The West Liberty Council recently met and welcomed two new members. Mayor Brad Hudson first administered the Oath of Office to two returning members, Trent Spriggs and Jayne Griffith. Faced with a two-person shortage, the council hosted interested candidates.
The candidates were Alyssa Kauffman, James Burkhammer, Brenda Coy, Loretta Asbury, and Andrea Naegele. After introductions, the council voted to go into Executive Session to consider the candidates.
After the session ended, the council welcomed Asbury and Naegele. Mayor Hudson then administered the Oath of Office to the new council members.
Police Chief Shane Oelker asked Mayor Hudson to appoint Scott Curnette as a non-paid Auxiliary Police Officer.
The council voted to approve the payment of bills totalling $540,579.55.
In the legislative portion of the meeting, one ordinance was given its third and final reading:
- Ordinance 2025-16 – which would amend Village Ordinance 313.11 Designation of Stop Streets. Third and final reading, ordinance adopted.
Several ordinances and resolutions were given first readings:
- Ordinance 2026-01 – An ordinance to provide for the collection of the rates for water and sewer services within the Village. This would involve a 3% increase for rates per 1000 gallons.
- Ordinance 2026-02 – An ordinance to regulate the rates and allow the collection of fees for garbage/rubbish pick up and curbside recycling service within the Village. This would involve a 3% increase for trash rates only.
- Resolution 2026-R1 – To establish an unclaimed money fund. Motion to waive the three-reading rule was passed. Resolution adopted on first and final reading.
- Resolution 2026-R2 – To establish a fund for training reimbursements for police. Motion to waive the three-reading rule was passed. Resolution adopted on first and final reading.
Council member Griffith reported that the Macochee Joint Ambulance District had 1107 runs in 2025, up from 782 in 2024.
The Water Department received quotes for a new Well house and electrical work at Lions Park from Levi Reed and Rabenstein Electric, totaling $10,710.00. The council authorized the work to proceed.
The next meeting of the West Liberty Village Council will be Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at 7:00 PM.
Cindee Boyd contributed to this story.
