Bolivar council weighs Jeep Club request, OKs 2026 Mack truck

Bolivar council heard a request Oct. 2 from the Jeepers Creepers 4x4 Club to use the former Tuscarawas Valley Intermediate School property on Park Street, owned by the village, to host a Trunk or Treat event. Village Solicitor Stephan Babik said the village must consider liability issues if a large crowd is allowed on village-owned land. It was noted the Jeep Club is a local organization and plans to host activities at another location in the village.

Mayor Robert Lloyd reported that he and Zoning Inspector Michaela Huth are reviewing zoning violations and plan to address cleanup needs throughout the community.

In other business:

– Officials reminded residents that the emergency warning siren is tested monthly on the first Monday at noon.

– Council approved $200 candy purchases each for the police department and Lion’s Club to distribute during Trick-or-Treat.

– Leaf collection will begin Oct. 13, and residents are advised not to pile leaves near mailboxes, vehicles or other obstacles. Basketball hoops should also be removed from roadways and alleys.

– Council passed a resolution amending the 2025 annual permanent appropriations and held the first reading of a resolution renewing the legal services contract with Babik, LLC.

– A first reading was also held on an agreement with the Tuscarawas County Public Defender Commission for indigent defense services.

– Council passed an ordinance implementing new policies on noxious weeds and litter.

– The first reading was held on an ordinance contracting Fitzpatrick, Zimmerman and Rose Co. L.P.A. as police prosecutors beginning Jan. 1, 2026, with a set rate of compensation.

Council also heard a complaint that the former intermediate school is too dark for student bus pickup, and one suggestion was to hire a crossing guard. 

Bolivar Fire Department member Matt Seward updated council on the proposed sale of excess property behind the fire station, which has been approved by the fire board but is awaiting village approval. 

Council voted to purchase a 2026 Mack truck for the street department at a cost of $172,673. Internet service at the municipal building has been consolidated with the police account for an annual savings of $1,440, and Police Chief Chad Hilty reported that a new firewall installation will save an additional $550 annually.

Community updates included the following:

– Trick-or-Treat will take place Oct. 31 from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Residents are asked to turn on porch lights and ensure children are accompanied by adults.

– Council reminded pet owners to clean up after their dogs, since waste creates issues for employees operating the leaf vacuum.

– Temporary signs will be allowed in the village during the Ohio and Erie Canalway Coalition’s annual Bike, Hike and Brew Oct. 11 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., although signs cannot be placed in curb strips or attached to poles and trees.

– Plans for Christmas on the Canal were also discussed, with the event set for Nov. 8 from 3-6 p.m. on Canal Street featuring a parade, children’s activities, refreshments and a visit from Santa Claus. Council agreed to alternate bicentennial banners with Christmas banners this year rather than purchase new holiday decorations.

Police reported 51 calls for service in the past month, including 12 traffic stops and four citations.

The next meeting will be held at 7 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 6, at 121 Canal St. SE, Bolivar.