Scio discusses student volunteers, vacant building

Scio council discussed the possibility of bringing in volunteer workers from Harrison Central High School during a recent meeting.

Councilwoman Jeanne Edwards said a school official was receptive to informing students about volunteer opportunities in the village. Students are required to complete a certain number of community service hours to graduate, and Edwards said Scio could help provide those opportunities.

Possible projects could include painting fire hydrants, washing windows, cleaning gutters and sweeping streets.

“Anyway, again the enthusiasm is there,” Edwards told council. “We have a contact person. I think it’s something we just need to develop.”

Edwards said the village would provide items such as safety vests for students working near roads. She said the program could possibly begin earlier next year after the weather breaks or even in the fall.

Mayor James Clark said he also has spoken with the probation department about individuals who need to complete community service hours. He said he is waiting to hear back. Council members also discussed the need for supervision, particularly if minors are involved, and Clark said he would remain in contact with the appropriate agencies.

Council also revisited discussion about the former Neimayer building.

Councilman Doug Whiteman asked whether a demolition contract could be rebid. When the county’s possible involvement was mentioned, Clark said the county was no longer participating.

“That’s a mistake,” Village Administrator Jason Tubaugh said, without elaborating.

Clark said the village might need to reapply for the project, while Whiteman suggested either resubmitting it or exploring a land bank option. He said he had recently spoken with Commissioner Paul Prevot, who indicated a land bank program would be coming to the county.

Village Solicitor Jack Felgenhauer said the village could declare the structure dilapidated and require the owner to tear it down.

“If he doesn’t then you continue to fine him every day until he does,” Felgenhauer said.

Tubaugh said the village cannot simply ignore the issue because if the building were to collapse on either side, it would create a larger problem.

Clark asked Whiteman to keep council updated, and the discussion ended.