Hopedale receives county guarantee for street project funding

Mayor Mike Pelegreen announced that he received a letter of guarantee of payment from the Harrison County Commissioners to cover costs if the village’s two Ohio Public Works Commission grant-loan applications are not approved.

Pelegreen said he also spoke with a representative from the Wheeling & Lake Erie Railroad regarding the West Main Street project, who suggested applying for Public Utilities Commission of Ohio grants to assist with funding. An advertisement will be placed in local newspapers to fill an open council seat for 2026.

In other business, Vickie Coffland appeared before council to provide an update on the annex building renovation. She presented a draft rental agreement for the village’s use and proposed rental rates, though she emphasized that Hopedale residents should be allowed free use of the facility. Village Solicitor Jenna Hokes will review the terms of the agreement.

The annex bathrooms will be upgraded with new sinks and toilets, and two portable air-conditioning units will be purchased along with a refrigerator, microwave, sweeper and cleaning supplies. The building is expected to open Dec. 1.

Council also announced that the village park is officially closed for the season and that skate ramps have been removed. A motion was approved to hire Tim Carlier as the street superintendent at a starting wage of $19 per hour, with an increase to $19.50 after 90 days. Village trucks are now equipped for winter with snowplows and a salt spreader, and repairs to High Street have been completed following damage from a recent water main break.

A total of $2,300 was spent cleaning up two properties, including five lots owned by one individual. The costs will be added to the property owners’ taxes for reimbursement to the village.

Council also approved the purchase of a 2025 Ford pickup truck from Team Automotive at a cost of $67,654.