By Bob Strohm
bstrohm@wbcowqel.com
The New Washington Village Council will be looking to give recognition to organizations, businesses, and people who have helped make the community a better place.
New Washington Council approved of the idea Monday night for the recognitions to take place during the first New Washington Village Council meeting of the month. The brainchild of Mayor Ben Lash, the village council would accept nominations for the recognition, which would then be approved by council prior to the recognition taking place.
Village council approved the second reading on renewing the contract with ODOT for bridge inspections within the village.
Preparing for 2017, council approved the 2017 budget as well as the pay rates to village workers for the upcoming year.
A few electrical poles may be on the move within New Washington. During Norm Lucius’ report to council he noted that a representative from AEP had contacted him about moving the electric poles away from the park and residential houses in the area of the park and moving the poles to the railroad bed. Council reported to Lucius that they have no issue at the moment with the proposal from AEP, however they would like more information on the project before they begin.
Council approved Cliff Alt to remove brush from the brush pile for the cost of $1,200.
In Police Chief Jeff Shook’s report to council he noted that training has been completed on the year following the completion of Taser training. Shook added that the new ordinances along with all of the village’s ordinances are available to view at the village website at http://newwashington.us/.
Fire Chief Mark Heefner reported that the fire department has held two runs since the last meeting. Heefner also reported that he currently has one firefighter slated for training in January. The cost for the training session will be $425.
The New Washington Village Council discussed the placement of a light at the intersection of Franklin and Schwan streets. Council decided to view the intersection at night to see if the move would warrant a light.
New Washington Council will meet Tuesday, December 20 at 7 p.m. Council approved the adjustment due to the normal meeting date falling the day after Christmas.