Oak Harbor Village Council says projects going as expected

By Rachel Smith

Staff Reporter

On its June 2nd meeting, Oak Harbor's Village Council had a few visitors. First, Lauren Moore gave an update on the downtown revitalization project. A Cut Apart is now done and waiting for reimbursement. "The project is going as smooth as can be expected," she said.

Second to speak was Kathy Cochran, chairman of the Independence Day Celebration. She told the council that the celebration is scheduled for July 5th with a rain date of July 6th. The location is the same as previous years with festivities beginning at 4pm. Mr. Liske added that Mill Street will be closed from 12:30 Saturday afternoon till 2 or 3am Sunday morning.

Third to speak was Riverview Industries representative, Michelle Ish. Riverview Industries is a workshop that helps people with disabilities find employment. Ish would like to encourage local businesses to considering hiring these applicants. "These people can contribute and participate in the community," said Ish.

The rest of the meeting entailed council business with Mr. Liske giving a report on the sewer line construction. Construction started at the water treatment plant. The plan is that construction won't be downtown till the Apple Festival. Some residents had voiced concerns about being able to get into their driveways. Mr. Liske stated that, "We're going to do the best we can."

The final topic discussed by the board concerned a personal policy. The current requirements for residency for a village employee are they must reside in the Benton Carroll Salem school district.

The Ohio legislature passed an act that made this requirement not allowed. The District Court of Appeals ruled that the act violated the constitutional provision for home rule in villages and cities. The matter has been sent to the Ohio Supreme Court. The village council discussed if they should change their policy or wait till the state makes a decision. It was decided that solicitor Ruffing give the subject consideration and come back to council with a recommendation.

The council went into executive session at 7:40 pm.