Hartville renews electric aggregation program

Hartville Village Council has agreed to renew the electric aggregation program. Following a presentation by Fritz Drake of Scioto Energy at the Feb. 23 meeting about current and projected pricing, council voted to renew the program with Dynegy at a price of $0.0922 per kilowatt-hour for a 25-month period. Councilmen Tim Hayden and Tom Hough voted no. Hayden, a former employee of an electric company, said he preferred a three-year period. Residents may leave the program without penalty if they wish.

In other business, Councilman James Sullivan reported that the Planning Commission would not meet in March, but a public hearing preceding the March 23 council meeting will review the commission’s recommendations to approve zoning changes on three outlots in the Industrial Park and a general plan review for a business property.

Street Commissioner Anthony Nichols presented his report. Councilman Chris Ramsburg thanked him for the street department’s work.

Village Engineer Samer Awadallah presented his report.

Following the Personnel Committee’s report on personal and sick days, council engaged in discussion that included Police Chief Kevin Moore.

Following the Finance Committee’s report on renewal of employees’ health insurance, council also engaged in discussion.

Council heard the first reading of a resolution authorizing the mayor to enter into an agreement with Varney, Fink & Associates to act as village fiscal officer.

Councilman Tim Hayden reported on the status of the strategic plan.

Jeff Finefrock, a board member of Hammer & Nails, a faith-based mission that assists homeowners with repairs, maintenance and safety, addressed council about the organization’s services and offered to work with the village.

Steve Tharp addressed council about the recycling operation.

Following the business meeting, council recessed to executive session to discuss personnel matters. No action was taken.

The next regular meeting of Hartville Village Council will be held in person Monday, March 9, at 6:30 p.m. at Village Hall, 202 W. Maple St. The meeting also will be livestreamed on Facebook. Meetings may be viewed on the videos page of the village’s Facebook page.