Cadiz Council discusses various community matters

Cadiz Village Council convened Thursday, March 21, for their semi-monthly meeting led by Council President John Vermillion, Jr. The meeting saw routine proceedings, including the approval of previous meeting minutes and discussions of ongoing business. Among the topics discussed was the approval of a youth baseball tag day scheduled for May 25. Additionally, council addressed the need for additional parking at the baseball fields, particularly in preparation for an upcoming T-ball tournament.

Community members Darren and Ariel Abel, accompanied by their business partner Melvin Weaver, approached council seeking assistance in demolishing dilapidated buildings on their properties. They intend to utilize a grant secured by the village for this purpose and aim to construct homes for community members in need of housing. Council responded by allocating funds to aid in such cases, citing the success of similar initiatives in enhancing the city’s appearance and creating opportunities for new residents and businesses. Council recognized the success of previous demolition projects funded by grants, emphasizing their positive impact on the city and Harrison County. With 37 demolitions planned for the county, council approved funds to support the endeavor.

Village Administrator Brandon Ludwig provided updates on upcoming events at Sally Buffalo, including a summer concert series, children’s activities, carnivals, fishing tournaments, and 4th of July festivities. Notably, council adjusted concert dates to Friday and Sunday to avoid conflicting with Queen of Hearts at Brightside Tavern in Jewett. The first concert on June 7 will feature performances by Emerson Drive, Love & Theft, and Isaac Cole.

Council member Eric Miller presented the street report, highlighting efforts to address water runoff issues and the restoration of the pump station at Sally Buffalo. Progress on the construction of a Dollar Tree store was noted, with expectations for a summer opening.

Councilman Derek Sefsick reported on youth and recreation matters, including the successful start of Bingo events. Sefsick mentions that a camper came to the park board meeting to kindly ask if they would be able to place a cross inside the park near the spring. The camper wants to pay to have a church make it, then it would be donated to the park. The park board did approve for the question to be brought in front of council, and council made a motion to approve the donation. Council also announced the completion of the playground in the new recreational area, needing just a few minor fixes before it is ready for public use. The courts at the new recreational area will also be built this summer. Safety considerations for campers and residents were discussed, including updates to walking trails and parking facilities.

Council talked about new parking signs coming to uptown; they’re adding more handicap signs and 10-minute parking signs. Council’s hope is to make parking readily available for those popping in and out of businesses in uptown, and to lessen the amount of congestion in the area. In the new primary election year, Council has decided that fiscal officer is a position they would like to appoint and no longer elect, since said individual is an employee of the village. Council has made a decision to no longer move forward with Amy Ossman and to appoint Rachel Morrison as the new fiscal officer starting April 1. Members of the community came to speak on behalf of Ossman and why they believe she is still the right person for the job. Council respectfully listened to what every person had to say, but their decision to move forward with a new fiscal officer did not waiver.

Throughout the meeting, council members engaged with community feedback and deliberated on decisions impacting the village’s future development. The collaborative efforts reflect a commitment to addressing community needs and fostering positive growth in Cadiz. As discussions continue, council remains dedicated to promoting transparency and inclusivity in its decision-making process, ensuring the well-being and prosperity of all residents.