A near-capacity Bellefontaine Council chambers witnessed a rare procedural issue when two previously tabled ordinances, one the much-discussed ‘Golf Cart ordinance,’ and the other, a sound amplification ordinance, died before the council due to no motions being made to pass either.
Ordinance 26-31, the ordinance that would allow golf carts and other low-speed vehicles to operate in the city, and 26-32, the ordinance that would restrict sound amplification devices, were tabled by the council in July to solicit input and research language for both pieces of legislation.
City Law Director Josh Stolly informed the council that Council Rule 11 mandated that any tabled ordinance must be brought back before the council after 30 days. Stolly said, to his knowledge, neither ordinance has come out of committee, so he recommended that both be allowed to die.
Stolly discusses the procedural action:
In his report, Mayor David Crissman said that the recent city department picnic was very well attended, and he hoped the event would continue, as it builds and fosters community among city employees who may not interact with other departments.
Service-Safety Director Wes Dodds read a prepared statement to begin his report. In it, he acknowledged that while the recent rainfall caught everyone unprepared, it doesn’t take away from the fact that a key pump station on Michigan Avenue failed, causing damage to several homes.
Dodds also said that other residents who have been affected by flooding should not feel that their needs are being ignored. He urged all residents who experienced flooding issues to go to the city website and report the damage. Doing so may enable residents to be eligible for any state or federal funds that may come to the city in the future.
Dodds also said that six firms submitted flood mitigation plans to the city. The plans are being evaluated, and one will be selected to partner with the city to devise a plan to ease future flooding.
City Auditor Fred Brentlinger reported to the council that the appropriations ordinance up for the council’s consideration is needed because of a miscommunication between his office and the Human Resources Department. The extra funds, approximately $305,000, are needed to address a shortfall in city employees’ health insurance payments.
Police Chief Chris Marlow said that the recent Chicken BBQ netted almost $10,000 that will benefit the department’s K-9 program. He also said that he was informed that a current lieutenant will be retiring after the first of the year. As a result, a test for the open position will be held in October. Chief Marlow also said he expects two long-awaited cruisers to arrive this week.
Several residents addressed the council during the Communication from Citizens portion of the meeting. The topics addressed ranged from proponents of golf carts, flooding concerns, the Detrick addition, and one resident spoke out against the city utilizing Flock technology. Several residents who spoke about flooding issues were grateful for the city’s response and SSD Dodds’ responsiveness.
Several ordinances and one resolution were considered by the council:
Resolutions
R26-39 – A resolution authorizing the extension of public sewer and city water lines and services outside the corporation line of the City of Bellefontaine to serve approximately 7.5 acres being a portion of a larger parcel owned by Heath S. Allen, trustee. Resolution adopted.
The property is adjacent to the city on State Route 540. The site will be used for a house of worship. The cost for the extension, if requested, will be paid by the landowner.
Ordinances for 1st Reading
26-37 – An ordinance making supplemental appropriations and amending the Permanent Appropriations ordinance for purposes of group insurance. Motion to pass on 1st reading only. Motion passed.
26-38 – An ordinance amending the pay rate for Mac-A-Cheek Learning Center Seasonal School Resource Officer. Law Director Stolly recommended the ordinance be allowed to die so adjustments could be made. No motion was made to pass on 1st reading. Ordinance died.
Ordinances for 2nd Reading
26-31 – An ordinance establishing Section 331.46 of the Codified Ordinances of the City of Bellefontaine, Ohio, authorizing low-speed, under-speed utility vehicles and mini-trucks within said city. No motion was made to pass on 2nd reading. Ordinance died.
26-32 – An ordinance amending and restating Section 509.11, Sound Amplifying Devices and Loud Noises, of the Codified Ordinances of the City of Bellefontaine, Ohio. No motion was made to pass on 2nd reading. Ordinance died.
Ordinances for 3rd Reading
26-34 – An ordinance pursuant to section 709.38 of the Ohio Revised Code approving and assenting to the detachment of certain territory owned by Logan County from the City of Bellefontaine, Ohio and declaring an emergency. Motion to pass on 3rd and final reading passed. Ordinance adopted.
