maintains order of all public records and documents.
On the agenda, Harrison County Commissioner Phil Madzia was present reporting that there is more than six million dollars in the Clean Ohio Trail Fund annually. He said that Harrison County is donating land where bike and pedestrian trails would be laid and that it's possible that the county could meet 25 percent local match. Chris Copeland, executive director of the Harrison County Community Improvement Corporation, spoke about railroad property and stated that the Commissioners have inquired about funding to build the trails throughout Harrison County that would include parts of Adena. He presented a resolution of support the plan.
Other complaints were heard regarding police protection in Adena and ATV allowance on public streets and roads. Police Chief David Darago said that the department will do their best and said that the police are on call 24/7. Reports were distributed documenting one DUI, seventy traffic stops, one hit-skip, six assists, two medical assists, one fire assist, one attempted b&e and one general complaint. The next public meeting is scheduled for February 14th.
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Several conflicting viewpoints were articulated at the Adena public meeting that was held in Community Center March 29th.
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