Bolivar Village Council hears updates on water tank cleaning, equipment purchases

Bolivar Village Council learned at its Aug. 7 meeting that a dive team will be on site Aug. 12 to clean two water tanks. The tanks are cleaned every three to five years, with the last cleaning in spring 2021. The cost will be $4,360 for both tanks, though the total may be lower if there is little sediment.

“I want to give a shout-out to the County Water and Sewer Department for mowing near the water tanks so access is easier,” Village Administrator Patty Smith said.

Following an executive session, council accepted the resignation of zoning inspector Matt Bailey, effective July 31, and approved a final payment of $800 instead of $1,000.

Council actions

— Heard questions from resident Chris Berens about leaf pickup and whether raises would result in the loss of composting and leaf vacuuming. Smith said nothing had been decided but noted the future of composting is uncertain because the village's compost grant with Lawrence Township is ending. Currently, leaves are taken to the township compost site.

— Approved a Taser package for police at a cost of $5,199, to be paid over five years, along with four police badges for $550, a Tahoe police cruiser base mount for $180, a computer mount for $450 and a power supply for $100.

— Renewed the firewall license for three years at a cost of $1,644.

— Agreed to test cell service with First Net before deciding whether to switch carriers.

— Approved occupational medicine new hire testing for police and fire as required by the Ohio Police and Fire Pension Fund at a cost of $2,091.

— Authorized payment of $295 for the police chief's membership in the Ohio Association of Chiefs of Police.

— Learned a pergola has arrived and is being stored until spring for installation at the park on Canal Street.

— Approved repairs to the leaf vacuum at a cost of $3,500 to $4,000.

— Learned Superior Paving has completed paving work in the village.

— Held the first reading of an ordinance repealing Ordinance 0-14-2025 on pay increases and establishing new salaries, hourly rates and benefits for certain positions.

— Passed an ordinance changing Strawberry Alley and Plains Alley from one-way to two-way traffic.

Other updates

— The flagpole at the former intermediate school has not been moved pending a decision on the property's status.

— This fall, crack sealing is scheduled for the downtown area.

— The street department is mowing, trimming and marking trees for winter trimming.

— Entered into a one-day contract with the Tuscarawas County Water and Sewer Department to clean storm sewer drains at a cost of $2,000.

— Fiscal officer Maria App praised the work of the police and street departments.

— Residents were reminded not to blow grass clippings into the street, as wet clippings can be hazardous to pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists.

The next council meeting is scheduled for 7 p.m. Sept. 4 at 121 Canal St. SE, Bolivar.