Cochran to retire after 45 years serving village

At the Dec. 5 meeting of Port Washington Village Council, Mayor Tom Gardner introduced attorney Mark Perlaky as a candidate to replace current village solicitor Michael Cochran. Cochran will retire Dec. 31 after serving 45 years for the village and was honored by Gardner with a commemorative plaque.

Council voted to hire Perlaky for two years at a salary of $500 per month, plus an hourly rate of $85 if prosecutorial services are needed. Perlaky is currently Newcomerstown’s solicitor and a Guernsey County prosecutor.

Public comments

Village resident Mike Conaway asked Gardner about the mayor’s meeting on Dec. 19, which necessitates rescheduling the usual council meeting to Dec. 28. Gardner said Tuscarawas County mayors hold a monthly meeting, with each mayor taking a turn to host. He said after the mayor’s meeting in Village Hall, the group will tour the Historical Society building.

Conaway also asked whether the village has a policy or plan regarding the new Ohio law on recreational marijuana use. Cochran said the village will have to follow the state regulations. However, he said the village did have an ordinance banning marijuana dispensaries in the village.

Reports to council

Gardner presented a quote from Cornerstone Electric of $11,250 for a battery backup system for the traffic light at the square on Main Street. Gardner said the battery backup would keep the traffic light functioning at all times including during a power outage. Council voted to have Gardner search for grant funding to cover the expense.

Village patrolman Brandon Bishop reported the police department computer is not working properly. He also said Halls Inc. will service the body cameras and dashboard camera as none are currently operational.

Council approved the expense of having the computer and cameras repaired and authorized purchasing a new computer and new cameras if repairs are not possible or if the cost of repair is excessive.

Council President Joe Bourne thanked the voters for passing the tax levies that were on the November ballot. He also expressed gratitude to the volunteers who installed Christmas lights in the village and issued a reminder that Santa will be at the fire station on Dec. 17 from 5-7 p.m.

Council member Nate Penrod, who has been adamant about resolving the safety hazard at the traffic light on the square, thanked council and the mayor for resolving the issue.

Council member Brandie Bourne reported having spent approximately $500 for replacement bulbs and other supplies for the Christmas streetlights and flags.

DJ Meek, mayor’s assistant, reported the breakers need to be repaired or changed at the square on Main Street. Council approved the expense.

Firefighters needed

Joe Bourne said the Delaware Fire Department is looking for additional firefighters. He said the department currently has 11 volunteers, but more are needed.

CPR/AED class

Brandie Bourne provided an update on a plan to offer a CPR/AED class at the fire station. An incorrect cost of $17 per person was given, but she said the cost is actually $35. Penrod will donate the cost for residents who wish to attend.

A Good Samaritan class for those who do not require or desire a certification also could be held at no charge. A date for the class will be announced in the near future. Residents interested in attending should call the fire department at 740-498-6576.

Oaths administered

Before adjourning, Cochran administered the oath of office to Gardner for a new term, effective Jan. 1. Additionally, Steve Adams and Joe Bourne were sworn in as elected council members, effective Jan. 1.

The next council meeting will be held Dec. 28 at 7 p.m. at Village Hall, after which meetings will return to the normal schedule of the first and third Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. in Village Hall. All meetings are open to the public.