BUCYRUS, OH (CRAWFORD COUNTY NOW)—During Tuesday’s Bucyrus City Council meeting, Councilwoman Vicki Dishon decided to table her motion to repeal the city ordinance mandating at least six employees on duty at the fire department.
Dishon acknowledged a procedural error, admitting that the motion lacked a second to proceed, resulting in its demise.
The motion to repeal the ordinance will be put on hold until the administration and fire department representatives have the opportunity to convene and explore potential money-saving alternatives.
Bucyrus resident Greg White cautioned the Council about the importance of careful consideration when it comes to fire and EMS services.
White addressed the Council, highlighting concerns about the proper procedure for calling a vote on the matter and questioning past decisions regarding EMS contracts and manpower ordinances. White said he did not understand how Council could approve ambulance contracts with townships all the while planning to cut Fire and EMS staff.
He raised issues regarding the logistical challenges of emergency services, particularly in scenarios like Heart Stent Transport, emphasizing the need for adequate personnel for efficient, potentially lifesaving responses.
While Dishon withdrew her motion for the time being, she noted that recent training had informed her of the option to second her own motion and break a tie with her vote as the Health and Safety Committee Chairperson.
In the interest of transparency, she wanted to be clear about the procedural error for the citizens of Bucyrus.
Additionally, Bucyrus resident Jacqueline Vannick urged the Council to consider zoning changes that would facilitate small businesses operating from their owned properties.
Vannick emphasized the financial challenges small business owners face and the potential benefits of allowing home-based businesses, especially for single mothers. The Council referred Vannick’s suggestions to the Platting Committee for further evaluation.
In response to various community concerns, an AD-HOC Property Maintenance Committee was established, comprising of members of the City Council, the Zoning Appeals Board, and residents including Richard Burton, Bill Stuckert, Jarred Miller, Greg White, Ken Long, Ray Thitoff, and Carolyn Shireman. This committee aims to address property maintenance issues within the city of Bucyrus.